A washing machine and child lock control method therefor. The method comprises: S1, receiving a child lock signal; S2, monitoring in real time whether a cover of a washing machine is open, and if yes, executing S3; S3, controlling the washing machine to discharge water when it is detected that cover open duration reaches a set duration; and S4, controlling the washing machine to automatically power off when the water discharge is completed. After a child lock function of the washing machine is enabled, all buttons on an operation panel are locked, thereby preventing influence on the normal operation of the washing machine or the occurrence of risks due to a misoperation by a child. If the cover is open during the operation process, the washing machine can alarm and timely discharge water in a drum, thereby preventing the occurrence of risks if a child enters the drum.