Tabletop RPGs are a fantastic activity for kids and teens; they build problem-solving skills and create space for friend groups to form organically. Finding the right game for your child, however, can be a challenge. Local game store events might not work with your schedule, and you might be too busy to run a regular game of your own. But fret not, for a new call to adventure is sounding: Young Heroes! 

Who Can Join Young Heroes? 

Children from ages 9-17 are welcome to play games on this new dedicated platform. Our hand-picked Game Masters offer different types of games suitable for each age group. Parents are also invited to play too!  

Parents will be able to find these games using StartPlaying’s tried-and-tested search tools to filter for things like game style, start times, and languages spoken by the Game Master. The GMs also bring their own specialties to the table, such as learn-to-play games for all ages, shorter sessions for younger players, or more action-packed offerings for teens. 

The search tool, while based on StartPlaying’s proven methods, exists separately from that of the main site. Games for kids, tweens and teens can only be found on Young Heroes, and likewise games for adults have no chance of showing up here. Only GMs who pass a very detailed application process can list games on Young Heroes.

Who Is Running Young Heroes Games?

StartPlaying Game Masters are already professional, vetted, and reviewed by users. Those who are chosen to run Young Heroes sessions are further tested to meet specific standards.

In order to even qualify for Young Heroes, a prospective GM must pass an 8-point background check. They must also bring at least 3 references from parents, guardians, or kids' program leaders stating that they are experienced and proficient at running kid’s games. Those asked for a reference are sent a private link so they can send their honest testimony directly to StartPlaying. 

Prospective Game Masters then need to take a faciliator's learning course about running games for young people and pass a assesment on those learnings.

StartPlaying is the only platform that has these safety measures, because we want to be the safest place for kids D&D games. 

How Are Young Heroes Kept Safe During Games? 

The primary concern for any kids program is safety. Young Heroes was built with safety in mind, as seen by the detailed process we use to screen GMs. Our safety tools don’t stop there, however. There are also several practices used to keep kids safe during games. 

First and foremost, the GM is on-camera the whole time. Total visibility, total accountability. Players must also keep their cameras on during the session so everyone knows who is present. 

Every game must use Zoom as it comes with a recording feature. These recordings are stored securely by StartPlaying and only accessed for internal review in the case of incidents. And of course, we have a wonderful support team available to help with questions and concerns. 

What Makes Young Heroes A Positive Activity For My Kid? 

The goal of playing games is to have fun, but we also want our kids to get more enrichment from their hobbies. Fortunately, TTRPGs have been shown to help people of all ages with core life aspects like mental health and building social groups. 

For adults, a survey showed that TTRPG play helps with stress relief, keeps friend groups meeting, and even creates quality time with romantic partners. For children, regular TTRPG sessions can boost confidence, create lasting friend groups, encourage reading, and even reduce the desire for solo screen time. Yes this is a form of screen time, but one that emphasizes socializing and problem solving. 

7 out of 10 parents of TTRPG-playing kids reported that their child got better at speaking up in group settings, while also saying that their ability to listen to others’ perspectives improved. A whopping 83% of those surveyed said that they’d recommend TTRPGs to other parents. With the right group of fellow kids, and under the direction of a professional GM, TTRPGs are a hobby that can help kids develop while having fun. 

There’s also benefits for parents as well! As mentioned before, Young Heroes welcomes parents to play so it can be quality family time. Or, if you need time to yourself, online games allow your child to play at home on your schedule. You can finally find time for all that housework while your kid engages in safe, social fun.

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Browse available Young Heroes games here! Whether you’re looking to start your child’s first quest or play as a family, you’re sure to find the game for you.