Set Xbox family controls around your household

Xbox family settings can help caregivers manage content, communication and spending for a child's account.

Start with the right account

Xbox family tools are designed for adults to manage child accounts and household settings. First confirm who owns each profile and who can change settings; sharing an adult account can make controls and purchases harder to manage. Microsoft support explains available family features, but menus and options can vary by region, device and software version.

Choose boundaries together

Review content access, online communication, multiplayer access, screen-time tools and spending controls where available. Talk through what the settings are intended to do, and decide how a child can ask for an exception. ESRB's Xbox guide offers setup assistance for U.S. audiences. Use Xbox or Microsoft documentation as the source of truth for your current console and account.

Review after updates or changes

New games, a new device or an account-age change can affect what a family needs. Periodically review settings with the young player rather than assuming one setup covers every game or communication channel. Controls are tools, not a substitute for conversation or supervision. Check current official support instructions because available categories and menu labels can change.