Enable Guided Access Mode for Kids on iPhone in the US (iOS 18 Guide)

When you hand your iPhone to a child, the last thing you want is them exiting an app, opening messages, or changing settings. iOS 18’s Guided Access feature locks your iPhone to a single app — perfect for keeping kids focused and safe. Here’s how to enable and use it effectively in the United States.

1. Turn On Guided Access

Open Settings → Accessibility → Guided Access.

Toggle Guided Access ON, then tap Passcode Settings → Set Guided Access Passcode.

Enter a 6-digit passcode (different from your device passcode) to prevent kids from exiting the locked app.

📘 Related: Learn more about overall iPhone setup and parental features at AvNexo iPhone Hub.

2. Start a Guided Access Session

Open the app your child will use (for example, a learning or video app).

Quickly press the Side or Home button three times to start Guided Access.

On the setup screen, you can disable parts of the screen your child shouldn’t touch — just circle them with your finger.

3. Control Time Limits and Buttons

Tap Options at the bottom-left to manage features like:

• Sleep/Wake Button – disable to prevent locking the device.
• Volume Buttons – keep off to stop accidental changes.
• Time Limit – set a session duration (useful for screen-time control).

🛡️ For additional safety settings, explore Security & Privacy for parental control and data protection features.

4. End a Guided Access Session

To exit, triple-press the Side (or Home) button again → enter your Guided Access passcode → tap End.

If Face ID is enabled, you can set it to automatically end sessions using facial recognition for convenience.

5. Adjust Guided Access in Control Center

For quicker control, go to Settings → Control Center → Add Guided Access. This lets you start or stop sessions with just one swipe and tap — ideal for parents switching between apps frequently.

💡 To fine-tune screen interaction and gestures, visit Screen Tools for tips on accessibility shortcuts and touch controls.

AvNexo Tip

Before giving your iPhone to a child, always test Guided Access once to ensure gestures and buttons behave as expected. Combine it with Screen Time limits for a full parental safety setup that keeps kids focused and your data secure.