HomeBlogBlogiPhone & iPad Parental Controls Checklist for Kids

iPhone & iPad Parental Controls Checklist for Kids

What should be on a checklist for setting up parental controls on iPhone and iPad for kids?

A solid parental-controls checklist for iPhone and iPad covers four areas: secure the device, lock down Apple settings, filter content, and set clear limits. Starting with a step-by-step plan helps ensure nothing important gets missed—especially when multiple devices are involved.

1) Prep the device and accounts

Update iOS/iPadOS to the latest version, then confirm your child has their own Apple ID (not yours). Turn on two-factor authentication for the parent Apple ID and review what’s signed in under Settings > Apple ID. If you’re using Family Sharing, add your child to the family group so approvals and limits can work consistently.

2) Lock Screen Time with a parent passcode

Enable Screen Time and set a Screen Time passcode that’s different from the device unlock code. Add a recovery method you’ll remember. On iPad shared by siblings, verify the right child profile is being managed (or consider separate devices to keep limits accurate).

3) Set content and privacy restrictions

Under Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions, block explicit content, set age-appropriate ratings for apps, movies, TV, and books, and restrict web content (limit adult sites or allow only approved websites). Lock privacy permissions too: prevent changes to Location Services, Contacts, Photos, Microphone, Camera, Bluetooth sharing, and ad tracking where available.

4) Control purchases and app installs

Turn on “Ask to Buy” in Family Sharing and require a password for purchases. Disable installing/deleting apps and in-app purchases if needed. Review subscriptions and payment methods connected to the family organizer account.

5) Create healthy time limits

Set Downtime for sleep/school hours, App Limits for high-distraction categories, and Always Allowed for essentials like calling parents. Consider setting Communication Limits so only approved contacts can message during Downtime.

6) Review safety features and ongoing maintenance

Configure Find My for the device (and optionally location sharing), review Safari settings and search restrictions, and schedule a monthly check-in to adjust limits as your child matures. For a deeper, kid-focused setup guide and printable checklist, visit this parental controls checklist.

FAQ

How do I stop my child from changing Screen Time settings?

Set a Screen Time passcode and enable Content & Privacy Restrictions. Then block “Account Changes” and other “Allow Changes” options so key settings can’t be edited without your approval.