Games console parental controls basics
Parental controls help you decide what children can play, who they can talk to and how long they can spend online. Each console has its own settings and apps, and the names change over time. This guide shows the general approach.
Set up an adult account
- Make sure you have an adult account on the console.
- Create a separate account for each child, with their correct age.
- Link the child accounts to your own as a family or household.
Using the correct age matters, because it affects which settings apply by default.
What you can usually control
- Age ratings: block games above a certain PEGI age rating. PEGI is the European rating system shown on game boxes.
- Playtime: set daily limits or time-of-day limits.
- Spending: stop purchases or require a password or PIN for every buy.
- Online chat: limit voice or text chat with strangers.
- Friend requests: choose who can add your child.
- Web access: limit the browser or block it.
Finding the settings
- PlayStation: look for Family and Parental Controls in Settings.
- Xbox: use the free Xbox Family Settings app on your phone, or the settings menu.
- Nintendo Switch: the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls phone app is the easiest way.
Names may change, so check the maker's website if they look different.
Keep a PIN or password
Choose a PIN your child cannot guess, and do not share it. Write it down somewhere safe.
Talk about it too
Settings help, but conversations help more. Talk about what games they play, who they chat to, and what to do if something upsetting happens.
Games with their own settings
Games such as Fortnite, Roblox and Minecraft have their own safety and chat settings in addition to the console. Check these as well.
When to get more help
Get in touch if a child has found a way round the limits, you have forgotten the PIN, or you want help setting up each child's account. We can walk you through it.