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    1 min read 5 stepsFebruary 7, 2026Verified February 2026

    How to Set Up Parental Controls on Mac

    Use Screen Time to set content restrictions and time limits for children on Mac.

    In this guide (5 steps):

    1. 1.Open Screen Time
    2. 2.Set content restrictions
    3. 3.Set app limits
    4. 4.Set Downtime
    5. 5.Use a Screen Time passcode
    1

    Open Screen Time

    ~15s
    Go to System SettingsScreen Time. If setting up for a child, use Family Sharing.
    2

    Set content restrictions

    ~15s
    Click Content & Privacy → toggle on. Restrict web content, apps, and explicit material.

    Quick Tip

    Start with stricter restrictions and relax them as your child gets older and demonstrates responsible usage.

    3

    Set app limits

    ~15s
    Click App LimitsAdd Limit. Set daily time limits for categories of apps.
    4

    Set Downtime

    ~15s
    Configure Downtime to block most apps during bedtime or homework hours.
    5

    Use a Screen Time passcode

    ~15s
    Set a passcode that only parents know to prevent children from changing restrictions.

    Warning

    Choose a passcode your children will not guess. Do not use the same passcode as your phone unlock.

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    Official Resources

    Apple SupportHow-To Geek — MacApple Support YouTube

    Sources used to create and verify this guide. View all sources →

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    How to Set Up Parental Controls on Mac — Step-by-Step Guide | TekSure