The Smelly Mystery

YMA recommendation

	Approved as non-violent media, with caution. Slapstick comedy; Risk of imitative behaviour
Most suitable age range: 5-7

Availability

About the game

Synopsis

Mercer Mayer’s famous Little Monster Private Eye is called in to investigate the true identity of the Evil Smell Switcher by collecting clues along the way.

Points to consider

Words of caution

• The game contains some slapstick comedy for visual effect. Research has shown that some children under the age of 8 can be sometimes confused or disturbed by slapstick comedy. 
• There is some mild interpersonal harassment which parents would not want their children to imitate.

Positive aspects

• The accompanying story is able to be read aloud and is printed on the screen; highlighted as each sentence chunk is read. 
• The game also briefly addresses dental hygiene and, overall, it is quite clever and amusing.

Questions to ask

• Parents are reminded that children under the age of 8 can sometimes be confused or disturbed by slapstick comedy.  Parents may wish to ask, “Do you think that would hurt if it happened in real life/to you/someone you know?” 
• Helping children to understand how they may hurt other people with their words and reinforcing the concept that everyone has a right to feel safe are important discussion points for families to engage in.