How to set up an iPad for a child

Configure an iPad for a child using Screen Time, Apple ID for Kids, and Family Sharing to ensure a secure and controlled digital environment.

1. Create a child account via Family Sharing. On your personal device, open Settings and tap your name at the top. Select Family Sharing, tap Add Member, then choose Create Child Account. Follow the on-screen prompts to establish the child's Apple ID, which links their device to your administrative control.
2. Perform a factory reset on the iPad. If the iPad was previously used, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad. Tap Erase All Content and Settings to return the device to the initial setup screen. This ensures no residual data or accounts conflict with the new child configuration.
3. Initialize the device with the child's ID. Follow the iPad setup prompts until you reach the Apple ID sign-in screen. Sign in using the newly created child Apple ID credentials. Continue through the remaining steps, opting for Screen Time setup when prompted.
4. Enable and configure Screen Time. Navigate to Settings > Screen Time on the child's iPad. Tap Use Screen Time Passcode and set a four-digit code that is different from the iPad unlock passcode. This prevents the child from altering restrictions or extending time limits.
5. Set Content & Privacy Restrictions. Inside the Screen Time menu, select Content & Privacy Restrictions and toggle the switch to ON. Tap Content Restrictions to set age-based ratings for movies, TV shows, and apps. Set Web Content to Limit Adult Websites to automatically filter out inappropriate material.
6. Establish App Limits and Downtime. In the Screen Time menu, tap App Limits to set daily time budgets for specific categories like games or social media. Select Downtime to schedule a specific window where only permitted apps are accessible, ensuring the iPad is unavailable during sleep hours.