Scratch and win tickets: A joy to give, but not for kids 

The Risks of Youth Gambling

Giving kids lottery tickets may seem like harmless fun, but it can increase the risk of gambling problems later in life. Research indicates that exposure to gambling during childhood is correlated with the development of problem gambling in adulthood.

Scratch-and-win tickets, raffles, and other lottery games are among the most common ways kids are exposed to gambling. While adults often see these gifts as lighthearted, kids may form positive associations with gambling early on, making it harder for them to make safer choices about gambling later.

Why Kids are More at Risk

Children’s brains are still developing, which makes it harder for them to understand risks and long-term consequences. Risk assessment skills don’t fully develop until adulthood. Kids also learn by observing adults—so if they see family members gambling, they’re more likely to think of it as normal behaviour. Research shows that children whose parents gamble are more likely to gamble themselves. 

Holiday Fun Without the Risk

As the holidays approach, it’s easy to find memorable gifts and traditions that are fun for the whole family without introducing gambling. Here are some ideas:

• Gift books and read stories by the fireplace together
• Gift holiday treats like hot cocoa to enjoy after winter activities like skating or sledding
• Gift crafting kits or supplies and make paper snowflakes
• Gift cozy pajamas to wear for a special holiday movie night

This season, choose to Gift Smart. Scratch-and-win tickets may seem like fun, but they're not child's play.