Set up a child’s tablet: accounts and parental settings

The starting point

Start by choosing your family's uses and rules. A well-prepared tablet should also remain understandable for parents.

1. Decide what your child will do

Reading, drawing, watching videos, schoolwork or games: make a short list. Separate essentials from wishes. Also consider the devices and accounts already used at home.

2. Choose a consistent environment

Check family features before buying. Family Link can supervise certain Android and ChromeOS devices. It cannot supervise a child's iPad, although a parent can use the app on an iPhone or iPad. For a child's iPad, look at Apple's Screen Time and Family Sharing features.

Compatibility and options vary with the hardware, operating system and accounts. Refer to your device's official documentation.

3. Set up accounts with the parents

Use an account suitable for the child and check the recovery options. Parents should understand who manages what and keep control of their credentials. During a setup session, enter your passwords yourself.

4. Choose useful settings

Allowed apps and how to request new ones.
Time limits and device-free moments.
Purchases, content and app permissions.
Updates and what to keep in case of loss or replacement.

Try a concrete example together: requesting an app, reaching a time limit or finding a setting. This is more useful than ticking every option without understanding it.

5. Review the rules as your child grows

Explain the rules to your child and plan a time to adjust them. No parental control filters everything, and no setting replaces a conversation. The aim is to support growing independence.