How to set up Screen Time on iPad

Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
iPadOS 18.4 - iPad Pro M4
You will need
iPad, Apple ID, passcode enabled

Step by step

  1. 1 min

    Enable Screen Time

    Open the Settings app on your iPad. Navigate to the Screen Time tab in the left-hand sidebar and tap Turn on Screen Time. Select Continue to confirm you wish to begin monitoring your device activity.

  2. 1 min

    Set a Screen Time passcode

    Tap Use Screen Time Passcode within the Screen Time menu. Enter a four-digit code, then re-enter it to verify. This passcode prevents others from changing your settings or extending usage limits.

    Note: Use a code distinct from your device unlock passcode for maximum security.
  3. 1 min

    Define app limits

    Select App Limits from the menu and tap Add Limit. Choose specific categories or individual applications to restrict, then tap Next to set a daily time duration. Once the timer expires, the apps will lock until the following day.

  4. 1 min

    Configure content and privacy

    Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions and toggle the switch to the On position. Use this section to block explicit content, prevent in-app purchases, or restrict access to specific websites via the Web Content menu.

    Note: These settings are particularly effective for parental control profiles.
  5. 30 sec

    Analyze activity reports

    Return to the main Screen Time screen to view your See All App & Website Activity dashboard. You can toggle between Daily and Weekly views to identify which categories or apps consume the most time on your device.