Responsible parenting involves making informed decisions about what gifts are appropriate for children. One particular dilemma that parents often face is whether to buy lottery tickets as gifts for little ones. Although lottery tickets and scratch cards might appear to be fun and attractive, such as, for example, the powerball lottery and affordable gift options, they come with hidden risks that can potentially lead to gambling problems.

Researchers from McGill University and the National Council on Problem Gambling, along with lotteries in Canada and the U.S., are urging families to avoid giving lottery tickets and scratch cards to minors. A recent study has shown that 19% of high school students received lottery products as gifts, mostly from family members. This statistic, though lower than the 30% reported in 2004, still highlights an ongoing issue. The campaign aims to reduce adolescent gambling by encouraging alternative gift options that are better suited for children and teens.

The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) is actively reminding adults that lottery products, including instant tickets, are not suitable gifts for children. This initiative aligns with the broader efforts of various organizations aiming to highlight the risks associated with underage gambling. For instance, the YMCA Youth Gambling Awareness Program and the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health’s Gambling, Gaming, and Technology Use program offer valuable resources for parents to educate themselves and their children about these risks.

The Impact of Early Exposure to Lottery Playing

Research suggests that 70-80% of teenagers have gambled for money in the past year, and 30% report doing so on a weekly basis. Many current problem gamblers began gambling during childhood, at ages as young as 9 or 10. This early exposure can lead to the development of addictive behaviors later in life, making it crucial for parents to act responsibly by not giving lottery products to minors.

Resources for Parents

Parents can access a variety of free resources to help them understand and address the risks of youth gambling:

• YMCA Youth Gambling Awareness Program (YGAP): This program is funded by the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care to raise awareness among youth about gambling risks, helping them make informed decisions and lead healthy, active lifestyles.

• Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH): The Gambling, Gaming, and Technology Use (GGTU) program provides support to addiction and mental health service providers through professional development, digital tools, and knowledge mobilization activities related to gambling, video gaming, and internet addiction.

• Responsible Gambling Council (RGC): This independent non-profit organization focuses on preventing problem gambling in Canada and globally, offering comprehensive information on the impact of gambling on teens and young adults.

Parents can also visit OLG’s PlaySmart.ca to gain insights into gambling concepts like odds and randomness. The website features a “Finding Help” section that provides links to additional support resources.

Responsible Gift-Giving

The holiday season is a time for joy and generosity, but it is also a time to make responsible choices. Giving lottery tickets to children may seem harmless, but it could inadvertently encourage gambling behaviors. Parents need to consider alternative gift options that do not involve games of chance. Educational toys, books, and experiential gifts like a day out can be more beneficial and safer alternatives.

Since 1975, OLG has contributed approximately $55 billion to various key priorities in Ontario, including healthcare and the treatment and prevention of problem gambling. As a socially responsible organization, OLG emphasizes that lottery products should only be gifted to those who are 18 years or older.

Final Thoughts

Parents play a crucial role in shaping their children's attitudes towards gambling. By making informed choices about gift-giving, parents can help prevent the onset of gambling habits in their children. Remember, gambling should be reserved for adults, similar to the age restrictions on the sale of alcohol and tobacco. For more information on responsible gambling practices, visit the National Council on Problem Gambling.

This holiday season, let's prioritize the well-being of our children by giving them the gift of responsibility. By doing so, we can help foster a healthier, more aware generation.