Family Handoff support

A small guide to an easier handoff.

Set it up once

  1. Open Family Handoff and allow Family Controls when Apple asks.
  2. Create a Parent PIN of at least four digits. Use a code your child does not know.
  3. Choose individual apps your child may use. Keep at least one familiar app available.

Start a handoff

Choose the profile you need, tap Start Handoff and confirm. Your child can return to the Home Screen and open the apps you selected.

Take your device back

Return to Family Handoff, tap End Handoff, and enter your Parent PIN. Use Parent settings to change app choices, manage profiles or change your PIN.

Prepare the device for sharing

Family Handoff shields ordinary apps using Apple's Screen Time controls. It is a temporary app-sharing tool, rather than a separate device account or complete device lock. Notifications, Messages, Siri, widgets and system Photos or Files pickers may still show information. Check the allowed apps and notification settings before handing the device over.

Use the app only when it is safe to do so. Set up a handoff while stationary, never while driving.

When something needs attention

If you see Parent check needed, keep the device with you and follow the on-screen protection check before another handoff. Re-enable Family Controls permission when required.

If an app that should be shielded opens, end the handoff, keep the device with you and contact support with your device and iOS/iPadOS version.

Your Parent PIN can remain in Apple's Keychain after reinstalling. Reinstalling is not a dependable PIN-reset method. Contact support when you need help with an existing PIN.

Diagnostics and contact

In Parent settings, Share diagnostics lets you choose to share a bounded technical report when something goes wrong. Send only the information needed to describe the problem. Please do not send your Parent PIN, app selections or personal information about a child.

Email support@theamateur.co.uk for support or privacy questions.