Step-by-Step: Setting Up Parental Controls on Nintendo Switch In the Year 2025

The Nintendo Switch is one of the most popular gaming consoles worldwide, appealing to both kids and adults. While its family-friendly games make it suitable for younger players, parents may still want to set boundaries on playtime, purchases, or online interactions. Thankfully, the Nintendo Switch includes built-in parental controls that help manage and monitor gaming activities. This guide walks through the step-by-step process of setting up parental controls on the Nintendo Switch.

Step 1: Download the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls App

Nintendo offers a free Parental Controls app for iOS and Android. This app allows parents to monitor and adjust console settings remotely.

  • Visit the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).
  • Search for Nintendo Switch Parental Controls and install it.
  • Open the app and log in using your Nintendo Account.

Step 2: Link the App to Your Nintendo Switch

Once the app is installed, link it to the console:

  • On your Nintendo Switch, go to System Settings (gear icon).
  • Scroll down to Parental Controls.
  • Select Parental Controls Settings.
  • Choose Use Your Smart Device.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to pair the console with your app using a registration code.

Step 3: Set Playtime Limits

With the app linked, you can now manage screen time:

  • Open the Parental Controls app.
  • Tap on Play-Time Limit.
  • Choose a daily playtime (e.g., 1 hour, 2 hours).
  • Enable the Bedtime Alarm to prevent late-night gaming.
  • When time is up, a notification appears on the console, and gameplay can be restricted.

Step 4: Restrict Content by Age Rating

Parents can filter games based on age-appropriateness:

  • In the app dashboard, select Restriction Level.
  • Choose from pre-set levels (Child, Pre-Teen, Teen) or set a Custom Level.
  • Restrictions can block access to games with higher age ratings.

Step 5: Control Online Interactions and Purchases

The parental controls also help regulate online features:

  • Restrict Communication: Limit chat features and social interactions in certain games.
  • Block Posting to Social Media: Prevent children from sharing content directly to platforms like Twitter or Facebook.
  • Restrict Purchases: Use your Nintendo Account password or PIN to block unauthorized eShop purchases.

Step 6: Monitor Play Reports

The Parental Controls app provides monthly play reports, showing:

  • Most played games
  • Total hours spent
  • Daily playtime patterns

This allows parents to understand gaming habits and adjust restrictions if necessary.

Step 7: Adjust or Disable Parental Controls Anytime

If your child grows older or you want to loosen restrictions, simply adjust settings in the app or console menu. You can also disable parental controls entirely using your PIN.

Final Thoughts

Parental controls on the Nintendo Switch offer a simple yet effective way to manage screen time, restrict content, and monitor gaming activity. By taking a few minutes to set them up, parents can ensure a safer and healthier gaming experience for children—without taking away the fun.