Introduction
Apple’s screen time feature lets you put limits on when your child can use their iPhone or iPad, put limits on how long they can use their device, apply content restrictions, and more. The only downside is that you’re required to set up a passcode that you’ll need to enter whenever you want to give your child more screen time on their iPhone or iPad than what you set up for them. While this sounds like a good idea, there may be periods of time you want to remove the passcode for everyone’s sanity, such as if that child is sick or going on a long trip. Thankfully, removing the child screen time passcode on an iPhone or iPad is relatively easy and the passcode can always be turned back on. However, you should be aware that removing the screen time passcode does make it possible for your child to adjust their own screen time settings.
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Steps to Turn Off Child Screen Time Passcode on iPhone or iPad
- Launch the “Settings” app on your iPhone or iPad, and then tap the section at the top of the menu featuring your profile picture and Apple ID name. The Apple ID screen is displayed.
- Tap “Family Sharing.” The Family screen is shown.

- Scroll down to the Shared With Your Family Section, and then tap “Screen Time.” The family screen is displayed, showing a list of the children associated with your Apple family account.

- Tap the name of the child you want to turn off the screen time passcode for. The Screen Time information screen for that child is displayed.

- Scroll down to the bottom of this screen, and then tap “Change Screen Time Passcode.” A menu pops up.

- Tap “Turn Off Screen Time Passcode” in this menu. A message letting you know that turning off the screen time passcode will give your child the ability to change their screen time settings.

- Tap “Turn Off Screen Time Passcode” again. A screen prompting you to enter that child’s current screen time passcode is displayed.

- Enter your child’s current screen time passcode. You’ll be returned to that child’s screen time information screen, and the screen time passcode for that child is turned off.

Three Reasons to Turn Off Child Screen Time Passcode on iPhone or iPad
1. Child Has Outgrown the Need for Screen Time
As children grow up, their needs and interests change, and this may include their use of technology. Perhaps the child has become more responsible and mature, and the parent feels that they can handle more screen time without the need for restrictions. Alternatively, the child may have new hobbies or activities that they want to pursue, and the parent wants to give them more freedom to do so.
Whatever the reason, turning off the child screen time passcode can be a good way to give the child more independence and trust. It shows them that the parent believes in their ability to make good choices and manage their own time. Of course, the parent can still monitor the child’s device usage and have conversations with them about responsible technology use, but removing the screen time passcode can be a positive step in supporting the child’s growth and development.
2. Child No Longer Uses This Device
If the child is no longer using the device regularly, such as if they have switched to a new device or are simply not interested in using technology as much, then there may be little need for screen time restrictions. The parent may find that they are no longer using the screen time feature as much or are constantly having to adjust it based on changing circumstances.
In this case, turning off the child screen time passcode can be a way to simplify device management and avoid unnecessary hassle. It can also free up time and mental energy for the parent to focus on other aspects of their life or their relationship with the child. Of course, the parent should still ensure that the child is using technology safely and responsibly, but they may not need to rely on screen time restrictions as much.
3. Device Being Given to Someone Else
If the device is being given to a different child or another family member, such as a younger sibling, then the screen time restrictions may need to be adjusted to reflect their needs and interests. The new user may have different habits or preferences when it comes to technology, and the parent may want to set appropriate limits and guidelines.
In this case, turning off the child screen time passcode can be a way to start fresh with a new user and customize the screen time settings to their needs. It can also ensure that the new user has full access to the device without any unnecessary barriers.