How to Configure Screen Time for a Child's Device

Secure a child's device before gifting. Learn how to enable Screen Time, set content restrictions, and manage app access limits effectively.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.