Creating a kid-friendly iPad takes a few extra steps, but Apple’s tools make the process straightforward. From creating a child’s Apple ID to adjusting Screen Time and privacy settings, you can shape how your child uses the device and protect it from inappropriate content. The process varies slightly depending on whether the iPad is new or used, but the principles are the same: set up a managed account, connect it to Family Sharing and fine-tune the controls that keep your child’s digital space safe.
Create an Apple ID for your child
Every child who uses an iPad must have their own Apple ID. This allows you to manage their account with Family Sharing and give them access to features like iCloud, the App Store and Messages under your supervision. Apple requires parents to create accounts for children under 13, which can be done directly from your device.
Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad, tap your name at the top and select it The family. Tap Add Memberthen Create a Child Accountand follow the on-screen instructions. You’ll need to provide your child’s name and date of birth, as well as parental consent using your Apple ID password. Once created, the account is automatically added to your Family Sharing group.
If your child already has an account, you can invite them to join your Family Sharing setup instead. On the iPad, go to Settings > Family > Add Memberand select Invite People sending a request to their Apple ID email address. If they accept, you will be able to manage the parental controls from your device.
Add your child to Family Sharing
Family Sharing brings together all of your family’s Apple devices under one umbrella. It allows you to share subscriptions, purchases and iCloud storage, while giving you oversight of your child’s activity. I Request a Purchase feature, for example, requires your permission before your child downloads apps or makes in-app purchases, which helps avoid unexpected charges.
To enable Family Sharing on your iPad, go to Settings > [your name] > Familyand press Add Member if your child has not yet heard. You can manage shared purchases, location sharing and Screen Time settings from here. Linking devices with Family Sharing also makes it easy to find a lost iPad and maintain consistent restrictions across your family’s devices. For more comprehensive setup advice, see Engadget’s guide on how to set up a phone or tablet for a child.
Set Screen Time and parental controls
Once your child’s account is connected, you can use Screen Time to control how the iPad is used. Screen Time is located below Settings > Screen Timeand allows you to set time limits, restrict certain applications, and monitor usage reports.
When you first open Screen Time on your child’s iPad, tap This is My Child’s iPad. You will be asked to create a separate passcode for Screen Time. This passcode is different from the iPad’s unlock code and prevents your child from changing settings without permission, so make sure you remember it. From here, you can configure several important features.
Time to relax it allows you to block all important apps and calls except during certain hours, such as bedtime or homework. Application limitations you set daily time limits for categories such as games, entertainment or social media. You can also set Communication Limitations to control who your child can communicate with throughout the day and during Break Time, which is useful if you only want them to message trusted family members or friends. I Always Allowed The section allows you to select important applications, such as messages or teaching tools, that are always accessible.
You can adjust these settings from your device if your child is part of your Family Sharing group. Screen Time Reports provide detailed information on how the iPad is being used, so you can see which apps are being used the most and make changes as needed.
Enable Content and Privacy Restrictions
Content and Privacy Restrictions give you the best control over what your child can and can’t do with their iPad. To empower yourself, go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictionsand open them.
Within this menu, you can control App Store purchases and downloads, disable in-app purchases or prevent your child from installing or removing apps. You can also filter explicit content in Apple Music, TV, and Books, and use web restrictions in Safari to limit adult content. Underneath Web Contentchoose Minimize Old Websites or specify specific sites that are allowed or blocked.
Privacy controls go beyond content. You can manage location services, camera and microphone access and other sensitive permissions. For example, turning off location sharing in other apps can help protect your child’s privacy. You can also prevent changes to accounts, passcodes and mobile settings, ensuring that restrictions remain unchanged.
Adjust privacy and security settings
Beyond Screen Time, Apple includes additional tools to make iPads safer for children. In Safari, you can enable SafeSearch to filter out search engine results. Limit AirDrop below Settings > General > AirDrop by limiting sharing to Contacts Only or turning it off completely, you reduce the chances of exposure to unsolicited files.
Messages include a Communications Security a feature that uses on-device machine learning to detect sensitive images. If enabled, the iPad will blur images that contain nudity and provide guidance before a child views them. You will find this below Settings > Screen Time > Communication Security. It runs entirely on the device and does not send data to Apple, maintaining privacy while providing additional security.
If your child uses Game Center, you can limit multiplayer games, profile visibility and the ability to add friends. This small fix can prevent unwanted social interaction or exposure to inappropriate content in online games.
Use Guided Access for young children
For young children or toddlers, Guided Access can keep them focused on one app and prevent them from accidentally wandering somewhere else. To enable it, turn it on Settings > Access > Guided accessthen open it and set the passcode.
Once it’s running, open the app you want your child to use and triple-click the top button (or the Home button on older models). Guided Access locks the iPad in that app until you end the session with your passcode. You can disable hardware buttons or touch input points to avoid navigating elsewhere in the app or accessing playback controls. This feature is perfect if you want your child to watch a video or use an educational app without interruption.
Keep everything up to date
After the initial setup, it is important to revisit these settings from time to time. Children’s needs change as they grow, and Apple regularly adds new features for parents with each iPadOS update. Keep the iPad updated by going to Settings > General > Software Updateand review the limits periodically to make sure they are still appropriate for your child’s age and usage patterns.
Setting up your child’s iPad isn’t just about managing screen time or blocking certain apps. It’s about creating an environment that encourages safe exploration while maintaining healthy boundaries. With Apple’s parenting tools, you can find the right balance between freedom and supervision, making the iPad a secure and educational part of your child’s digital world.
