Scratch and Win tickets make for great stocking stuffers and small gifts, but the BC Lottery Corporation is urging parents not to gift them to children.
Recent research has found that children that are introduced to gambling products early in life are more likely to develop a gambling addiction later in life. This rate is higher than children who become addicted to drugs, cigarettes or alcohol.
Spokesperson for the BCLC, Lara Gerrits, says it is a form of entertainment, but children under the age of 19 should not be exposed to gambling.
"Research shows that the earlier that children begin gambling, or have access to gambling, the more likely they are to develop gambling problems as an adult. So we want to ensure that our players are playing safely, and we don't want anyone to develop a problem with their gambling."
Gettis says parents shouldn't gift their children lotto tickets, and they should also take the initiative to speak with them about gambling like they would about drugs or alcohol.
"It's never too early to start having that conversation with your kids. Talk to them about what a skills based game is, something that's like a video games or sports, versus gambling like a slot machine or lottery ticket, where really the outcome is completely random and chance based."
Gettis adds that someone in Greater Victoria is holding onto a million dollar lottery ticket, and they only have 2 weeks left to cash it.
The winning ticket was sold somewhere in the CRD, though Gettis couldn't give details on where exactly, on January 3rd. The ticket expires on January 3rd 2019, and she is encouraging people to search their wallets, purses, jackets and junk drawers for the million dollar ticket.
People who are struggling with gambling addictions, or want to know more information, can click here to seek help.