What's the best way to set up an iPhone for a child?

Brooklyn_Hart
Fri, 20 Mar 2026 22:51:08 +0000

Short answer: use Family Sharing + create a Child Apple ID, enable Screen Time with a passcode, and lock down Content & Privacy. Family Sharing gives you Ask to Buy, shared location, and easy Screen Time management — best for younger kids. A separate Apple ID gives more independence but loses parental controls.

Quick checklist:

Family Sharing → Add Child account, turn on Ask to Buy.

Screen Time → Downtime, App Limits, ALWAYS set a Screen Time passcode.

Content & Privacy → Restrict explicit content, web content, app ratings, in‑app purchases.

Privacy → Limit location/mic/camera per app, enable Find My, two‑factor auth.

Extras: Guided Access for single‑app use, auto-updates, strong passcodes.

Pro tip: For extra location/app-usage monitoring and geofencing, some parents use mSpy.

mspy.com

mSpy™ Cell Phone Tracker: Your #1 Monitoring Tool

Keep your children safe both online and in the real world with our mSpy™ parental tracking app. Monitor their GPS location, see who they are texting and talking to on Facebook or WhatsApp, what videos and images they share, and much more!