By Thabo Peyi

July 14th, 2025

3 min read

Fortnite and the Digital Playground: What Parents Should Know

Ever since Fortnite was released in 2017, it has taken the world by storm. From children to adults, it seemed as though everyone was enjoying the action-packed game from one-on-one battles to team matches, Fortnite offered an experience for all to enjoy. 

However, with such popularity came concern. The high-intensity gameplay and strong sense of community meant that Fortnite slowly began to consume people’s lives from late-night “just one more game” sessions to frequent interactions with strangers online. As a result, many parents began to worry about online safety, gaming addiction, and digital wellbeing. 

How Online Games Like Fortnite Work 

Online games like Fortnite are unique because they allow players to connect in real time with others around the world. Features such as live chat, voice communication, and multiplayer teaming create a fast-paced, highly social gaming environment. 

While this makes Fortnite fun and immersive, it also raises safety issues. Children may encounter: 

  • Cyberbullying 
  • Inappropriate content 
  • Addiction or excessive screen time 

Knowing how Fortnite works helps parents understand what their children are exposed to, both the good and the bad. 

 

Parental Controls in Fortnite: A Digital Safety Net 

Recognising these concerns, Fortnite has implemented a range of parental control tools to help families manage gameplay more responsibly. 

Here are some of the key parental control features: 

  • Restrict who your child can chat or play with 
  • Disable voice or text communication 
  • Set screen time limits 
  • Apply age-appropriate content filters 
  • Monitor and limit in-game purchases to avoid scams or overspending 

These tools help parents protect kids on Fortnite while still allowing them to enjoy the game in a safer, more controlled way. 

 

The Positive Side of Fortnite for Kids 

Despite its risks, Fortnite offers several benefits for child development, especially when used in moderation. The game can help kids: 

  • Improve teamwork and communication skills 
  • Develop problem-solving abilities 
  • Learn how to strategise under pressure 
  • Bond with friends and build online communities 

For children who may struggle socially in real life, Fortnite can serve as a safe, creative space for connection and self-expression. 

When guided by parents, Fortnite becomes more than a game, it becomes a platform for growth. 

 

Talking to Your Child About Online Safety and Etiquette 

One of the most powerful tools in digital parenting is open communication. 

Talk to your children about: 

  • The dangers of online predators, scams, and bullying 
  • What a digital footprint is and how their actions online have long-term consequences 
  • The importance of not sharing personal information 

By having honest, ongoing discussions about online gaming safety, you encourage kids to be more aware, responsible, and resilient. 

 

Conclusion: A Balanced Approach to Fortnite and Digital Play 

Fortnite, like many online games, is a double-edged sword. With the right knowledge, communication, and use of parental controls, parents can help their children stay safe while enjoying the benefits of gaming. 

Understanding how Fortnite works and having regular discussions about safety will ensure your child develops healthy gaming habits in the digital playground. 

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Fortnite and the Digital Playground: What Parents Should Know

Thabo Peyi

July 14th, 2025

3 min read

Ever since Fortnite was released in 2017, it has taken the world by storm. From children to adults, it seemed as though everyone was enjoying the action-packed game from one-on-one battles to team matches, Fortnite offered an experience for all to enjoy. 

However, with such popularity came concern. The high-intensity gameplay and strong sense of community meant that Fortnite slowly began to consume people’s lives from late-night “just one more game” sessions to frequent interactions with strangers online. As a result, many parents began to worry about online safety, gaming addiction, and digital wellbeing. 

 

How Online Games Like Fortnite Work 

Online games like Fortnite are unique because they allow players to connect in real time with others around the world. Features such as live chat, voice communication, and multiplayer teaming create a fast-paced, highly social gaming environment. 

While this makes Fortnite fun and immersive, it also raises safety issues. Children may encounter: 

  • Cyberbullying 
  • Inappropriate content 
  • Addiction or excessive screen time 

Knowing how Fortnite works helps parents understand what their children are exposed to, both the good and the bad. 

 

Parental Controls in Fortnite: A Digital Safety Net 

Recognising these concerns, Fortnite has implemented a range of parental control tools to help families manage gameplay more responsibly. 

Here are some of the key parental control features: 

  • Restrict who your child can chat or play with 
  • Disable voice or text communication 
  • Set screen time limits 
  • Apply age-appropriate content filters 
  • Monitor and limit in-game purchases to avoid scams or overspending 

These tools help parents protect kids on Fortnite while still allowing them to enjoy the game in a safer, more controlled way. 

 

The Positive Side of Fortnite for Kids 

Despite its risks, Fortnite offers several benefits for child development, especially when used in moderation. The game can help kids: 

  • Improve teamwork and communication skills 
  • Develop problem-solving abilities 
  • Learn how to strategise under pressure 
  • Bond with friends and build online communities 

For children who may struggle socially in real life, Fortnite can serve as a safe, creative space for connection and self-expression. 

When guided by parents, Fortnite becomes more than a game, it becomes a platform for growth. 

 

Talking to Your Child About Online Safety and Etiquette 

One of the most powerful tools in digital parenting is open communication. 

Talk to your children about: 

  • The dangers of online predators, scams, and bullying 
  • What a digital footprint is and how their actions online have long-term consequences 
  • The importance of not sharing personal information 

By having honest, ongoing discussions about online gaming safety, you encourage kids to be more aware, responsible, and resilient. 

 

Conclusion: A Balanced Approach to Fortnite and Digital Play 

Fortnite, like many online games, is a double-edged sword. With the right knowledge, communication, and use of parental controls, parents can help their children stay safe while enjoying the benefits of gaming. 

Understanding how Fortnite works and having regular discussions about safety will ensure your child develops healthy gaming habits in the digital playground.