Configure PlayStation Family Settings

PlayStation's Family Management system lets you create child accounts with built-in restrictions. You control game ratings, online communication, spending limits, and play time. All settings can be managed from the console or from the PlayStation website on any device.

Step 1: Set Up Family Management

First, your PSN account needs to be the Family Manager. Then create a child account:

1. Go to Settings > Family and Parental Controls > Family Management
2. Select Add Family Member
3. Choose Add a Child
4. Enter your child's date of birth (this determines default restrictions)
5. Create their account with a username and password

You can also manage family settings at playstation.com/acct/family from any web browser.

Step 2: Set Game Age Restrictions

Under Family Management, select your child's account, then Parental Controls > Age Level for Games:

• Level 1-2: Early Childhood (EC) only
• Level 3-4: Everyone (E)
• Level 5-6: Everyone 10+ (E10+)
• Level 7-8: Teen (T)
• Level 9: Mature (M)
• Level 10-11: Adults Only (AO) - not recommended for children

Games above the set level will require the Family Manager's password to launch.

Step 3: Restrict Online Communication

Under Communication and User-Generated Content:

• Voice Chat: Set to "Blocked" to disable all voice communication
• Text Chat and Messages: Set to "Blocked" or "Friends Only"
• Viewing Content Created by Other Players: Restrict user-generated content

These settings apply across all games, not just individual titles.

Step 4: Set Monthly Spending Limit

Under Parental Controls > Monthly Spending Limit, set a dollar amount (including $0). Your child can only spend up to this amount per month on the PlayStation Store. Any purchase beyond this requires Family Manager approval.

For maximum control, set the limit to $0 and use PlayStation Store gift cards for approved purchases.

Step 5: Configure Play Time Controls

Under Play Time Settings:

• Time Zone: Set your local time zone
• Restrict Play Time: Enable to set limits
• Duration: Set maximum daily play time
• Playable Hours: Set specific hours when the console can be used
• When Play Time Ends: Choose "Notify Only" or "Log Out" to enforce limits

Step 6: Restrict Web Browser

PlayStation has a built-in web browser. To restrict it:

1. Go to Settings > Family and Parental Controls > PS5/PS4 Console Restrictions
2. Enter your system restriction passcode
3. Set Use of PlayStation VR / Web Browser to Not Allowed

Step 7: Set a Console Restriction Passcode

This prevents anyone from changing parental control settings on the console itself:

1. Go to Settings > Family and Parental Controls > PS5/PS4 Console Restrictions
2. Set a 4-digit passcode (don't use your child's birthday or something obvious)

Bottom Line

PlayStation's family management system handles all parental control needs. Create a child account under your family, set appropriate age restrictions for games, disable or limit online communication, set spending to $0 or your preferred limit, and use play time controls to enforce limits. Manage everything from the web at playstation.com/acct/family. No third-party apps needed.