Making Netflix Kid-Friendly: A Parental Guide to Safer Streaming
Jack Newenham
|
March 7, 2024
Netflix, with its vast array of content, has become a household staple for entertainment. However, as parents, it's crucial to ensure that our children are exposed to age-appropriate material. Thankfully, Netflix offers several features designed to make streaming safer for kids. This guide will walk you through the steps to tailor your Netflix account for your children’s safety and peace of mind.
The first line of defense in safeguarding your kids on Netflix is to create a dedicated profile for them. Here's how:
Log in to Netflix: Start by signing into your Netflix account.
Add a Profile: Select the option to add a new profile. During this process, you will see an option to designate the profile as a 'Kids' account. Make sure to select this option, as it automatically filters the content to show only kid-friendly titles.
This step ensures that when your child uses their profile, Netflix only presents content that is appropriate for children.
Step 2: Secure the Account Settings
To prevent your children from altering the parental controls or switching to an adult profile, Netflix allows you to set a PIN lock. Here's what to do:
Access Profile Settings: Using an adult account, go to the profile management section.
Edit Profiles: Click on the 'Edit' option near the profile you wish to secure.
Set a Profile Lock: Choose the profile you want to lock and create a PIN. This PIN will be required to make any changes to the account or to switch from the kids profile to another profile.
By setting a PIN, you maintain control over the account settings and ensure your children remain within the boundaries of their kid-friendly environment.
Step 3: Adjust the Maturity Rating
Netflix allows parents to customize the maturity rating for each kids' profile, accommodating different age groups. To adjust these settings:
Go to the Web Version: Some settings can only be changed through Netflix’s website. Log in and navigate to the account section.
Manage Profiles: Select 'Manage Profiles' and choose the kids profile you wish to adjust.
Edit Maturity Ratings: Here, you can set the content level to match your child's age. Netflix’s default setting for a kids profile is suitable for children aged 10 and below. However, you can customize this setting based on your child's maturity level.
Step 4: Implement Title Restrictions
If there are specific titles you deem inappropriate for your child, even within their maturity level, Netflix allows you to block these titles:
Title Restrictions: Within the profile's settings, look for an option to restrict certain titles. Enter the names of movies or TV shows you wish to block, ensuring they won't appear in your child’s Netflix browsing experience.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can create a Netflix environment that is safe, entertaining, and suitable for your child's developmental stage. It's a simple process that offers peace of mind, knowing your children are shielded from inappropriate content. Regularly reviewing and adjusting these settings as your child grows ensures that Netflix remains a safe space for their viewing pleasure.
Remember, technology and media consumption should be a tool for learning and enjoyment, not a source of concern. With these safeguards in place, you can rest easy while your kids explore the vast, imaginative world of Netflix content tailored just for them.
Jack is the Marketing Manager at Carrots&Cake, where he channels his extensive background in app development across various sectors into making a positive societal impact. Attracted by the company’s commitment to addressing the challenges of children's screen time, Jack integrates his expertise in technology, psychology, and education to enhance digital parenting practices.
With an academic foundation in psychology and hands-on experience as a volunteer teacher, Jack is uniquely positioned to foster healthier digital habits among children. His dedication to staying current with the latest advancements in screen time and digital parenting allows him to effectively steer and influence this evolving field.
Personally, Jack is a staunch advocate for healthy living. He keeps active with regular gym visits and various sports, reflecting his professional focus on promoting balanced digital behaviors among children. Jack’s diverse interests and his deep commitment to making a real difference shine through his efforts at Carrots&Cake, helping to lead the way towards more positive screen time experiences for kids.