Setting Up Screen Time
Screen Time does more than just limit how much time can be spent on an app or device. It also allows you to manage content restrictions. Even if you don't want to set time limits, you should still consider using Screen Time to block things like adult content.
Method 1: During Device Setup
- When setting up your child's device, tap "Continue" when you see the Screen Time screen
- Select "This is My Child's [device]"
- Follow the prompts to set up restrictions
Method 2: Through Family Sharing
- Go to Settings > [your name] > Family Sharing
- Tap Screen Time
- Choose your child's name
- Tap "Turn On Screen Time"
Key Settings to Configure
1. Downtime
Schedule periods when apps and notifications are blocked. Only phone calls and apps you choose to allow will be available. You can:
- Set a schedule for specific days
- Block everything except allowed apps
- Allow 1 more minute, 15 more minutes, or ignore limit for today when your child requests more time
2. App Limits
Set daily time limits for app categories like games, social media, or specific apps. When the limit is reached, apps become unavailable. Features include:
- Set different limits for specific apps or entire categories
- Customize limits for individual days
- Block apps immediately after the limit is reached
- Share app limits across all devices
3. Communication Limits
Control who your children can communicate with throughout the day and during downtime. Options include:
- Allow communication with everyone, contacts only, or specific groups
- Set different rules for normal hours and downtime
- Manage group communication settings
- Control who can be added to contacts
4. Content & Privacy
Content Restrictions:
- Set age-appropriate content ratings for apps, books, TV shows, and movies
- Block inappropriate web content
- Restrict explicit language in music and podcasts
- Control multiplayer games and adding game friends
Privacy Controls:
- Location Services - Control which apps can access location
- Contacts, Photos, and Share My Location permissions
- Microphone and Camera access
- Advertising and Analytics settings
Purchase & Download Controls:
- Require permission for purchases
- Block in-app purchases
- Control app installations and deletions
- Manage iTunes & App Store purchases
System Settings:
- Restrict account changes
- Control passcode modifications
- Manage cellular data changes
- Background app activities
Screen Time Passcode
Create a dedicated Screen Time passcode that's different from the device passcode. This prevents your child from changing Screen Time settings. Store this passcode securely - if you forget it, you'll need to erase and reset the device to remove it.
Managing Multiple Devices
If your child has multiple devices, you can:
- Use the same Screen Time settings across all devices
- View total time spent across all devices
- Manage all devices from your own device through Family Sharing