How to Child-Proof an iPhone or iPad in 5 Steps

Step 1: Remove Administrator Access

Every device has an administrator who can change settings, install apps, and override restrictions. Your kids should never have administrator access to their devices. This is the foundation that makes every other step work.

On iPhones and iPads, everyone is an administrator by default. You need to enable Screen Time restrictions to limit what your child can change.

How to Enable Screen Time Restrictions

• Go to Settings → Screen Time → Content & Privacy Restrictions
• Enable restrictions and set a passcode (different from the device unlock code)

Settings to Disable Under "Allow"

• Installing Apps: Prevents kids from downloading apps you haven't approved.
• Deleting Apps: Prevents removing apps you've installed (like CleanBrowsing).
• In-App Purchases: Prevents unexpected charges on your account.

Settings to Disable Under "Allow Changes"

• Account Changes: Prevents kids from switching Apple IDs or modifying account settings.
• Location Services (optional): Only disable for very young children. Older kids benefit from maps and Find My.

Step 2: Set Strong Passwords

Do not use "1234" or "password" for your Screen Time passcode. Choose something your kids won't be able to guess. Use a different passcode than the device unlock code.

Enable Biometric Authentication

Every modern iPhone and iPad supports Face ID or Touch ID. Enable it for all purchases and settings changes. Go to Settings → Face ID & Passcode (or Touch ID & Passcode) to set it up. Biometric authentication protects the device if it's lost or stolen and reduces the number of passwords to manage.

Step 3: Block Adult Content

With admin access locked down and a strong passcode set, the next step is enabling content filtering. We recommend a two-layer approach: DNS filtering for network-level blocking, plus iOS's built-in content restrictions.

Layer 1: DNS Filtering with CleanBrowsing

CleanBrowsing's free Family filter blocks adult content, enforces SafeSearch, and blocks mixed-content sites. Set it up on iOS by going to Settings → Wi-Fi → tap your network → Configure DNS → Manual and adding:

• Primary DNS: 185.228.168.168
• Secondary DNS: 185.228.169.168

For cellular data protection, use DNS-over-HTTPS (DoH) which works across all network types. See our free filter setup guide for detailed instructions.

Layer 2: iOS Content Restrictions

Go to Settings → Screen Time → Content & Privacy Restrictions → Content Restrictions and set:

• Movies: PG-13 (or lower for younger kids)
• TV Shows: TV-14
• Books: Restrict explicit content
• Apps: 12+
• Siri: Filter explicit language
• Web Content: Limit adult websites

Apple's built-in website filter is not comprehensive on its own — that's why we combine it with CleanBrowsing DNS filtering for complete coverage. As your kids get older, adjust these settings to match their age and maturity.

Step 4: Control Where Devices Are Used

No app or filter can replace supervision. Set a household rule that devices must be used in common areas — the living room, kitchen, or a shared office space. Avoid letting kids use devices behind closed doors, especially at night.

Use Screen Time Limits

iOS Screen Time lets you set Downtime (scheduled hours when only approved apps work) and App Limits (daily time allowances per app category). Configure these in Settings → Screen Time.

Step 5: Explain the Rules

Once the device is locked down, have an age-appropriate conversation about online safety. Explain what the rules are and why they exist. For older kids, consider having them sign a written agreement about device usage.

Stay present and engaged. Check in regularly about what they're doing online. No technical control replaces an open conversation between parent and child.

For a complete guide to protecting your family online — including router-level filtering, SafeSearch enforcement, and preventing filter bypass — see our Parent's Complete Guide to DNS Filtering.