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Operating systems

iOS

Critical risk

Check Screen Time, AirDrop, messaging and app approvals before handing an iPhone or iPad to a child. The default settings do not cover every family’s needs.

Three things to do first

  1. 1

    Set a separate Screen Time passcode

    This is the difference between Screen Time looking active and actually staying active.

  2. 2

    Turn on Communication Limits

    It reduces the chance of unknown numbers reaching your child in Messages or FaceTime.

  3. 3

    Set AirDrop to Contacts Only or Off

    Do this before school events, sports practice, or any crowded public setting.

What to watch for

iMessage contact from strangers

High

If communication settings are open, unknown numbers can reach a child directly through Messages.

AirDrop from strangers

High

Nearby people can send unwanted images or files if AirDrop is left open.

Screen Time can be bypassed if the child knows the Apple ID password

Critical

Once a child can reset or change controls, the rest of the setup quickly loses value.

App downloads and spending stay easy by default

Medium

Without Ask to Buy and purchase limits, a child can add social apps or spend money faster than many parents expect.

Set it up, step by step

Menu path: Settings → Screen Time. Use a Screen Time passcode that is different from the device unlock code and from the child's Apple ID password.

  1. 1

    Turn on Screen Time

    Open Settings → Screen Time and choose This is My Child's iPhone or iPad.

  2. 2

    Set a separate Screen Time passcode

    Use a code your child does not know so they cannot change restrictions in the moment.

  3. 3

    Enable Communication Limits

    Settings → Screen Time → Communication Limits. Restrict who can contact them during allowed time and downtime.

  4. 4

    Turn on Content & Privacy Restrictions

    Settings → Screen Time → Content & Privacy Restrictions. Lock app installs, purchases, and age-inappropriate content.

  5. 5

    Add Downtime and app limits

    Settings → Screen Time → Downtime and App Limits. Use both so bedtime and category limits work together.

  6. 6

    Shut down AirDrop exposure

    Settings → General → AirDrop. Set it to Contacts Only or Receiving Off.