Parental Controls for Video Games

Virtually every device that plays video games (consoles, PCs, smartphones, etc.) include parental controls to help you manage your kids’ video game experiences.

Setting up child accounts for each of your children. Every device allows you to create child accounts for your kids, and it is a very important step of the process. Child accounts automatically provide guardrails against the collection of some data and allow you to set parental controls. In some cases, child accounts also automatically put some settings into effect. For example, Fortnite’s Cabined Accounts automatically block voice chat and real-money purchases until you provide consent. If you have several kids using one console, different accounts also help make sure a younger child doesn’t accidentally get exposed to a game or service that you’ve deemed appropriate for your older child (or for you!). Make sure you always put in your children’s correct birthdates when setting up their accounts and pick a password or PIN that only you know. These steps will help you continue to manage your kid’s video game use and provide flexibility as they grow and mature.

Yes, virtually all modern devices offer the ability to manage screen time in some capacity. Some devices allow you to simply set an amount of daily game time, while many offer the ability to set weekly schedules for when your kids can play and for how long. Regardless, the device will simply shut off once your kids hit the allotted amount of time.

Yes, you can block access to games based on the ESRB-assigned rating information. Some devices, like the PlayStation 5, go by the age of the child. For example, if your child is 12, games rated T for Teen, M for Mature 17+, and AO for Adults Only 18+ will be blocked. Other devices let you block based on the specific age rating. Either way, you always have the ability to make exceptions and allow more restrictively rated games if you decide it’s appropriate for your family.

Yes, all devices include settings to manage with whom kids can play online. On some consoles you can block communication entirely. Meanwhile, others allow you to curate friends lists to make sure your kids are only playing with people they know in real life.

All devices have settings to help you limit or block spending money on in-game purchases or new games. Some devices can even be set to provide your kids with an allowance so they can decide how they want to spend money in a controlled environment.

Visit ESRB’s Family Gaming Guide for conversation starters that will help you set household rules around video games. The Family Gaming Guide has helpful tips for managing screen time, preserving your child’s privacy, picking appropriate games, and more!