Roblox & Minecraft: What Parents Should Know

A message from the Director of Swift Nature Camp

I want to start by being clear — I am not a technology expert. I am a camp director, and my role has always been to help keep kids safe, supported, and growing while they are in our care.

At Swift Nature Camp, we work hard to create a safe environment during the summer. But as parents and caregivers, we all know that our responsibility to protect children doesn’t stop at camp or school. It extends into everyday life — offline and online.

That’s why I wanted to share some important information about Roblox and Minecraft, based on what child safety and digital wellness experts recommend 
Why This Matters

Roblox and Minecraft are often described as “games,” but experts remind us that they are also online social spaces. Children can interact, chat, and connect with people they don’t know — sometimes without fully understanding the risks.

Experts consistently say that awareness, supervision, and conversation are key to keeping kids safe in these environments.

How Minecraft and Roblox Are Different

While these platforms are often mentioned together, experts point out that they function very differently.

Minecraft

• Focuses on creativity and building

• Often played solo or with known friends

• Easier for parents to manage and supervise

• Social interaction is usually limited and intentional

Many experts view Minecraft as lower risk, especially when children play in private or family-managed worlds.

Roblox

• Functions as a large online social platform

• Includes millions of user-created games

• Allows in-game chat with people children may not know

• Moderation varies depending on the game

Experts note that Roblox requires more active parental involvement, particularly for younger children

Why Parental Controls Alone Aren’t Enough

Experts are clear that parental controls and filters are helpful tools — but they are not a complete solution.

According to child safety specialists:

• Filters can reduce exposure but won’t catch everything

• Children may find ways around settings as they grow

• No automated system replaces adult involvement

Just as we rely on multiple layers of supervision at camp, experts recommend a layered approach to online safety at home

What Experts Recommend Parents Do

Child development and online safety experts consistently suggest the following steps:

• Learn how the platforms your child uses actually work

• Keep gaming devices in shared family spaces

• Limit or disable chat features when appropriate

• Talk regularly with your child about what they see and experience

• Teach children never to share personal information

• Encourage kids to come to you if something feels uncomfortable

Experts emphasize that ongoing conversation is more effective than strict rules alone.

A Camp Perspective

At camp, we help children practice skills that last beyond the summer — communication, trust, and decision-making. Those same skills matter online.

While I don’t claim to be an expert in digital platforms, I do believe strongly in sharing information that helps families make thoughtful choices.

Keeping kids safe is something we do together, and it matters everywhere — in the woods, at home, and online.

— Lonnie
Director, Swift Nature Camp