Parental Controls on Gaming Consoles

PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo Switch all have strong parental controls built in. Here's a quick guide for each.

PlayStation (PS4 / PS5)

1. Go to Settings > Family Management (PS4) or Settings > Users and Accounts > Family Management (PS5).

2. Create a family group and add your child as a family member.

3. Set spending limits, game age ratings, and restrict access to PlayStation Store.

4. Download the PlayStation App on your phone to manage settings remotely.

Xbox

1. Visit account.microsoft.com/family or use the Xbox Family Settings app.

2. Add your child's Microsoft account to your family group.

3. Set screen time schedules, content filters, and spending limits from the app

Nintendo Switch

1. Download the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app on your phone.

2. Follow the in-app instructions to link it to your child's Switch.

3. Set age rating restrictions, screen time limits, and bedtime alarms.

4. Restrict communication with other players and the posting of screenshots online.

Tip: The Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app is one of the best-designed parental control systems out there — it's worth setting up even if your child is older.