How to create a child account on PlayStation

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Creating a child account on PlayStation is essential for managing parental controls and ensuring a safe gaming environment for younger players. This process can be done through the PlayStation console, the PlayStation App, or the PlayStation website, depending on your preference.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before creating a child account on PlayStation, ensure you have the following:
  • •A PlayStation Network (PSN) account with administrative privileges.
  • •Access to a PlayStation console (PS4 or PS5) or the PlayStation App.
  • •An internet connection.
  • •The child's date of birth for age verification.

Method 1: Creating a Child Account via PlayStation Console

This method is ideal for users who have direct access to a PlayStation console.
  • •Step 1: Turn on your PlayStation console and log in to your main account.
  • •Step 2: Navigate to 'Settings' from the home screen (gear icon in the top right corner).
  • •Step 3: Select 'Users and Accounts'.
  • •Step 4: Choose 'Family Management'.
  • •Step 5: Select 'Add Family Member'.
  • •Step 6: Choose 'Create User' and then select 'Child'.
  • •Step 7: Enter the child's date of birth and follow the prompts to complete the setup.
  • •Step 8: Review the parental controls settings and adjust them as necessary.
  • •Step 9: Confirm the account creation by checking for a success message.

For Windows 11

If you are using the PlayStation App on Windows 11, follow these steps:
  • •Open the PlayStation App.
  • •Log in with your main account.
  • •Click on your profile icon in the top right corner.
  • •Select 'Family Management' from the dropdown menu.
  • •Click 'Add Family Member' and follow the on-screen instructions.

For Windows 10

If you are using the PlayStation App on Windows 10, the steps are similar:
  • •Launch the PlayStation App.
  • •Sign in with your main account.
  • •Click on your profile icon located at the top right.
  • •Select 'Family Management' from the options.
  • •Click 'Add Family Member' and follow the prompts to create a child account.

Method 2: Creating a Child Account via the PlayStation Website

This method is useful for users who prefer using a web browser.
  • •Step 1: Go to the official PlayStation website (https://www.playstation.com).
  • •Step 2: Log in to your PSN account.
  • •Step 3: Click on your profile icon in the top right corner.
  • •Step 4: Select 'Account Settings'.
  • •Step 5: Navigate to 'Family Management'.
  • •Step 6: Click 'Add Family Member'.
  • •Step 7: Choose 'Create User' and then select 'Child'.
  • •Step 8: Enter the child's date of birth and complete the required fields.
  • •Step 9: Review and adjust parental controls as needed.
  • •Step 10: Confirm the account creation by checking for a success message.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while creating a child account, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Date of Birth is Invalid' - Solution: Ensure the date entered meets the minimum age requirement for a child account (under 18).
  • •Issue: 'Unable to Add Family Member' - Fix: Check if your PSN account has the necessary permissions and is not restricted.
  • •Problem: 'Account Creation Failed' - Workaround: Try restarting your console or browser and attempt the process again.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Here are some power user tips to streamline the account creation process:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: 'Alt + Tab' - Quickly switch between applications while using the PlayStation App on Windows.
  • •Command line: N/A - Not applicable for this process.
  • •Hidden feature: 'Parental Controls' - Access these settings directly from the Family Management section to customize restrictions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best experience, always ensure your main account is set up with the latest parental controls before creating a child account.