Use iOS 12 Downtime to Restrict Child Access at Night

Apple introduced the Screen Time suite in iOS 12, giving parents robust controls to manage their children's device usage. A central feature of this update is Downtime, which allows parents to schedule specific hours—such as bedtime—during which most apps and device functions are blocked. This article explains how Downtime works, how to configure it on a child's device, and how to customize settings to ensure critical communications remain available.

Yes, parents can effectively use Downtime in iOS 12 to restrict a child's access at night. When Downtime is scheduled, only phone calls and pre-approved applications are accessible. All other app icons are dimmed, and tapping them displays an alert showing that the time limit has been reached.

How to Set Up Downtime in iOS 12

You can configure Downtime either directly on your child’s device or remotely using Apple's Family Sharing feature.

  1. Open Settings: Tap the Settings app on the child’s device (or select the child's name in the Screen Time menu on the parent’s device via Family Sharing).
  2. Access Screen Time: Tap Screen Time, then select Turn On Screen Time if it is not already active. Identify the device as your child's device.
  3. Set a Passcode: Tap Use Screen Time Passcode and enter a 4-digit PIN. This prevents your child from disabling Downtime or extending their time limits.
  4. Configure Downtime: Tap Downtime, enter your passcode, and toggle the switch to the On position.
  5. Set Schedule: Define the Start and End times (for example, 9:00 PM to 7:00 AM) to cover your child's bedtime hours.

Managing "Always Allowed" Apps

By default, the Phone app remains available during Downtime for safety reasons, but parents can choose which other apps remain active:

  1. In the Screen Time menu, tap Always Allowed.
  2. Tap the red minus (-) icon to remove apps you want blocked, or tap the green plus (+) icon to keep specific apps accessible (such as Clock for morning alarms or Books for bedtime reading).

Enforcing the Restriction

In iOS 12, to ensure that the child cannot bypass the restriction, make sure the Block at Downtime toggle is turned on within the Downtime settings. When enabled, your child will need the Screen Time passcode to gain more time, ensuring the device remains locked throughout the night.