To set rules, you cancreate a dedicated user accountfor your child.

you might configure separate permissions and layers of control for each of these accounts.

Even if your child has her own computer, you should be the only person with administrator access.

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The administrator account is the one you create when you boot the Mac for the first time.

It gives you unhindered access to the full suite of functions.

The best way to do this is to set up the Mac yourself.

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verify you set a secure administrator account password your child won’t guess.

This is important since Apple’s parental controls work on a per-app basis.

After you create the appropriate user account, it’s time to apply Apple’s parental controls.

The "Users & Groups" form in "System Preferences" on a Mac.

After you do this, launch System Preferences > Screen Time and toggle-On this feature in the Options menu.

Now use the remaining options to set limits on apps, content throw in, and overall computer usage.

Downtime

The Downtime option allows you to lock the Mac at certain times each day.

The "Screen Time" menu on a Mac.

During Downtime, anyone who uses the computer can only jump into the apps you whitelist.

To turn on the feature, click “Turn On.”

A custom schedule is perfect if you’re okay with your child using the computer more on weekends.

Click "Turn On" next to the "Downtime" option, and then click "Every Day" or "Custom."

If you disable “Block at Downtime,” your child can ignore the time limit for the day.

This feature limits app usage to a certain number of minutes per day.

The timers reset at midnight.

The "Edit App Limit" menu on a Mac.

These apps will continue to work after “Downtime” begins.

Click “Turn On” to enable this feature, and then browse through each section.

The options under “Other” only affect iOS.

The "Always Allowed" menu.

Test Your Rules

With your new rules in place, it’s time to test them.

give a shot to watch an age-restricted video on YouTube or use an app you blocked.

Ask Siri to fetch some information for you from the web.

The "Content" menu under "Content and Privacy" on a Mac.

Remember to test each supervised account you created.

you could review your prefs occasionally and relax any restrictions that prove to be too extreme or a hassle.

The ultimate goal is to foster a healthy relationship between your child and the technology he uses every day.

The "Apps" menu under "Content and Privacy."

When I was a kid, we used purpose-built tools to remove all the restrictions on school computers.

Computers and software have advanced considerably since I was in school.

However, the inquisitive nature of children will never change.

Switch Between Shared and Native Libraries on macOS

By far, the biggest threat to your new parental controls is your own security practices.

It’s a good idea to change your passcode and password frequently.

This will also teach your child good security practices.

The best way to combat this is by giving your child minimal reasons to beat the restrictions.

Install child-friendly software and games, like Minecraft, that encourage learning and cooperation through play.

Listen to any complaints your child raises and give a shot to rationalize your decision.