How to set up Screen Time for your child (Family Sharing)

This is the short version of the full setup in our iPhone parental controls guide, focused on getting Screen Time working quickly through Family Sharing. Menu wording changes with iOS updates, so look for similar names if yours differ.

Before you start

You need:

• Your own iPhone with a recent version of iOS
• Your Apple ID
• Your child's iPhone or iPad, ready to be set up or already in use

Step 1: Add your child to Family Sharing

1. On your iPhone open Settings and tap your name.
2. Tap Family, then add a member.
3. Choose Create Child Account and follow the steps, including your child's name and birthday.
4. Confirm the payment method and permissions you want.

If your child already has an Apple ID, you can invite them instead, and they accept on their device.

Step 2: Turn on Screen Time

1. Go to Settings, Screen Time.
2. Under Family, tap your child's name.
3. Tap Turn On Screen Time.

Step 3: Set the basics

Apple will ask you to set up:

• Downtime: the hours when most apps are off. See Downtime on iPhone.
• App Limits: daily time per category. See App limits on iPhone.
• Content & Privacy: what they can see, buy and who can contact them.

Step 4: Create the passcode

Set a Screen Time passcode only you know. See Screen Time passcode.

Step 5: Turn on Ask to Buy

In Family Sharing settings you can require your approval for downloads and purchases. This also helps with in-app spending.

Step 6: Check it works

On your child's device, try opening a limited app after the limit and see what happens. Check Downtime shows at the right hours.

Review regularly

Open Screen Time on your own phone once a week to see how the week went. Use it to start a conversation rather than as a score.

Beyond the settings

Settings enforce limits; they do not teach children to manage time. Pair them with clear family rules, and consider letting them earn time.