Discord is a popular communication app used by gamers, students, and communities—but it can also expose kids to mature content, strangers, and unfiltered chat. If you’re a parent, it’s important to understand how to manage and limit what your child can access on Discord.
While Discord doesn’t have built-in “parental controls” like some platforms, you can still take several important steps to make it safer.
Here’s how.
🚨 First: Know What Discord Is
Discord lets users chat via text, voice, and video, and join servers—public or private communities organized around games, hobbies, or interests.
That openness is part of the appeal—but also a risk for younger users.
👤 Step 1: Set Up a Supervised Account (if possible)
Tip: Discord’s Terms of Service require users to be at least 13 years old. Make sure your child is using their real age—Discord uses this to limit access to some NSFW content.
For younger teens, it’s a good idea to create the account together and go through settings as a team.
🔒 Step 2: Adjust Privacy & Safety Settings
- Open Discord, click the gear icon (⚙️) next to your username.
- Go to Privacy & Safety.
- Change these key settings:
- Keep Me Safe: Enable this to scan and block direct messages with explicit content.
- Who Can Add You as a Friend: Set this to Friends of Friends or No One.
- Allow direct messages from server members: Turn this off.
These settings help reduce unwanted messages or friend requests.
🧹 Step 3: Leave or Mute Risky Servers
Review what servers your child has joined. If they’re in public servers with unknown users or inappropriate themes, leave them.
To leave a server:
- Right-click the server icon > click Leave Server
To mute notifications:
- Right-click server > Notification Settings > Mute as needed
🚫 Step 4: Disable Explicit Media in Servers
Some servers allow users to post marked NSFW (Not Safe For Work) content.
To help limit this:
- Ensure your child’s account is set with the correct age (under 18)
- If they’re under 18, Discord automatically restricts access to NSFW-marked channels
- Encourage them to report inappropriate content
🖥️ Step 5: Use Parental Controls on the Device
While Discord doesn’t have its own parent control dashboard, you can set limits using:
Windows 10/11 Family Settings:
- Go to family.microsoft.com
- Set time limits, block inappropriate websites, and monitor usage
iOS Screen Time:
- Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions
Android Family Link:
- Download Google Family Link to manage screen time and app access
👀 Step 6: Talk About Online Safety
No setting is perfect. The best protection is a mix of tech and conversation:
- Discuss how to handle unwanted messages or invites
- Encourage them to block/report suspicious users
- Keep communication open so they feel safe coming to you
Final Thoughts
While Discord doesn’t offer traditional parental controls, there are still plenty of ways to reduce risks and promote a safer experience. Start by adjusting privacy settings, supervising account activity, and using device-level tools to stay informed.
If your child is going to be on Discord, being involved is the best control you have.