Parental Controls on iPhone (Screen Time)

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    Settings → Screen Time → Turn On Screen Time

    If setting up for a child’s device: tap This is My Child’s iPhone. You’ll be prompted to set a Screen Time passcode (different from the device passcode) — this prevents your child changing the settings.

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    Content & Privacy Restrictions

    Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions → toggle on. Set allowed content ratings (apps, movies, music), restrict explicit content, disable app purchases, prevent changing account settings, and restrict specific apps (Safari, Camera, etc.).

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    Set Screen Time limits and Downtime

    App Limits: set daily time limits per app category (e.g. Social Networking: 1 hour per day). Downtime: schedule periods when the device is locked (e.g. 9pm–7am). Communication Limits: control who the child can contact.

Parental Controls on Android

Use Google Family Link — see our dedicated guide: How to Set Up Google Family Link. Family Link provides app approval, screen time limits, location tracking and content filters across Android devices.

Parental Controls on Windows

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    Create a child account and use Microsoft Family Safety

    Go to family.microsoft.com or Settings → Accounts → Family → Add a family member → Add a child. Once the child account is set up, download Microsoft Family Safety (free app) on your phone to manage screen time, website filters, app limits and location.

Parental Controls on Mac

System Settings → Screen Time (same system as iPhone). Turn on Screen Time for a specific user account → set Content & Privacy restrictions, app limits, and communication limits. Enforce with a Screen Time passcode.

Router-level controlsMany modern routers (Netgear, ASUS, TP-Link) have built-in parental control features that apply to every device on your network — including smart TVs and gaming consoles that do not have their own parental control systems. Check your router admin page for Parental Controls or Family section.

Frequently Asked Questions

Screen Time with a separate passcode is reasonably secure for younger children. Older tech-savvy teenagers may find workarounds (changing the date to reset limits, using a different device). The most effective approach combines technical controls with ongoing conversations about appropriate use. No technical control is a complete substitute for parental involvement and trust-building.
Parental controls are most important for children under 13 with their first device. The level of restriction should decrease gradually as children demonstrate responsibility — overly restrictive controls on teenagers can damage trust and drive them to circumvent them. Tailor controls to your child’s age, maturity and the specific risks you are concerned about.