How To Set Up Parental Controls On A New Tablet For Kids

Bringing a new tablet into your home for your child can open doors to learning, creativity, and entertainment. But without proper safeguards, it can also expose them to inappropriate content, excessive screen time, or online risks. Setting up parental controls is not just a precaution—it’s essential. The good news? Most modern tablets come equipped with robust tools that let you manage what your child sees, how long they use the device, and who they interact with. Whether you’re using an iPad, an Android tablet, or considering third-party solutions, this guide walks you through every critical step to ensure your child’s digital experience is both safe and balanced.

Why Parental Controls Matter from Day One

A new tablet out of the box is like an unlocked front door: accessible but unsecured. Children are naturally curious, and one accidental tap can lead to explicit videos, in-app purchases, or contact with strangers. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, consistent digital boundaries help children develop healthy relationships with technology. Parental controls allow you to define those boundaries early—before habits form.

Effective controls do more than block content; they promote digital literacy by guiding usage. You’re not just restricting access—you’re teaching responsibility. By setting limits on screen time, filtering web content, and monitoring app downloads, you create a structured environment where exploration happens safely.

“Setting up parental controls isn’t about surveillance—it’s about stewardship. Parents who establish clear digital rules early help their children grow into mindful users.” — Dr. Lena Torres, Child Development & Technology Researcher

Step-by-Step Setup for Major Platforms

The setup process varies depending on whether you're using an Apple iPad or an Android-based tablet. Below is a detailed walkthrough for each platform.

iOS (iPad): Using Screen Time and Family Sharing

Apple’s ecosystem offers one of the most intuitive parental control systems via Screen Time and Family Sharing. Here’s how to configure it:

1. Create a Child Apple ID: Go to Settings > [Your Name] > Family Sharing > Add Member > Create Child Account. Enter your child’s details and generate a secure password.
2. Enable Screen Time: On the child’s iPad, navigate to Settings > Screen Time > Turn On Screen Time. Choose “This is My Child’s iPad.”
3. Set Daily Time Limits: Under App Limits, tap Add Limit. Select categories like Games or Social Media and set daily allowances (e.g., 1 hour).
4. Restrict Content & Privacy: In Content & Privacy Restrictions, disable explicit music, restrict movie ratings, and block adult websites under Web Content.
5. Approve App Downloads Remotely: Enable Ask to Buy so your child must request permission before downloading paid or free apps.
6. Use Downtime: Schedule Downtime (e.g., 8 PM to 7 AM) when only approved apps are accessible.

Tip: Use a shared family iCloud account to sync settings across devices and receive notifications when your child requests app downloads.

Android Tablets: Google Family Link

Google’s Family Link is the go-to solution for managing Android tablets used by children under 13. It works on most devices running Android 7.0 and above.

1. Download Family Link: Install the Family Link app on your phone (parent device).
2. Create a Child Account: Open the app and follow prompts to make a Google account for your child. You’ll need to verify your identity.
3. Pair Devices: Sign in to the new tablet with the child’s Google account. The parent device will receive a notification to approve setup.
4. Set Digital Ground Rules: From the Family Link app, set daily screen time limits, schedule bedtimes (device locks at night), and lock the device remotely.
5. Review & Approve Apps: Any app your child tries to install from the Play Store requires your approval. You can also remove apps anytime.
6. Filter Inappropriate Content: Enable SafeSearch, restrict YouTube access, and filter web browsing through Google’s built-in protections.

Family Link also includes location tracking, allowing you to see where the tablet is—a useful feature if the device gets lost or used outside expected areas.

Essential Features to Configure Immediately

Once the basic setup is complete, fine-tune these key features to maximize safety and usability.

Content Filtering and Safe Browsing

Even with restrictions, determined kids may find ways to access questionable sites. Enable strict content filters:

• iOS: In Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > Web Content, select “Limit Adult Websites” and manually add allowed sites.
• Android: In Family Link > Controls > Filters on Google Chrome, turn on “Always filter unsafe sites.”

App Management and Purchase Controls

Unintended in-app purchases are a common issue. Prevent surprises:

• Disable in-app purchases entirely in device settings.
• Require authentication for every download or purchase.
• Use prepaid gift cards instead of linking credit cards to reduce financial risk.

Location Services and Privacy Permissions

Review which apps can access location, camera, microphone, or contacts. Disable permissions for non-essential apps. For example, a puzzle game doesn’t need access to photos or voice recording.

Feature	iOS Setting Path	Android Setting Path
Screen Time Limits	Settings > Screen Time > App Limits	Family Link > Daily Limit
Web Filtering	Settings > Screen Time > Content Restrictions > Web Content	Family Link > Controls > Chrome Filtering
App Approval	Family Sharing > Ask to Buy	Family Link > Manage Settings > App Approvals
Downtime/Sleep Mode	Screen Time > Downtime	Family Link > Bedtime

Third-Party Tools for Enhanced Protection

While built-in tools are strong, some families need additional layers. Third-party apps offer advanced monitoring, cross-platform support, and behavioral insights.

• Kaspersky Safe Kids: Tracks screen time, blocks harmful sites, and monitors social media activity. Offers geofencing alerts.
• Norton Family Premier: Provides real-time search monitoring, detailed reports, and customizable filtering by category.
• Qustodio: Supports multiple operating systems (iOS, Android, Windows, macOS), ideal for households with mixed devices.

These tools often include dashboards where parents can view usage patterns, such as peak activity hours or attempts to bypass filters. However, avoid stacking too many apps—they can slow down the tablet or conflict with native settings.

Tip: Test third-party apps in “supervised mode” first. Let your child use the tablet for a few days while you observe reports before enforcing strict rules.

Real-World Example: The Miller Family’s Tablet Transition

The Millers recently gave their 8-year-old daughter a refurbished iPad for schoolwork and weekend fun. Initially, she spent hours watching random YouTube videos and accidentally downloaded a game with aggressive ads. After realizing the lack of oversight, they followed these steps:

1. Reset the iPad and reconfigured it using a child Apple ID.
2. Enabled Screen Time with a 2-hour daily limit for entertainment apps.
3. Turned on Content Restrictions to block adult websites and limit app store purchases.
4. Added educational apps like Khan Academy Kids and Epic! to the allowed list.
5. Set Downtime from 7:30 PM to 7:00 AM to encourage sleep hygiene.

Within a week, her usage became more focused. Her parents received weekly Screen Time reports showing improved balance between learning and leisure. The key, they said, was consistency—not just technical setup, but regular conversations about why the rules existed.

Parental Control Checklist

Before handing over the tablet, ensure these actions are complete:

• ✅ Created a separate user account or child profile
• ✅ Set a strong passcode known only to parents
• ✅ Configured screen time limits and downtime schedules
• ✅ Enabled content filtering for web and app stores
• ✅ Disabled in-app purchases and auto-renewing subscriptions
• ✅ Reviewed and restricted app permissions (camera, location, etc.)
• ✅ Installed only age-appropriate, educational, or creative apps
• ✅ Tested the setup by browsing as the child would
• ✅ Discussed digital rules and expectations with your child
• ✅ Scheduled monthly check-ins to review usage and adjust settings

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my child bypass parental controls if they’re tech-savvy?

Some older children may attempt to reset the device or use private browsers. To prevent this, use a strong, non-obvious passcode and disable settings changes without authentication. Regularly check for unauthorized app installations or configuration changes.

What if my child needs certain apps for homework that are blocked?

Both iOS and Android allow you to whitelist specific apps or websites. In Screen Time or Family Link, add approved domains or apps to the “Always Allowed” list. Communicate with teachers to anticipate required tools.

Do parental controls work when the tablet is connected to public Wi-Fi?

Yes, most controls are device-based, not network-dependent. Content filters, app restrictions, and time limits remain active regardless of internet source. However, DNS-level filtering (like Google’s SafeSearch) may be less effective on untrusted networks unless enforced via third-party apps.

Maintaining Balance Beyond Technology

Tools alone aren’t enough. The most effective digital parenting combines technology with communication. Sit with your child during their first few sessions. Explain why some sites are blocked and how time limits support better focus and sleep. Encourage them to come to you if they encounter something confusing or upsetting online.

Revisit settings every few months. As children grow, their needs change. A 6-year-old might need tight restrictions, while a 10-year-old can earn more autonomy through responsible use. Think of parental controls as training wheels—temporary supports that prepare kids for independent, ethical digital citizenship.

Take Action Today for a Safer Digital Tomorrow

Setting up parental controls on a new tablet takes less than an hour but pays dividends for years. It protects your child, preserves peace of mind, and lays the foundation for healthy tech habits. Don’t wait for a misstep to act. Follow the steps outlined here, use the checklist, and start the conversation about digital responsibility today. Your child’s online safety begins with your involvement—and it starts now.

💬 Have questions about a specific tablet model or app? Share your experience or ask for advice in the comments—let’s build a safer digital world for kids together.