How to Set Up Parental Controls on iPhone and iPad for Kids - Part 2

is scheduled correctly - Look for web versions being used - Ensure settings are syncing across devices - Check for multiple Apple IDs "I Can't See My Child's Screen Time" - Confirm Family Sharing is set up - Check both devices are online - Verify child's age in Apple ID - Toggle "Share Across Devices" - Reset Screen Time and reconfigure "Purchased Apps Despite Restrictions" - Check if restrictions were temporarily disabled - Look for gift card redemptions - Verify "Ask to Buy" is enabled - Check for saved payment methods - Contact Apple for refunds ### Having the Right Conversations Technology controls work best combined with open communication: For Younger Kids (5-10): "These settings help you learn to use your iPad wisely. Just like we have rules about bedtime and eating vegetables, we have rules about screen time. It's my job to help you grow up healthy and safe." For Tweens (11-13): "I know some of these limits feel restrictive. Let's talk about which ones bother you most and why. As you show responsibility, we can adjust them together. This isn't about not trusting you—it's about helping you build good habits." For Teens (14-17): "You're getting older and need more independence. These basic safeguards are for your protection, not to spy on you. Let's review them together and see what makes sense to adjust. I trust you, but I also know the internet can be a challenging place." ### Graduating Restrictions: Building Trust Over Time Parental controls should evolve with your child's maturity: 6-Month Review Cycle: - Document current settings - Discuss what's working/not working - Identify earned privileges - Adjust incrementally - Maintain safety basics Trust-Building Milestones: - Consistently respects current limits: Extend by 15-30 minutes - Proactively shares concerning content: Reduce content restrictions - Manages time independently: Remove some app limits - Demonstrates good judgment: Allow social media access - Helps siblings with tech safety: Graduate to monitoring only Never Fully Remove: - Purchase restrictions until 18 - Basic location sharing for emergencies - Extreme content filtering - Communication during true Downtime hours ### Preparing for iOS Updates Apple regularly updates parental controls. Stay prepared: Before Major Updates: - Screenshot current settings - Read Apple's update notes - Wait a week for bug reports - Update parent device first New Features to Watch (iOS 17+): - Screen Distance reminders - Enhanced Communication Safety - Improved app limit customization - Live location sharing - Sensitive content warnings Maintaining Control: - Join Apple Family Sharing forums - Follow parental control blogs - Test new features gradually - Keep backup restriction plans ### Emergency Protocols Sometimes immediate action is needed: If You Discover Inappropriate Content: 1. Stay calm, don't overreact 2. Screenshot evidence if needed 3. Temporarily disable device: Settings > Screen Time > Turn Off Screen Time 4. Have conversation when emotions settle 5. Rebuild restrictions together If Cyberbullying Is Occurring: 1. Document everything 2. Block offending contacts 3. Report to platforms 4. Consider involving school 5. Seek professional help if needed If Limits Are Repeatedly Broken: 1. Change Screen Time passcode 2. Remove device temporarily 3. Reset to factory settings if compromised 4. Start with maximum restrictions 5. Rebuild trust slowly ### Resources and Support Apple Resources: - Apple Support: 1-800-APL-CARE - Family Sharing Help: support.apple.com/family-sharing - Screen Time Guide: support.apple.com/guide/iphone/screen-time Third-Party Resources: - Common Sense Media: Age-appropriate app reviews - ConnectSafely.org: Parent guides - NetSmartz.org: Internet safety resources When to Seek Help: - Persistent technical issues - Signs of device addiction - Discovery of dangerous behavior - Mental health concerns - Family conflict over technology Remember, parental controls are tools, not complete solutions. They work best when combined with trust, communication, and gradual independence. Start with tighter controls and loosen them as your child demonstrates responsibility. The goal isn't to restrict forever but to guide your child toward healthy, independent technology use. Stay informed about updates, remain flexible in your approach, and always keep communication channels open. Your involvement and guidance matter more than any technical restriction.