Which Cable TV Providers Offer Parental Controls and How to Set Them Up

Children are impressionable and can be easily influenced by what they see on TV. It’s up to parents to set boundaries around the type of content your child consumes through TV shows and streaming platforms. Luckily, parental controls are there to help parents manage the content their children can access in a few simple steps. These controls can restrict certain channels, block programs with inappropriate content based on age ratings, limit viewing times, and prevent unauthorized purchases.

By using parental controls through your TV provider and/or your smart TV settings, you can ensure your kids are only viewing content under their user profiles that you approve of, fostering a safer and more secure viewing environment. Below, we’ll review information on how to set up parental controls under different TV providers, as well as additional parental control options and tips for parents.

The Importance of Parental TV Controls

First and foremost, parental controls protect children from inappropriate content. This includes violent or explicit material, as well as themes that might be too mature for younger viewers. By setting up a kid’s profile and setting restrictions, parents can prevent accidental exposure to such content on your TV or smartphone, regardless of whether your kids are browsing on Netflix, Apple TV, Disney, YouTube, or other streaming platforms. With these settings in place, your kids might spend more time watching educational YouTube channels and TV programs instead of mindless or meaningless content.

Secondly, parental controls help manage screen time. With the ability to set time limits, parents can ensure that children do not spend excessive hours in front of the TV. This can promote a healthier lifestyle and encourage kids to engage in other activities like spending time outside and using their imaginations.

Lastly, parental control options provide peace of mind. Knowing that the TV is restricted to suitable content and usage times allows parents to focus on other responsibilities without constant supervision.

How to Set Parental Controls for the Top TV Providers

Several TV providers that partner with SmartMove offer comprehensive parental control features. Below are some of the providers with parental control settings, with steps for each about how to set it up. Plus, visit our friend’s at Stream Safely for safety tips, watch guides, and educational content to keep your kids safe but busy this summer.

Xfinity

1. Press the Xfinity button on your remote control.
2. Navigate to Settings and select Parental Controls.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to create a PIN.
4. Set restrictions for channels, programs based on ratings, and time limits.

Spectrum

1. Press the Menu button on your remote control.
2. Go to Settings & Support and select Parental Controls.
3. Enter a PIN when prompted.
4. Choose the restrictions you want to apply, such as channel blocks and rating limits.

Cox

1. Access the main menu on your Cox remote.
2. Select Settings and then Parental Controls.
3. Create a PIN and confirm it.
4. Customize your control settings, including blocking specific channels and setting viewing time limits.

Armstrong

1. Go to the Main Menu.
2. Select Parental Controls.
3. Enter your four-digit Parental Control Code.
4. Use the arrow buttons to highlight TV Ratings, Movie Ratings, or Channels.
5. Press OK.
6. Use the arrow buttons to select the desired rating or channel.
7. Press the Lock button.

Optimum

1. Press the Menu button on your remote twice.
2. Scroll to Change PIN under the Parental Control menu and press OK.
3. Enter a four-digit PIN and follow the on-screen instructions.
4. Press Settings on your remote to access the Quick Settings menu.
5. Highlight Parental Controls and press SEL to change the setting from OFF to ON.
6. Enter your PIN.

Additional Tips for Parents

Implementing parental controls is just the first step. There are some things parents still need to do to make your household's new TV-time rules known and respected by your kids. Here are some additional tips:

• Regularly Review and Update Controls: Periodically check and adjust the controls to align with your child's growing needs and changing content availability.
• Communicate with Your Children: Discuss the reasons for the controls and establish clear rules about TV watching. This helps children understand the importance of limits.
• Use Other Parental Controls: Combine TV controls with controls on other devices like tablets and smartphones to provide a comprehensive safety net.
• Monitor Viewing Habits: Keep an eye on what your children are watching and be ready to intervene if necessary.
• Encourage Other Activities: Promote a balanced lifestyle by encouraging activities beyond screen time, such as reading, outdoor play, and family time.

Find the Right TV Provider for Your Household

SmartMove offers a range of benefits and services to help you find the best TV and Internet providers for your family’s needs. You’ll be sure to have access to a variety of content options for adults and children alike, with parental control settings available. With SmartMove, finding the right provider becomes a hassle-free experience, allowing you to focus on what matters most — the well-being of your family.

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