How to Setup Parental Controls on iOS

Enable parental controls on your child’s iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch using Content & Privacy Restrictions in Screen Time. This allows you to block or limit specific apps and features, as well as restrict settings for explicit content, purchases, downloads, and privacy. Ensure your parental control settings sync across devices by updating all devices in your Family Sharing group to the latest software version before activating or modifying the controls.

Set Content & Privacy Restrictions

1. Open Settings and select Screen Time.

2. Turn on Screen Time and choose between “This is My [Device]” or “This is My Child’s [Device].”

• If you’re the parent or guardian of your device and want to prevent another family member from changing your settings, tap Use Screen Time Passcode to create a passcode, then re-enter the passcode to confirm. After you confirm your passcode you’ll be asked to enter your Apple ID and password. This can be used to reset your Screen Time passcode if you forget it.
• If you’re setting up Screen Time on your child’s device, follow the prompts until you get to Screen Time Passcode and enter a passcode. Re-enter the passcode to confirm. After you confirm your passcode you’ll be asked to enter your Apple ID and password. This can be used to reset your Screen Time passcode if you forget it.

3. Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions. If asked, enter your passcode, then turn on Content & Privacy Restrictions.

Select a passcode distinct from the one used to unlock your device. To modify or disable the passcode on your child’s device, go to Settings > Screen Time > [your child’s name]. Choose either Change Screen Time Passcode or Turn Off Screen Time Passcode, and authenticate the adjustment using Face ID, Touch ID, or your device passcode.

If using iOS 16 or a newer version, during Screen Time setup for a child’s device, you can establish age-related restrictions for content in apps, books, TV shows, and movies by following the onscreen instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Q: Can I block explicit content in Safari using Parental Controls?

A: Yes, you can restrict explicit content in Safari by adjusting Content & Privacy Restrictions under Screen Time settings.

2. Q: How do I limit app usage for my child on iOS?

A: Utilize App Limits in Screen Time settings to control and set time restrictions for specific apps.

3. Q: Can I restrict in-app purchases using Parental Controls?

A: Yes, you can prevent unintended purchases by enabling restrictions for in-app purchases in Content & Privacy Restrictions.

4. Q: Are there options to filter age-appropriate content in the App Store?

A: Yes, you can set age restrictions for app downloads and purchases in the Screen Time settings.

5.Q: How do I manage explicit music and movies with Parental Controls?

A: Customize content restrictions in Screen Time to prevent explicit music and limit access to movies with specific ratings.

6.Q: Can I receive reports on my child’s device usage?

A: Yes, Screen Time provides activity reports, allowing you to monitor your child’s device usage.

7. Q: What should I do if I forget my Parental Controls passcode?

A: You can reset the passcode through your Apple ID settings or contact Apple Support for assistance.

8. Q: Can I set different restrictions for multiple iOS devices within a family?

A: Yes, you can manage and customize Parental Controls individually for each iOS device linked to your family sharing account.