Invented in 2006, Roblox is a virtual platform that allows kids to explore and play user-created games. It’s popular with kids and teens and used by schools, camps and Girl Scout troops to teach coding and game design. It’s also a way for kids to socialize with their friends online and to let their imaginations run wild with digital hide and seek or virtual restaurant simulations.

The platform is available for computers, mobile devices and Xbox One consoles and has a huge catalog of games to choose from. It’s free to join, but the platform requires a network connection to function (it works best over Wi-Fi). Players can choose from millions of game creations or become a creator themselves. They can also customize their avatar, with tons of hats, faces and gear to express their personalities and interests.

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While the platform is considered safe for children, it’s important to keep in mind that kids can encounter adult content, including simulated sex acts and inappropriate language, in games they play or chat rooms they visit. It’s also a good idea to monitor how much time kids are spending playing.

Parents can set daily screen-time limits, view their child’s friends list and adjust communication settings and content access remotely with the Account Restrictions feature. They can also encourage open communication with their kids about safety and help them report any suspicious activity. They should also make sure their kids are using a private network and only play in supervised spaces where they can see them.