Alexa parental controls are a set of features that allow you to manage what your children can access on your Amazon Echo devices. With these controls, you can filter explicit content, set time limits, and review activity. Here’s how you can quickly set up these controls to keep your kids safe.
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Use Alexa Parental Controls
Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to know that setting up parental controls on Alexa will help you manage your children’s interactions with the device. This ensures that they have a safe and age-appropriate experience.
Step 1: Open the Alexa App
Open the Alexa app on your smartphone or tablet.
In this step, you’ll need to have the Alexa app installed on your mobile device. If you don’t have it yet, you can download it from the App Store or Google Play Store. Make sure you’re logged in with the same Amazon account that’s linked to your Echo device.
Step 2: Access Settings
Go to the settings menu in the Alexa app.
Once you’re in the Alexa app, look for the ‘Settings’ option. It’s usually found in the menu at the bottom of the screen or by clicking the ‘More’ option on the lower right-hand corner.
Step 3: Select Alexa Privacy
Choose ‘Alexa Privacy’ from the settings menu.
In the ‘Alexa Privacy’ section, you’ll find various options related to data management and privacy settings. This is where you’ll be able to adjust settings related to your children’s interactions with Alexa.
Step 4: Enable Kid Skills
Turn on the ‘Kid Skills’ option to allow child-friendly content.
By enabling ‘Kid Skills’, you’re allowing your children to access a curated list of skills that are appropriate for their age. This can include educational games, stories, and more.
Step 5: Set up Amazon Kids
Create an Amazon Kids profile for your child.
Amazon Kids (formerly known as FreeTime) is a service that provides parental controls for all Amazon devices, including Echo. You can create a profile for your child, set daily time limits, and filter content.
After completing these steps, you’ll have successfully set up Alexa parental controls. Your kids can now interact with Alexa in a safer and more controlled environment.
Tips for Using Alexa Parental Controls
- Regularly review the skills your child has access to, as new ones are always being added.
- Utilize the voice purchasing settings to prevent your child from making unauthorized purchases.
- Consider the use of Amazon Kids+ for access to a vast library of kid-friendly content.
- Keep the Alexa app updated to ensure you have the latest parental control features.
- Communicate with your child about the importance of these controls and safe device usage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alexa Parental Controls
What is Amazon Kids?
Amazon Kids is a service that provides parental controls across all Amazon devices, including Alexa.
Amazon Kids allows you to create a personalized experience for your child, with control over the content they can access and the ability to set time limits on usage.
Can I block specific skills or content?
Yes, you can block specific skills or content within the Amazon Kids settings.
When you create your child’s profile, you’ll have the option to customize their experience by allowing or blocking specific skills and content.
Is there a way to set time limits for Alexa usage?
Yes, through Amazon Kids, you can set daily time limits for your child’s Alexa usage.
This feature helps you manage how long your child interacts with the Echo device each day.
Can I review my child’s activity on Alexa?
Yes, you can review your child’s activity through the Amazon Kids dashboard.
The dashboard provides insights into what your child has been accessing, which can help you make informed decisions about their usage.
Will Alexa Parental Controls work on all Echo devices?
Alexa Parental Controls are available on most Echo devices, but it’s best to check compatibility before setting them up.
Most current-generation Echo devices support Alexa Parental Controls. However, if you have an older model, it’s worth checking the Amazon website for more information.
Summary of Steps
- Open the Alexa App
- Access Settings
- Select Alexa Privacy
- Enable Kid Skills
- Set up Amazon Kids
Conclusion
Navigating the world of technology with children can be daunting, but with tools like Alexa’s parental controls, it doesn’t have to be. By following the steps outlined above, you can create a kid-friendly environment that allows your children to learn, play, and explore safely. Remember to keep the dialogue open with your kids about responsible device usage and to regularly review and adjust the controls as needed. With these controls in place, you can rest assured that your children’s interactions with Alexa are appropriate and enriching. For further information or guidance, Amazon’s support resources are just a click away, offering detailed information on every aspect of Alexa parental controls.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.