Game consoles such as PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo Switch are popular with kids, but they also give access to online features and mature games. Fortunately, all major consoles offer extensive parental controls. In this article we explain how to set them up on each console.

Why use parental controls on game consoles?

Modern game consoles are more than just gaming devices. They give access to the internet, online multiplayer, streaming services and stores where content can be purchased. Without the right settings, your child may get access to inappropriate games or make unwanted contacts online.

Risks without parental controls

  • Access to games with violence, sex or mature themes
  • Online communication with strangers
  • Uncontrolled in-game purchases
  • Excessive gaming without time limits
  • Exposure to toxic online behavior
  • Sharing personal information

Setting up PlayStation parental controls

Sony offers extensive parental controls through PlayStation Family Management. This works for both PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5.

Creating a child account

Go to Settings on your PlayStation and select 'Users and Accounts'. Choose 'Users' and then 'Add User'. Select 'Create a User' and choose a child account. You will be asked to sign in with your own PSN account as the family manager. Then enter your child's details.

Age restrictions for games

After creating the child account, you can set age restrictions. Go to 'Settings', then 'Family Management' and select your child. Under 'Parental Controls' you will find 'Age Level for Games'. Set the maximum age based on PEGI ratings (3, 7, 12, 16 or 18).

Restricting communication and online features

You can decide whether your child can chat with other players, add friends or view content created by others. Go to 'Communication with Other Players' and choose the restriction you want: allow, limit to friends, or block completely.

Playtime limits

PlayStation lets you set playtime limits. Under 'Playtime' you can set a daily limit. Your child receives notifications when time is almost up, and the console can lock automatically when the limit is reached.

PlayStation App for parents

Download the PlayStation App on your smartphone. With it you can monitor your child's playtime, adjust limits and receive notifications about their gaming activity, even when you are not at home.

Setting up Xbox parental controls

With Xbox Family Settings, Microsoft offers a powerful parental control system that works on Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S.

Adding a child account to your family

Your child needs a Microsoft account. Go to account.microsoft.com/family and add your child to your family group. If your child is under 13, you create a child account that is automatically linked to your account.

Content and app restrictions

In Xbox Family Settings you can set which games and apps your child may use. Go to 'Content filters' and set the age rating. Games and apps with a higher rating are blocked. You can also block or allow specific games or apps manually.

Managing screen time

Xbox offers detailed screen time options. You can set daily limits per device or for all devices together. You can also set specific time windows in which your child is allowed to play, for example only between 16:00 and 20:00 on school days.

Online safety and communication

Under 'Online safety' you decide whether your child can join multiplayer games, chat with others or see content created by others. You can choose from preset profiles (child, teen, adult) or adjust each setting manually.

Xbox Family Settings app

Microsoft offers a dedicated app for parents: Xbox Family Settings. Download it on your iPhone or Android. Through the app you can view gaming activity, approve or deny screen time and adjust settings. You also receive notifications when your child requests extra playtime.

Setting up Nintendo Switch parental controls

The Nintendo Switch is popular with younger children. Nintendo offers parental controls through the console itself and a handy app.

Parental controls on the Switch

Go to the HOME Menu and select 'System Settings'. Choose 'Parental Controls' and then 'Parental Controls Settings'. You can set a PIN and configure restrictions directly on the console.

Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app

For the best overview, download the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app on your smartphone. Link the app to the Switch by following the instructions. You scan a QR code on the Switch screen with your phone.

Setting a playtime limit

In the app you can set a daily playtime limit. Choose how much time your child may play per day. When the time is up, a notification appears on the Switch. You can choose whether the console goes into sleep mode automatically or whether your child can keep playing (with your knowledge via the app).

Software restrictions

You can set restrictions based on PEGI ages. Games with a higher rating than the one you set cannot be started. You can also restrict access to the Nintendo eShop or turn it off completely.

Restricting communication features

Nintendo Switch has limited online communication compared to other consoles, but you can restrict it even further. Turn off posting screenshots, communicating with others and sharing messages if you want.

General tips for gaming parental controls

No matter which console you have, these tips help keep gaming safe.

Understand the PEGI ratings

PEGI is the European rating system for games:

  • PEGI 3: Suitable for all ages
  • PEGI 7: Mild violence or scary scenes
  • PEGI 12: More realistic violence, mild bad language
  • PEGI 16: Intense violence, drugs, sexual activity
  • PEGI 18: Adults only

Check the rating before you buy a game or allow a download.

Manage in-game purchases

Many games offer in-game purchases. Make sure your payment methods are protected with a PIN or password. Explain to your child that virtual items cost real money, and agree on when purchases are allowed.

Talk about online interaction

Online multiplayer means contact with strangers. Discuss with your child that they should never share personal information, should not respond to mean behavior and should tell you when someone acts strangely.

Play together

Regularly take the time to play games together. It is fun for your bond and gives you insight into which games your child plays and what happens in them.

Be flexible with limits

Strict limits work better when there is room for exceptions. If your child is in the middle of an exciting level, five extra minutes can mean a lot. Help your child learn to set their own limits too, by sometimes asking them when a good moment to stop would be.

With the parental control settings on PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo Switch, you can create a safe gaming environment for your child. By combining technical restrictions with open conversations about safe gaming, you help your child have positive experiences with gaming.

Frequently asked questions

Can I manage screen time remotely for all consoles?

Yes, all three console makers offer apps for parents. PlayStation has the PlayStation App, Xbox has the Xbox Family Settings app, and Nintendo has the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app. With these apps you can monitor and adjust screen time, even when you are not at home.

What exactly do the PEGI ages mean?

PEGI ratings indicate which age a game is suitable for. PEGI 3 is for everyone, PEGI 7 contains mildly scary elements, PEGI 12 has more realistic violence, PEGI 16 contains intense violence or drugs, and PEGI 18 is for adults only. The rating is shown on the box and in the store.

How do I stop my child from spending money on in-game purchases?

Set a PIN or password for all purchases in the console settings. You can also block access to the online store completely for child accounts. In addition, explain to your child that virtual items cost real money and make clear agreements.

Should I turn off all online features for my child?

That depends on your child's age and maturity. For young children it is wise to limit communication to known friends or turn it off completely. Older children can learn to communicate safely online with guidance.

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