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How to set up parental controls on a PlayStation 4

Setting up a PlayStation® for your kids can be exciting, but you may also want to ensure they’re gaming safely. With built-in parental controls, you can manage screen time, restrict purchases, and filter content to create a safer gaming environment.

At Asurion, we help families set up their devices every day. Here’s how to enable PS4™ parental controls and customize the settings to meet your needs.

Why use PlayStation parental controls?

Parental controls are a great way to ensure your kids are having a safe and age-appropriate gaming experience. With PlayStation parental controls, you can:

  • Manage playtime. Set time limits to balance screen time.
  • Restrict content. Block games, apps, and movies based on age ratings.
  • Control spending. Prevent unauthorized purchases from the PlayStation Store.
  • Monitor activity. Get reports on your child’s gaming habits.

How to set up parental controls on a PS4

If you want to manage what your child can access on their PS4, setting up parental controls is a great place to start. Here's how:

  1. Create a child account:
    • Go to Settings > Parental Controls/Family Management.
    • Select Family Management > Add Family Member > Create User for Child.
    • Enter your child’s details and follow the prompts.
  2. Set parental controls:
    • In Family Management, choose your child’s account.
    • Select Parental Controls > Restrict Use of PS4 Features.
    • Adjust content restrictions, communication settings, and spending limits.
  3. Set playtime limits:
    • Go to Parental Controls/Family Management > Playtime Settings.
    • Set daily limits, playtime notifications, and view reports on playtime.

Tips for using PlayStation parental controls effectively

  • Set clear rules. Talk with your child about the screen time limits and why they’re important.
  • Regularly review reports. Keep track of your child’s activity to ensure they’re gaming responsibly.
  • Adjust controls as needed. As your child grows, you can update settings to allow more freedom.

FAQ

Can I set time limits for multiple children on the same PlayStation?

Yes, each child account can have its own set of parental controls and time limits.

How can I block inappropriate content on PlayStation?

In the parental control settings, you can restrict content based on age ratings for games, apps, and media.

Can I prevent my child from making purchases on PlayStation?

Absolutely. You can set spending limits or disable purchases entirely in the Family Management settings.

How do I monitor my child’s gaming activity on PlayStation?

You can view activity reports from the Family Management section, showing playtime and games played.

*The Asurion® trademarks and logos are the property of Asurion, LLC. All rights reserved. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Asurion is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by any of the respective owners of the other trademarks appearing herein.*

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