Letting children use an iPhone or iPad can be a great way to entertain, educate, and connect—but it also requires setting up proper boundaries. Apple’s Screen Time and Parental Controls make it easy to configure a safe, age-appropriate experience for your child. In this guide, you’ll learn step-by-step how to set up Kids Mode on an iPhone or iPad in 2025.
1. Create a Child Account with Family Sharing
To get started, create an Apple ID for your child:
- Go to Settings > [Your Name] > Family Sharing
- Tap Add Member and choose Create Child Account
- Follow the prompts to set up the Apple ID, birthdate, and privacy preferences
This links your child’s device to your Apple account and lets you manage their settings remotely.
2. Turn On Screen Time for Your Child
Screen Time is Apple’s built-in tool for managing device usage and setting boundaries:
- On your child’s iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > Screen Time
- Tap Turn On Screen Time, then choose This is My Child’s iPhone/iPad
- Set a Screen Time Passcode—this prevents them from changing settings
From here, you can control multiple features.
3. Set Daily App Limits
Limit how long your child can use specific apps each day:
- Go to Settings > Screen Time > App Limits
- Tap Add Limit and choose categories (Games, Social, Entertainment, etc.)
- Set daily time limits (e.g., 1 hour for games)
Once time runs out, the app is locked unless you enter your passcode.
4. Schedule Downtime
Downtime defines when the device is mostly unavailable—ideal for bedtime or homework time:
- Go to Screen Time > Downtime
- Choose start and end times (e.g., 8 PM – 7 AM)
- During downtime, only apps you allow will work (e.g., Phone, Messages)
5. Block Inappropriate Content
To restrict adult content or certain websites:
- Go to Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions
- Turn on the toggle at the top
- Tap Content Restrictions to:
- Limit web content (e.g., allowed websites only)
- Restrict explicit music, books, or movies
- Choose appropriate age ratings for apps
You can also block app downloads or in-app purchases in the same menu.
6. Limit Communication
Apple lets you control who your child can communicate with via Phone, Messages, and FaceTime:
- Go to Screen Time > Communication Limits
- Set rules for during allowed time and during downtime
- Choose to allow only contacts or even specific people
This is helpful for young children who should only talk to parents, family, or teachers.
7. Prevent App Deletion or Account Changes
To keep your child from deleting apps or changing critical settings:
- Go to Content & Privacy Restrictions
- Tap iTunes & App Store Purchases
- Set Deleting Apps and Installing Apps to Don’t Allow
- Disable Account Changes
This keeps your parental setup intact.
8. Use Ask to Buy
With Family Sharing, children can request to buy apps, and you’ll get a notification to approve or deny:
- Go to Settings > [Your Name] > Family Sharing
- Select your child > tap Ask to Buy > Enable it
This prevents surprise charges or unwanted app installations.
9. Monitor Usage Remotely
You can view your child’s screen time reports from your own device:
- Go to Settings > Screen Time > [Child’s Name]
- See daily and weekly reports
- Adjust settings remotely from your phone
Setting up Kids Mode on an iPhone or iPad is simple—but powerful. Apple’s tools give parents full control over screen time, content, and privacy. With a few thoughtful restrictions, you can create a safer, more balanced digital experience for your child—while still allowing fun, learning, and communication.
