How Can Metaverses Develop Children?

The interaction of children and metaverses is being discussed in Europe – and, surprisingly, in a positive way. The European Parliamentary Research Service (EPRS) noted that digital worlds can not only entertain, but also develop.

The metaverse can reveal children's creativity, motivate them to learn, help treat diseases, and open up cultural and social experiences that are inaccessible in real life. For example, technology can help children with autism, overcome phobias, or improve social skills.

Virtual worlds are already capable of turning history or biology lessons into exciting journeys. Learning through immersion in virtual reality is becoming much more effective.

Metaverses open the way to physical activity – virtual sports can interest even those who do not like regular workouts.

But there are also risks – from social isolation and anxiety to unwanted communication and the danger of lack of supervision. Regulation of children's access to metaverses is still extremely weak: age restrictions depend on manufacturers, who constantly lower them for the sake of profit.

The EU is preparing for cautious regulation, perhaps following the example of the MiCA law for crypto assets. The main thing is to make sure that the virtual world really benefits children and is safe.

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