Making Netflix safe and fun for the whole family

Updated April 11, 2025, 2:01 p.m. | By East Coast Breakfast / Skyye Ndlovu

Discover how to make family movie nights safer and more fun with Netflix’s latest parental controls. Plus, check out the hottest new shows dropping this April.

Family movie nights are some of the best moments we get to share at home, but between the laughs, popcorn, and remote battles, it’s important to make sure the kids are only watching what’s right for them.

That’s where Netflix (with a little help from the Film and Publication Board) comes in, offering some seriously smart tools to help you take control of your family’s viewing experience.

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Your Netflix. Your rules

Netflix makes it super easy for parents to take charge.

Want to set up a space just for the kids? You can create a dedicated "Kids Profile" that only shows age-appropriate shows and movies – all in a kid-friendly layout.

1. Age-appropriate? Check

Each profile can have its own maturity rating, so your toddler doesn’t end up watching teen dramas, and your teen isn’t stuck with cartoons (unless they’re into that, of course).

You can also block specific titles that you’re not ready for them to see, even if they’re trending.

2. Lock it down

Worried about the kids sneaking into your profile? You can PIN-lock individual profiles to make sure everyone stays in their own lane.

If your mini tech genius tries to create a new profile to outsmart you, you can lock that too.

3. Control the scroll

No more “Just one more episode!” turning into three hours later. With autoplay settings, you can turn off previews, stop episodes from rolling one after the other, and keep screen time in check.

If you want to set up your Netflix like a pro, head over to Netflix’s official step-by-step guide and start customising your family’s viewing experience today.

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What’s new and family-friendly on Netflix?

Looking for something the whole family can enjoy? There’s no shortage of laughs, thrills, and heartfelt moments coming your way:

'Meet the Khumalo's' (April 11)
Get ready to laugh out loud as two former besties-turned-rivals are forced back into each other’s lives when their kids fall in love. With a star-studded cast including Khanyi Mbau, Ayanda Borotho, Jesse Suntele, and Khosi Ngema, it's drama, romance, and comedy all rolled into one.

'Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey' (April 21)
A man finds new purpose when he helps rescue a baby pangolin, one of the most trafficked animals in the world, in a sting operation in South Africa. He leaves the city and embarks on a heartfelt mission to rehabilitate and prepare the vulnerable animal for a life of freedom in the wild.

'Asterix & Obelix: The Big Fight' (April 30)
Rome is desperate to conquer the last independent village in Gaul and the home of Asterix and Obelix. The secret to the Gauls’ battle superiority is a magic potion, but when the potion master loses his memory, the villagers are left to their own devices against the might of Rome.

'Ginny & Georgia' – Season 3 (June 5)
Georgia has just been arrested for murder during her wedding, ruining her fairy-tale ending and putting the spotlight on the Millers like never before. It's always been Ginny and Georgia against the world, but the world has never come for them quite like this.

'Stranger Things' – Season 5
The upside-down is calling! While we wait for the official release date, fans can gear up for the epic return of this mystery-packed favourite. After the wild events of the fourth season, things are about to get even stranger…

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Beyond the screen

Netflix also offers a Netflix Family Hub – a fun little corner full of printable activities, DIYs, recipes, and more to keep kids entertained off-screen too.

It’s perfect for school holidays, rainy days, or when you just want to switch things up.

Whether you’re in the mood for adventure, comedy, or something to bring the whole fam together, Netflix is making sure your home entertainment stays both safe and entertaining.