Information for Parents and caregivers
This page contains:
Links for parents and caregivers wanting to learn more about the classification system.
Information to help you make decisions in relation to the films, DVDs and video games your children access.
Watch our cinema ad reminding parents that 'Red Means Restricted'
Embedded YouTube video:
Produced by the Classification Office and Scott Thompson Media. Voice-over credit: Jean Sergent
The classification system and your family
Inquiries and Complaints - what to do if you have an inquiry or complaint.
Children and Films - a guide to understanding film and game classifications and how they relate to children. This page includes advice about young people attending restricted films at cinemas.
Electronic Games - information on the classification of electronic games in New Zealand.
Schools and Films - advice for parents and secondary school teachers on showing films to students and young people.
Primary & Intermediate School - advice for primary and intermediate school teachers on showing films to students and young people.
Film Labels - images of each of the classification labels which can be assigned to publications by the Office and explanations of what each label means.
Research - links to the research reports of the Office may be of interest to parents as much of the research has explored the views and opinions of young people in relation to films and video games.
Website of the Film and Video Labelling Body - search here for classifications and ratings of films, DVDs and video games.
Television, Radio and Print - this page contains information on where to address your queries or concerns about television, radio or print.
Links - Websites of other organisations such as the Broadcasting Standards Authority, The Department of Internal Affairs and overseas censorship bodies.
Contact us - If you would like more information on any aspect of the classification system, please contact the Information Unit.
Information to help make decisions about films and games for your family
Films
Kiwi Families - this site has information on parenting babies through to teenagers. Their films page has recommendations on family friendly films, ticket prices and reviews.
Computer and Video Games
Parentline - Parentline is a Hamilton based parent support group with a focus on the prevention of abuse and neglect of children. In 2009 it completed research into the video game playing habits of children: R18 means R18. [NZ site]
Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) - the ESRB is a non-profit, self-regulatory body established in 1994 by the Entertainment Software Association. It aims to inform consumers, especially parents about computer and video games. [US site]
Media Awareness Network - this site features collections of media education and internet literacy resources. It has information for parents and teachers on games, movies, music, television and marketing. [Canadian site]
Media Issues
Mediascape - a site that brings together resources and information about New Zealand media.
Center for Media Literacy - the Center for Media Literacy (CML) is an educational organisation dedicated to promoting and supporting media literacy education. [US site]
Center on Media and Child Health - the Center on Media and Child Health at Children’s Hospital, Boston, Harvard Medical School and Harvard School of Public Health focuses on the effects of media on the health of children. [US site]
Internet Safety
Department of Internal Affairs - The Censorship Compliance Unit has provided guidelines and other advice for Kiwi parents concerned about their children's safety online. [NZ site]
Netsafe - Netsafe, the programme of New Zealand's Internet Safety Group (ISG) provides cybersafety education for all New Zealanders.
Hector's World - Hector's World™ Limited (HWL) is dedicated to keeping young children safe online. The site features an animated dolphin who teaches children about internet safety. [NZ site]
Kidsmart - this site gives practical information to parents to help them educate their children on internet safety. [UK site]
Childnet International - Childnet International is a non-profit organisation working with others to “help make the internet a great and safe place for children”. [UK site]
GetNetWise - GetNetWise is a public service by internet industry corporations and public interest organisations to help ensure that internet users have safe, constructive, and educational or entertaining online experiences. [US site]