iPad Parental Controls: Set Up a New Tablet for Kids

Before an iPad goes under the tree, set up Family Sharing, age limits and purchase approval. It takes about a minute.

1. Family Sharing

Your child needs their own Apple Account in your Family Sharing group.

2. Open their settings

On your iPhone or iPad: Settings, Family, your child's name.

3. Content & Privacy Restrictions

Turn it on and set age ratings for apps, movies, TV and books.

4. Ask to Buy

Turn on Ask to Buy so purchases and downloads need your approval.

5. Check it on the iPad

Sign in on the iPad with your child's account and try a download to confirm the request reaches you.

Sources

Apple Support (Parental controls on your child's iPhone or iPad).

FAQ

Can I turn Ask to Buy off?

Apple says it may be on by default and in some regions can't be turned off for children under 18.

Does this work on iPhone too?

Yes, the same steps apply to a child's iPhone.