How to set up parental controls on Mac

Prerequisites & Requirements

• •macOS version: Ensure your Mac is running macOS Mojave (10.14) or later, as earlier versions do not support Screen Time.
• •Administrator access: You must have admin privileges to configure parental controls.
• •User accounts: Create a separate user account for your child if not already done.
• •Backup data: It's advisable to back up important data using Time Machine or another backup solution before making changes.

Method 1: Using Screen Time in System Preferences

• •Step 1: Click on the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen and select 'System Preferences'.
• •Step 2: Click on 'Screen Time'. If prompted, enter your administrator password.
• •Step 3: Select the user account you want to manage from the dropdown menu in the left sidebar.
• •Step 4: Configure settings such as 'App Limits', 'Content & Privacy', and 'Downtime'.
• •Step 5: To verify, check the usage reports and settings to ensure they reflect your choices.
• •Step 6: If it doesn't work, ensure you are logged into the correct user account and that Screen Time is enabled.

For macOS Ventura (13) and later

• •Step 1: Open 'System Settings' instead of 'System Preferences'.
• •Step 2: Click on 'Screen Time' from the sidebar.
• •Step 3: Follow the same steps as above to configure settings.

For macOS Monterey (12) and earlier

• •Step 1: Open 'System Preferences' and select 'Screen Time'.
• •Step 2: The layout may have fewer options, but the core functionalities remain the same.

Method 2: Using Parental Controls in User Accounts (macOS Catalina and earlier)

• •Step 1: Open 'System Preferences' and click on 'Users & Groups'.
• •Step 2: Click the lock icon in the bottom-left corner and enter your admin password.
• •Step 3: Select the child’s account from the list and check the box for 'Enable Parental Controls'.
• •Step 4: Click on 'Open Parental Controls' to configure settings such as 'Apps', 'Web', and 'Time Limits'.
• •Step 5: Verify the settings by logging into the child’s account and checking the restrictions.
• •Step 6: If settings do not apply, ensure the account is a standard user account and not an admin.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• •Error: 'Screen Time is not available' - Solution: Ensure your macOS is updated to Mojave (10.14) or later.
• •Issue: 'Settings not saving' - Fix: Check if you are logged in as an administrator and try restarting your Mac.
• •Problem: 'Content restrictions not applying' - Workaround: Double-check that the correct user account is selected in Screen Time.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

• •Keyboard shortcut: Command + Space - Opens Spotlight for quick access to System Preferences.
• •Command line: sudo defaults write /Library/Preferences/com.apple.family.plist <key> <value> - Allows advanced configuration for power users.
• •Hidden feature: 'Ask for Permission' - Enable this in Screen Time settings to require approval for app downloads.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Expert Tips