Gaming for kids

1. Open up the systems settings section from the Nintendo Switch's home page.
2. Go to parental controls, then select this console and then restriction level. You'll be given a choice of pre-set restrictions for child, pre-teen, or teen, or custom settings that you can set yourself.
3. If you choose custom settings, you can restrict certain game ages, social media posts, online features and playing time.
   Click here for more information about Nintendo Switch Parental Controls

1. From the PS5 home screen press up on the d-pad to get to the functions area.
2. Go to the settings tab, then click on parental controls, and then on restrict use of PS5 features.
3. You'll then need to set up a parental control passcode and from here you can set the level of control.
   Click here for more information about PlayStation Parental Controls

1. Once you've created a user account for your child, you can add them to your Xbox family in the setting section.
2. Then click on your child's account and accept the privacy setting agreement.
3. You can then set restrictions for access to content and apps, web filtering and descriptions in One Guide.
   Click here for more information about Xbox One Parental Controls

Get free expert advice from Internet Matters on how to make your children's online life fulfilling, fun and above all safe. The non-profit organisation offers simple advice on the main issues children may be exposed to when browsing the internet, alongside safeguarding tips for setting up appropriate controls and filters across your devices.
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Children can start exploring simple video games around ages 3-5, preferably with consistent adult supervision. Choosing age‑appropriate games and limiting screen time helps ensure a child's gaming fosters learning, creativity and fun, rather than overstimulation.

The 20‑20‑20 rule is a simple practice that helps protect eyesight from screen time induced eye fatigue. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to reduce eye strain during gaming sessions.

Here are some quick general tips to clean your gaming equipment regardless of which console you use. Turn devices off first. Use a soft, dry microfibre cloth for screens and surfaces, and lightly dampen with an approved electronics cleaner if needed. Avoid using sprays, excess moisture or household chemicals.

Maintaining a gaming setup handled by kids can be challenging. Little hands can get things messy fast! Light cleaning like a quick wipe down with soft, dry microfibre cloths once a week helps remove dust and germs, while electronics-friendly cleaning solutions can help with stickier messes. Deeper cleaning like brushing with gadget cleaning tools every 1–2 months keeps controllers, keyboards and screens hygienic and working well in the long run.