Youth and Gambling - What Every Parent Needs to Know

Even though the legal age for gambling is 21, young people are more exposed than ever through offshore sites, proxy betting, and gambling adjacent actitivites.

The risks are real — here's what you can do.

Know the Warning Signs

  • Unexplained cash or missing money

  • Frequently borrowing money

  • Obsession with scores, odds, or stats

  • Mood swings, poor sleep, low energy

  • Withdrawing from friends, family, or school

How to Talk About It

  1. Keep it short — no lectures

  2. Make it relevant to their interests

  3. Ask open questions, then listen

  4. Stay judgment-free — keep it a safe space

  5. Lead by example

Check out our video series with Randy and Anita for more tips and further information around starting the conversation.

Start the Conversation

You’ve taken the first step to starting the conversation. Now the you understand the warning signs, it’s time to start the conversation and our parent toolkit will guide you through it .

Download the free The Parent Toolkit for more.

“Whether you're a parent, coach or mentor, we are all responsible for setting an example and helping guide the next generation toward making informed, responsible choices.”

Randy Livingston

FanDuel Responsible Gaming Ambassador

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Gambling can have serious consequences for young people. Adolescents are more vulnerable to developing gambling problems due to their still-developing brain, particularly the areas responsible for decision-making and impulse control.

  • Start the conversation early and create an open, non-judgmental space for dialogue. Explain the risks of gambling in terms they can relate to. Keep the conversation ongoing and let them know they can come to you with any questions or concerns. Check out tips from the Responsible Gambling Council hereto learn more.

  • Both the American Academy of Pediatrics and the National Council on Problem Gambling emphasize the importance of early conversations about gambling and the associated risks. While every family is different, it’s important to get informed and make decisions that work best for your family.

  • Signs of potential problem gambling can include:

    • Lying or being secretive about gambling activities

    • Spending excessive time or money on gambling

    • Borrowing money or stealing to fund gambling

    • Declining academic performance or skipping school

    • Mood swings, anxiety, or depression linked to gambling behavior

    • A preoccupation with gambling or always thinking about gambling.

    If you notice these signs, it’s important to intervene early and seek help. 

  • Proxy betting occurs when an individual places a bet on behalf of another person who is unable to participate directly due to legal or geographical restrictions.