How to set up parental controls on iPhone
This ten-step guide helps parents and guardians set up Apple Screen Time with practical controls that can be reviewed and adjusted as children grow. Follow the sequence once, then return monthly to confirm settings still match your household rules.
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1. Enable Screen Time
Open Settings, select Family or Screen Time, and choose your child profile. Turn Screen Time on before changing any detailed controls. Apple overview: Use parental controls to manage your child's iPhone or iPad.
2. Set the parent passcode
Create a Screen Time passcode that your child does not know. Do not reuse the device unlock code. This prevents quick bypass changes in settings. Apple guidance is included in Screen Time setup.
3. Configure Communication Limits
Set who your child can contact during allowed time and downtime. This helps limit unknown contact routes while keeping trusted contacts available. Setup details: Set up parental controls with Family Sharing.
4. Turn on Communication Safety
Enable Communication Safety for warning prompts around explicit image content in supported apps. This is not a replacement for discussion, but it adds useful friction. Apple reference: Communication Safety guidance.
5. Set Web Content limits
In Content & Privacy Restrictions, set Web Content to Limit Adult Websites or an approved list model where needed. Test with a child account after saving to confirm behaviour. Apple reference: Use parental controls on your child's iPhone.
6. Apply App Limits
Set category limits for social, video, and games based on your household routine. Keep limits realistic so children are more likely to follow them. Apple reference: Set up Screen Time with Family Sharing.
7. Set Downtime
Use Downtime for sleep and homework protection windows. Keep emergency contact options available through approved apps. Apple reference: Screen Time parental controls.
8. Set Always Allowed apps
Allow core safety apps, calls, and essential school tools during Downtime. This avoids lockouts when children need to contact parents and guardians. Apple reference: Allowed apps and features.
9. Configure Family Sharing supervision
Ensure the child account is in Family Sharing so controls can be managed from the parent device. Check that role permissions are set to parent or guardian where needed. Apple reference: Family Sharing parental controls.
10. Enable Ask to Buy
Turn on Ask to Buy to require approval for app installs and in app purchases. This reduces accidental spending and helps review app suitability before install. Apple reference: Approve what kids buy with Ask to Buy.
Honest limits
Screen Time is strong, but children can still encounter risk through shared devices, unmanaged accounts, or peer networks. Review settings and behaviour together, not just once at setup.
How to remove this later
Go to Settings, open Screen Time for the child account, and reduce or disable controls one category at a time. Keep communication and purchase checks in place until you are confident independent use is stable.
FAQ
How long does this setup take?
Usually 15 to 20 minutes including testing.
Can children disable Screen Time?
Not without the parent passcode, unless other account settings are weak.
Should we use only Screen Time?
No. Add network and account layers for stronger coverage.
Does this work on iPad and Mac?
Yes, with compatible account and Family Sharing configuration.
How often should we review settings?
Review monthly and after major app or school-year changes.