Apple's Screen Time is one of the most powerful parental control systems available — and one of the most underused.
This masterclass walks you through every setting, step by step. Instructions are current as of iOS 17/18.
Part 1: Setting Up Screen Time
Step 1 Go to Settings → Screen Time. Tap Turn On Screen Time.
Step 2 When asked, tap This is My Child's device — this sets a separate Screen Time passcode your child can't use.
Step 3 Tap Use Screen Time Passcode. Choose a 4-digit code your child does not know. Store it safely.
Step 4 Set up Family Sharing: Settings → [Your Name] → Family Sharing → Add Member → Create Child Account. This enables remote management from your own phone.
Part 2: Downtime — Scheduled Screen-Free Time
Go to Settings → Screen Time → Downtime. This blocks all apps except those you specifically allow.
What to set
- Toggle Scheduled on
- Set start and end times (e.g. 9pm to 7am)
- Tick Block at Downtime — without this, your child can tap "Ignore Limit" and keep going
Pro tip: Set Downtime 30 minutes before actual bedtime. It creates a natural wind-down window.
Part 3: App Limits
Settings → Screen Time → App Limits → Add Limit. Set limits by category (Social Networking, Entertainment, Games) or by individual app.
Key settings
- Set time allowance per category or app
- Tick Block at End of Limit — essential or they can dismiss the prompt
- Communication Limits (separate setting): set to Contacts Only to block messages from unknown numbers
Part 4: Content & Privacy Restrictions
Settings → Screen Time → Content & Privacy Restrictions. Toggle On. This is the most important section.