High Stakes, Small Screens: How to Shield Youth from Online Sports Betting

Following the legalization of online sports betting in Florida, many families are facing new challenges in protecting their children from the risks of underage gambling and exposure to gambling-related content. Shared devices, family accounts, and the pervasive advertising of betting platforms can make it easier for adolescents to stumble upon — or even engage in — gambling activities. This letter is meant to help you understand these risks and provide practical steps to safeguard your children.

The Risks of Online Sports Betting for Youth

Online sports betting in Florida is restricted to those who are at least 21 years of age. While safeguards are in place to prevent the creation of an account by underage individuals, shared devices and even common living spaces still present significant challenges. It’s no secret that smartphones, tablets, or computers often store saved passwords or payment information for sake of convenience, but this also means that curious children may gain unintended access to gambling platforms. Consider too that even device passcodes and biometric locks can fail in a home environment, if an already unlocked device is set down and falls into wandering hands. Even if parents are extraordinarily careful about devices, the constant exposure to advertisements during sports broadcasts or on social media can normalize these behaviors at an impressionable age.

Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to gambling addiction due to their developing brains, which make them more prone to risk-taking behaviors. Gambling can quickly spiral into financial losses, strained family relationships, and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. As parents, it’s critical to stay vigilant and proactive.

What Florida Research Tells Us About Youth Gambling

Findings from the FCCG’s research into gambling and problem gambling prevalence in Florida adolescents [1] were incredibly concerning, and all were well before the rise of today’s mobile connected world:

• Florida prevalence research revealed 18.5% of adolescents ages 13-17 reported purchasing lottery tickets in their lifetime and 12.5% within the past year.
• Lifetime participation in gambling was almost 70% among Florida residents, ages 13 to 17.
• Over 40% reported gambling in the past year and 11.5% identified as weekly gamblers.
• Adolescent problem gamblers also had much higher rates of alcohol, drug, and tobacco use.

How You Can Protect Your Children

There are several tools and strategies you can use to reduce the risks:

1. Set Digital Boundaries with Self-Exclusion Resources – Call or text the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine for free information and referrals about these tools!
   • Activate parental controls on all shared devices, which allow you to block gambling apps and websites.
   • Use third-party software for additional filtering and monitoring.
   • Restrict gambling-related content across your home network.
2. Monitor Financial Activity
   • Regularly check bank accounts or payment apps for any unusual transactions.
   • Avoid saving payment information on shared devices that children can access.
3. Educate Your Children – Call or text the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine to get free literature that can prepare you for these conversations!
   • Have honest conversations about the dangers of gambling. Explain how betting platforms use tactics designed to encourage frequent participation.
   • Teach them about the financial and emotional consequences of gambling.
4. Encourage Healthy Alternatives
   • Help your children find positive outlets for their energy and competitiveness, such as sports, hobbies, or community activities.
   • Limit screen time to reduce exposure to gambling ads and apps.

Recognizing Warning Signs

It’s important to watch for signs that your child may be engaging in gambling activities:

• Secrecy around online activity or devices.
• Unexplained financial transactions or missing money.
• Behavioral changes like irritability, anxiety, or an obsession with winning competitions.
• Declines in academic performance or withdrawal from family activities.

Did you know that the FCCG offers a free Youth/Adolescent Self Assessment Quiz on its website? If you suspect your child has been exposed to gambling or is struggling with related behaviors, there is help available.

Contacting the FCCG HelpLine

The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling (FCCG) offers the 24/7, Confidential, and Multilingual 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine. Free resource referrals are available not only for individuals struggling with gambling but also for parents and loved ones who are concerned about its impact on their families. When you contact the HelpLine, you’ll gain access to a variety of resources tailored specifically for parents and guardians:

• Educational Materials: Learn more about how gambling affects adolescents and how you can prevent underage exposure.
• Support Services: Get connected with counselors who specialize in problem gambling, or speak to a Peer Connect Specialist.
• Family Guidance: Receive free literature about talking to your child about gambling and setting boundaries effectively.
• Powerful Tools: Receive referrals to the FCCG’s Self-Exclusion Programs, which include Internet Controls and Web Blocking Software.

As a parent, you want nothing more than to protect your children from harm—and that includes shielding them from the risks of online sports betting. By setting clear boundaries, educating your children about the dangers of gambling, and using tools available through the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine, you can create a safer environment for your family.

1. Shapira, N. A., Ferguson, M. A., Frost-Pineda, K., & Gold, M. S. (2002). Gambling and Problem Gambling Prevalence among Adolescents in Florida.