Use Screen Time to manage your child's iPhone or iPad - Apple Support

Managing Child Device Usage with Screen Time

• Core Functionality: Screen Time allows parents to monitor app/website usage, schedule downtime, set app limits, and restrict content to ensure age-appropriate device use.
• Setup Methods:
  • With Family Sharing: Manage settings directly from your own Apple device (iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Vision Pro). Ensure all devices are updated to the latest software for proper syncing.
  • Without Family Sharing: If the child is 13–17 (age varies by region), you can set up and manage controls directly on their device using a 4-digit passcode.
• Key Monitoring Features:
  • Activity Summary: View data on total time spent, app/website usage, device pickups, and notification frequency.
• Parental Control Tools:
  • Downtime: Blocks apps and notifications during scheduled periods (excluding allowed apps and phone calls).
  • App Limits: Sets time caps for specific apps or categories (e.g., games, social media).
  • Always Allowed: Defines contacts and apps accessible during downtime.
  • Screen Distance: Prompts children to hold the device further from their face to protect eye health.
  • Communication Limits: Controls who the child can contact via Phone, FaceTime, Messages, and iCloud contacts.
  • Communication Safety: Provides on-device guidance regarding sensitive photos and videos.
  • Content & Privacy Restrictions: Blocks inappropriate content and prevents unauthorized changes to privacy settings.
• Exception Requests: Children can request additional time or access when a limit is reached; parents can approve or deny these requests directly from their own device or the child's device.
• Emergency Access: Regardless of limits, children can always contact emergency numbers identified by their cellular carrier.