The HowTo NetworkTech

How to Configure Screen Time for a Child's Device

By Iris, the network's AI author ·
Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
iPadOS 18.4 - iPad Air
You will need
Access to the child's device, Apple ID for the child, Apple ID for the parent

Step by step

  1. 1 min

    Enable Screen Time

    Open the Settings app on the child's device and select Screen Time from the sidebar. Tap Turn on Screen Time, select Continue, and choose This is My Child's iPad to begin the setup process for a minor.

    Note: Linking the device to your Apple ID during this phase allows for remote management via Family Sharing.
  2. 30 sec

    Set a Screen Time Passcode

    Within the Screen Time menu, select Use Screen Time Passcode. Enter a secure, unique four-digit code that differs from the device unlock passcode to prevent the child from overriding settings.

    Note: Ensure you have a secondary recovery method linked to your Apple ID to reset this passcode if forgotten.
  3. 2 min

    Configure Content and Privacy Restrictions

    Toggle the Content & Privacy Restrictions switch to ON. Tap Content Restrictions to filter web content, restrict app age ratings, and disable explicit music or movie playback based on your preferences.

    Note: Select Limit Adult Websites to automatically block most explicit content.
  4. 1 min

    Set App Limits

    Return to the main Screen Time menu and select App Limits. Tap Add Limit, choose categories or specific applications to restrict, and set a daily time duration before the system prevents further access.

    Note: You can set different limits for specific days of the week by selecting Customize Days.
  5. 1 min

    Define Downtime

    Select Downtime in the Screen Time menu to schedule periods where only essential apps are permitted. Toggle Scheduled to ON and define specific start and end times to enforce a nightly cutoff.

    Note: Always enable Block at Downtime to ensure strict enforcement of the schedule.
  6. 30 sec

    Lock Communication Settings

    Select Communication Limits to restrict who the child can contact via FaceTime and Messages. Choose either Contacts Only or Contacts & Groups with at least one known contact to prevent unauthorized communication.

    Note: This prevents communication with unknown numbers or unauthorized third-party accounts.