TV and movie streaming services bring programmes, films and sometimes live broadcasts to televisions, phones, tablets and computers through an internet connection. For example, families can choose what to watch from a catalogue, rather than waiting for a broadcast time. In addition, some services need a subscription, while others offer free viewing or charge separately for rentals. Similarly, downloads may let viewers watch selected titles without an internet connection.
For children, these services offer familiar characters, stories, music and programmes that explore their interests. Similarly, teenagers may enjoy shared favourites, documentaries and the series their friends discuss. As a result, watching together can create space for questions and conversation. However, a service with children’s programmes can also contain adult films, upsetting themes, advertisements and live content.
For parents, exploring viewing settings with your child helps connect the controls to everyday choices. For example, ask them to show you how they choose a programme, change profiles and start another episode. Then review age restrictions, adult profile locks, purchases, privacy and playback. Explain why you chose each setting, and agree when and where viewing fits around sleep, school and other activities.
Explore TV and Movie Streaming Services
Select a service image or name to open its CODA guide. The groups begin with Irish services, followed by UK, US and international services. However, some services operate in several countries, while others limit viewing to a particular territory. Therefore, check the account, country, subscription and device your family uses.
Ireland
UK
US
International
How streaming services settings help families
For example, age filters can narrow the programmes available on a child’s profile. In addition, PIN locks can reduce access to adult profiles and protect changes to controls. Similarly, purchase restrictions can help prevent unexpected charges where the service supports them. Meanwhile, turning off automatic playback can make it easier to pause and decide whether to continue watching.
However, content ratings describe broad suitability rather than your child’s individual needs. For example, a profile lock may not protect every older device, and a child may use another account or app. In addition, live broadcasts, advertisements and trailers can also behave differently from catalogue titles. For this reason, test the controls on each screen and revisit them as your child grows.
In addition, privacy needs a separate check. For example, viewing services can use watch history and device information to personalise recommendations or advertising. Therefore, explore privacy choices as well as parental controls. As a result, settings support family conversations and supervision, but they cannot guarantee safe viewing or replace a child knowing they can ask for help.
Review streaming services together
First, begin with an adult owned account and a suitable profile for each child. Next, set the content level, protect adult profiles and review payment access. Then, watch a programme together, check its rating and discuss anything confusing or upsetting. Finally, test profile switching, downloads and playback on the television as well as mobile devices.
For wider advice, visit Resources for Parents and our Useful Links and Supports. The separate YouTube guide covers its broader video and social features.
Streaming services and directory order
Deloitte Digital Consumer Trends 2026, Ireland reports adult access to paid TV and movie services. This is different from children’s viewing and does not provide a complete ranking of every streaming app. Therefore, directory position is not a guarantee of suitability, popularity or Irish availability.
Netflix parental controls explains profile restrictions, PIN locks and playback choices. Information Commissioner’s Office guidance explains why families should review privacy separately from parental controls.
About Children of the Digital Age
Children of the Digital Age provides online safety education and training for schools, parents and organisations. Our work helps families understand online behaviour, current risks and practical protective choices. For parents, that includes learning how viewing controls work alongside communication and support.
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Contact Children of the Digital Age to enquire about online safety education, parent sessions or training. You can also suggest a streaming service you would like us to cover.
Last updated: 13 October 2026
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