Netflix has a deep set of parental controls — you just have to know where to find them. This step-by-step guide shows you how to create a safe Kids profile, set maturity limits, lock profiles with a PIN, block individual titles and switch off autoplay. The settings are easiest to change from a web browser, and they then sync to every device your family uses.
Why Netflix parental controls matter
By default, any profile on your account can watch almost anything in the library. A few minutes of setup creates a walled garden for younger viewers, so a curious child can’t stumble into a TV-MA thriller while you’re in the kitchen. Each child can have their own profile with rules that match their age.
Step 1: Create a Kids profile
From the Netflix home screen, open Manage Profiles and choose Add Profile. Give it your child’s name, and turn on the Kids option to switch on the simplified, child-safe experience. Select Continue and the new profile appears on your account.
Step 2: Set the maturity rating
Go to Account → Profile & Parental Controls, click the child’s profile, and open Viewing Restrictions (you’ll re-enter your password). Choose the highest maturity level the profile may see — for example TV-Y, TV-G, PG or TV-14. Netflix then hides everything above that level. Not sure which to pick? See our guide to TV age ratings.
Step 3: Add a profile-lock PIN
Still under Profile & Parental Controls, find Profile Lock and click Change. Tick the box to require a 4-digit PIN to open that profile, then set your PIN. This stops children from jumping into an adult profile to bypass restrictions.
Step 4: Block specific titles
In the same Viewing Restrictions screen, type the name of any show or film you want to hide under Title Restrictions, select it, and save. The title disappears from that profile — handy for a single series that worries you even though its rating is allowed.
Step 5: Require a PIN to add new profiles
A newer Netflix feature lets you require your PIN before anyone can create a new profile — closing a common loophole where kids simply make a fresh, unrestricted profile. Enable it from the same controls page (available once your main profile has a lock PIN).
Step 6: Turn off autoplay
In each profile’s settings you can switch off autoplay of the next episode and autoplay previews. This small change reduces mindless binge-watching and gives kids a natural stopping point.
Controls at a glance
| Control | What it does |
|---|---|
| Kids profile | Child-safe interface and library |
| Maturity rating | Hides content above a chosen level |
| Profile lock PIN | Stops switching into adult profiles |
| Title restriction | Blocks a specific show or film |
| Autoplay off | Reduces non-stop binge viewing |
Do the settings work on every device?
Yes. Because the controls live on your account, changes made on the website apply automatically to the TV app, phone, tablet and games console. There’s no need to repeat the setup on each device — though it’s worth checking the child actually opens their own profile, not yours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I set different rules for each child?
Yes. Each profile has its own maturity level, blocked titles and PIN, so you can tailor controls to each child’s age.
Do parental controls sync across devices?
Yes — changes made on the website apply to the TV app, phone and tablet automatically.
Can kids bypass the controls?
If you set a profile-lock PIN and require a PIN for new profiles, it’s very difficult for a child to get around the restrictions.
Does a Kids profile remove all mature content?
It limits the library to the maturity level you choose, but it’s still wise to set a specific level and review what’s visible.
Helpful resources
For the latest screens, see the official Netflix Help Center: Parental Controls.
Next steps
Using other services too? Set up Disney+, Max and Hulu controls as well. And to choose the right maturity level, read movie age ratings explained.