Enable Guided Access Mode for Kids on iPhone

 Guided Access is a powerful iPhone feature that helps parents control what their children can access on the device. By locking the screen to a single app, it prevents kids from exiting, opening other apps, or changing settings. This OnePlus guide explains how U.S. and Canadian parents can enable Guided Access mode for kids on iPhone to create a safe and focused digital experience.


Why Use Guided Access for Kids

Guided Access is ideal when children use your iPhone to play games, watch videos, or learn. It allows you to:

  • Lock your iPhone to one app so kids can’t switch away.

  • Disable touch or hardware buttons to prevent accidental exits.

  • Limit screen time for better device management.

  • Ensure safety by preventing access to personal data or settings.

OnePlus Tip: This feature is especially useful for parents lending their iPhone to toddlers or for classroom learning environments.


Step 1: Turn On Guided Access

  1. Open Settings → Accessibility.

  2. Scroll down and tap Guided Access.

  3. Toggle Guided Access to On.

  4. Tap Passcode Settings → Set Guided Access Passcode.

  5. Create a passcode — this locks Guided Access so only you can exit it.

OnePlus Tip: Use Face ID or Touch ID for quick access instead of entering a passcode every time.


Step 2: Configure Guided Access Options

Within the same menu, you can customize how Guided Access works:

  • Time Limits: Set session time to automatically lock after a certain period.

  • Accessibility Shortcut: Triple-click the side button to enable or disable Guided Access.

  • Display Auto-Lock: Choose how long the screen stays on during a session.


Step 3: Start a Guided Access Session

  1. Open the app your child will use (for example, YouTube Kids or a game).

  2. Quickly triple-click the Side Button (or Home Button on older models).

  3. Adjust session options:

    • Tap Options at the bottom-left to disable buttons, touch, or motion sensors.

  4. Tap Start to begin Guided Access.

Your iPhone is now locked into that app — kids can’t leave it until you turn the mode off.


Step 4: Exit Guided Access Mode

  1. Triple-click the Side Button or Home Button.

  2. Enter your passcode or use Face ID / Touch ID.

  3. Tap End at the top-left corner.

The iPhone will return to normal mode.

OnePlus Tip: Teach older kids how to request more time instead of trying to exit the mode — this builds healthy device habits.


Step 5: Customize Touch and Motion Restrictions

You can refine Guided Access to control what parts of the screen are active.

  1. While in a session, triple-click the Side Button.

  2. Draw a circle around areas you want to disable (like ad banners or exit buttons).

  3. Tap Resume.

This ensures kids stay focused on the intended content.


Step 6: Set a Time Limit for Kids

If you want to limit screen time during Guided Access:

  1. Before starting the session, tap Options.

  2. Enable Time Limit.

  3. Choose the desired duration (for example, 30 minutes).

When time expires, your iPhone will lock automatically.


Step 7: Troubleshooting Guided Access

If Guided Access won’t start or exit properly:

  • Make sure Accessibility Shortcut is enabled under Guided Access settings.

  • Restart your iPhone if it’s stuck in Guided Access mode.

  • If you forget the passcode, force restart your device or use Find My iPhone to reset it.


Related OnePlus Guides


FAQ

1. Does Guided Access prevent accidental purchases?
Yes. Since it locks the device to one app, kids can’t access the App Store or make in-app purchases.

2. Can I receive calls during Guided Access?
Yes. Calls will still come through, but your child can’t answer or navigate away from the current app.

3. Is Guided Access available on all iPhones?
It’s available on iPhone 5s and later running iOS 12 or newer.


Final Thoughts

Guided Access is the simplest way for parents in North America to make iPhone use safer for kids. By enabling this feature, you can control which app your child uses, restrict unwanted touches, and even limit screen time — all while keeping your data secure. Follow OnePlus’ step-by-step guide to set up Guided Access and enjoy worry-free phone sharing with your children.

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