#United States #Columbus #Youth Gambling #Change The Game Ohio #responsible gifting

Encouraging Thoughtful Gifting: Change the Game Ohio's Holiday Message

As the holiday shopping season approaches, Change the Game Ohio is making a compelling appeal to parents and caregivers: to be more thoughtful about the gifts they choose for their children and teens. New research highlights alarming trends in youth gambling that cannot be overlooked. A recent national study from Rutgers University's Center for Gambling Studies revealed that nearly 43% of U.S. teens aged 13 to 17 engaged in gambling activities in the past year. Among them, an unsettling 10.8% were identified as being at high risk for developing gambling problems.

The findings raise a crucial question for parents: what gifts are being placed under the tree this year? While seemingly innocent items like lottery tickets or scratch-off cards might appear as fun stocking stuffers, they carry unintended risks that most parents might not acknowledge. Derek Longmeier, the executive director of the Problem Gambling Network of Ohio (PGNO), emphasizes the importance of awareness, stating, "Parents and caregivers may not always recognize how certain gifts can introduce young people to gambling or gambling-like behaviors."

The Rutgers survey analyzed a wide range of gambling activities, well beyond traditional options. Youth gambling now includes sports betting, esports betting, cryptocurrency trading, and prediction markets—activities that are increasingly accessible on digital platforms and through video games. Longmeier remarks, "With gambling taking new forms and reaching young people in many ways, being intentional about what we put under the tree is one simple way to support healthier choices."

To assist families in navigating gift choices this holiday season, Ohio's Youth Gambling Prevention Guide recommends alternatives that foster creativity and genuine interaction, steering clear of items that can encourage gambling behaviors. Some thoughtful gift ideas include:

• - Board games and puzzles: These can provide hours of fun while avoiding the gambling association. Fun and strategic, these gifts promote bonding time among family and friends.
• - Experiences: Opt for tickets to sporting events, movies, or museum outings that offer adventure and learning experiences rather than material possessions.
• - Books and educational kits: Inspire a love for reading and learning with books that expand their horizons or educational activities that are both fun and enriching.

Change the Game Ohio resources are available for families seeking guidance about starting discussions around gambling, as well as tools for parents to better understand the ramifications of gambling culture and its risks. For further assistance, check out pausebeforeyouplay.org/news-events/.

In this season of giving, let us all take a minute to prioritize the well-being of our youth by making informed gift choices this holiday. With vigilance and care, we can ensure a festive time that nurtures growth, creativity, and healthy habits—all while shielding them from the potential pitfalls that gifts promoting gambling may bring. Together, let’s make this holiday season brighter and safer for our children.