How to Set Up Parental Controls to Get Kids off iPad, Other Devices

Parents have various options to restrict their child's iPad, iPhone, or other gadgets. Setting up parental controls can help regulate your child's screen time and keep them away from sensitive content.

When more kids and schools have remote or distance learning options, gadgets and screen time are pretty common to children. Alongside the benefits of staying safe within the comforts of one's home, there is the responsibility of keeping children safe from the dangers that technology brings.

Some of the usual concerns why parental controls are necessary are sensitive content online, excessive screen time, accidental purchases, and the need for privacy restrictions. If your child is using an Apple device, here are some things you can do to set up parental controls:

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Set up Screen Time for Family

In the Settings app of your Apple device, click the Screen Time option and turn it on. After going over what this feature is about, tap Continue. Follow the prompts until you get a passcode.

"This Is My Child's iPhone."

If you are setting up additional parental controls regarding your child's Screen Time, choose the option, "This is My Child's iPhone." You can configure the specific hours you want your kid's iPhone to be offline by tapping the "Downtime" button.

Phone calls and text messages will still go through even when your child's iPhone is on "Downtime." You may want to select the specific time when you want your kids to stop using social media or playing games so that they can eat their meals or study their lessons on time.

App Limits

This is another option you can select to choose the length of time your child uses an app. Whether it is a social media app or game, you can decide and click "Set App Limit."

Content and Privacy Restrictions and App Store Purchases

You can also activate the Content and Privacy Restrictions option by toggling it on. Afterward, create a passcode you know, but your child doesn't know to access the Screen Time parental controls. Also, click "Don't Allow" in the Settings under the Content and Privacy Restrictions and avoid unwanted iTunes and App Store Purchases.

On the other hand, if your child uses an Android phone or tablet, you can create a Google Account via the Family Link. With Family Link, you can stay updated when they use their device or account. If your child uses or manages their account, you can set up parental controls instead on Google Play. 

You can then restrict what content or app can be downloaded or purchased. First, open the Google Play app, tap the profile icon, and click Settings. After, tap on the Family option and turn on the Parental Control option. Then, it would be best if you created a PIN that your child cannot access. Afterward, select the type of content you want to filter or be restricted. 

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