How to set up an iPhone for a child (with parental controls)
With Family Sharing you set the child’s iPhone up from your own and manage it later from your phone.
The fix
Set it up
- 1
Update your iPhone and turn on Bluetooth.
- 2
Turn on the child’s iPhone and hold it near yours.
- 3
Choose to set it up for a child in your family.
- 4
Pick your child, or tap Create New Child Account.
- 5
Turn on the parental controls shown during setup.
Settings worth turning on
- Ask to Buy: you approve every download and purchase.
- Downtime and App Limits: set bedtime and daily limits.
- Communication Limits: choose who they can call and text.
- Content & Privacy Restrictions: filter websites, music and apps by age.
Frequently asked questions
What age needs a child account?
Children under 13 in the US must use a child account created by a parent through Family Sharing.
Can I change the settings later?
Yes. On your iPhone, go to Settings › Family › your child’s name to change limits, apps and purchases.
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