A Parent’s Guide to Minecraft

Minecraft is one of the most popular video games among kids. Both parents and kids like the endless creative possibilities Minecraft offers. The game challenges players to develop problem-solving skills, and engage their creativity.

What is Minecraft?

Minecraft was created by Markus “Notch” Persson in 2009 and is now owned by Microsoft. It is a “sandbox” adventure game, meaning players can roam and change the virtual world. In Minecraft, players explore a world of diverse biomes to gather resources like wood and stone, which they can use to craft tools, weapons, and buildings.

What age can you play Minecraft?

Minecraft is rated 7+, which means it’s best suited for children ages 7 and up. It is rated this way due to its level of difficulty, potential for mild violence, and online nature. The game has mild carton violence where players kill monsters or animals, which may not be suitable for younger players.

Which platform is Minecraft available on?

Minecraft is available on various platforms. They each have their own unique features but they generally all do the same things.

• Computer – Java & Bedrock Minecraft is available on Windows, Linus, and Mac OS X operating systems.
• Mobile – The Pocket Edition is available on most Android, iOS, Fire OS, Windows 8.1, and Windows devices.
• Console – Minecraft is available on PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, XBOX 360, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch,
• Pi Edition – Minecraft Pi Edition is available on Raspberry Pi computers and is a great way to introduce programming to new programmers.

Is Minecraft Safe for Kids?

Yes, Minecraft can be played very safely in single-player Creative mode. In Creative mode, players can build and create their own world without interacting with others. However, there are some potential risks when kids start to play with others online. While Minecraft servers are fairly safe and do a decent job moderating their chats, children may be exposed to inappropriate language or bullying. Even the safest online communities that are designed with kids in mind aren’t immune to online predators. The best way to keep kids safe is to create your own server and invite only people you know to play with you or join the server of someone else you know.

What are the different modes?

Minecraft has several different modes, including Survival mode, where players must gather resources, build shelter, and fend off monsters; Creative mode, where players have unlimited resources and can build anything they want; Adventure mode, where players can explore custom-made maps created by other players; and Spectator mode, where players can observe the game world without interacting with it.

What is a Minecraft Server?

A Minecraft server allows players to connect to and play together in a multiplayer Minecraft world. The server hosts the game, allowing players to join and interact with each other in real time. Players can join a public or private server. Public servers are open to anyone and private servers are restricted to a select group of players. Anyone can set up a server, however, it is a big responsibility for the host. Minecraft servers can be great places for players to build community and play with others with similar interests.

What are the benefits of playing Minecraft?

There are many benefits for children playing Minecraft. In fact, many schools use Minecraft as an educational tool to teach children about coding, STEM, and more.

Some of the benefits include:

• Develop Problem-Solving Skills – In Minecraft players must use specific tools to build and complete tasks. To create your own world you must learn to use the resources available to build shelter, gather food, and craft tools.
• Learn Coding – Minecraft uses a feature called, Command Blocks, which allows players to code the behavior of various elements. Minecraft education edition has a built-in feature called, “Code Builder”. Code Builder allows players to write code in either JavaScript or Python.
• Encourage Teamwork – Minecraft multiplayer encourages players to work together and compromise when building a world together.
• Fosters Creativity – Minecraft is a sandbox game that allows players to build their own worlds. They can be as creative and unique as the player wishes.
• Gives Confidence – Players feel a sense of accomplishment when they gather resources, build their world and make decisions about their world. In this virtual world, they are responsible for what they create and their decisions.