Set a Screen Time passcode for your iPad or iPhone
Jack Newenham
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April 14, 2024
You can create a passcode to ensure only you can modify Screen Time settings, approve additional time when app limits are reached, and apply content and privacy restrictions on a child’s device.
Scroll to select the child's name listed under Family.
Follow the displayed instructions to configure the desired Screen Time settings for the child.
Input a Screen Time passcode when prompted and confirm it by entering it again.
For managing a child account using their device:
Ensure you are using the child’s device.
Access Settings > Screen Time.
Adhere to the displayed instructions to establish the desired Screen Time settings for the child.
Create a Screen Time passcode when prompted and verify it by entering it again.
What to do if you forget your Screen Time passcode?
On your iPhone or iPad:
Navigate to Settings > Screen Time.
Select Change Screen Time Passcode, then select it again.
Choose Forgot Passcode? located at the bottom of the screen.
Provide the Apple ID and password initially used to set the Screen Time passcode. Forgot your Apple ID password?
Set a new Screen Time passcode and confirm it by entering it again.
On your Mac:
Ensure your Mac is updated to at least macOS Catalina 10.15.4.
Go to Apple menu  > System Settings or System Preferences, and click on Screen Time.
Click on Change Passcode, then on Forgot Passcode.
Enter the Apple ID and password that were used to establish the Screen Time passcode. Forgot your Apple ID password?
Input a new Screen Time passcode and confirm it by entering it again.
If 'Share Across Devices' is enabled, your new Screen Time passcode will automatically update on those devices after you reset it.
Resetting the Screen Time Passcode for Your Child’s Device
Using Family Sharing to manage a child’s account, the family organizer must reset the passcode on their device.
On an iPhone or iPad:
On the family organizer’s device, navigate to Settings > Screen Time.
Scroll and select the child’s name under Family.
Tap on Change Screen Time Passcode, then tap it again. Authenticate using Face ID, Touch ID, or your device passcode.
Enter a new Screen Time passcode and confirm it by entering it again.
On a Mac:
Ensure your Mac is updated to macOS Catalina 10.15.4 or later.
Go to the Apple menu  > System Settings or System Preferences, then select Screen Time.
Choose a child’s name from the pop-up menu.
Click on Change Passcode, then select Forgot Passcode.
Input the Apple ID and password that were originally used to establish the Screen Time passcode. If you've forgotten your Apple ID password, follow the necessary steps to retrieve it.
Set and confirm a new Screen Time passcode.
If Share Across Devices is active, your updated Screen Time passcode will automatically apply to those devices once reset.
If unable to reset your Screen Time passcode
If resetting the Screen Time passcode proves unsuccessful, confirm you are using the Apple ID that was initially used to set up the Screen Time passcode. This Apple ID might differ from the one currently logged into on your device. If you are part of a Family Sharing group, the Apple ID in question could belong to another family member or to your child.
Jack is the Marketing Manager at Carrots&Cake, where he channels his extensive background in app development across various sectors into making a positive societal impact. Attracted by the company’s commitment to addressing the challenges of children's screen time, Jack integrates his expertise in technology, psychology, and education to enhance digital parenting practices.
With an academic foundation in psychology and hands-on experience as a volunteer teacher, Jack is uniquely positioned to foster healthier digital habits among children. His dedication to staying current with the latest advancements in screen time and digital parenting allows him to effectively steer and influence this evolving field.
Personally, Jack is a staunch advocate for healthy living. He keeps active with regular gym visits and various sports, reflecting his professional focus on promoting balanced digital behaviors among children. Jack’s diverse interests and his deep commitment to making a real difference shine through his efforts at Carrots&Cake, helping to lead the way towards more positive screen time experiences for kids.
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