iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
When your child reaches a Screen Time limit, they can request extra time from the app or device that is restricted. Approve the request in Messages on your device, or approve it directly on your child’s device with the Screen Time passcode. Apple lists three durations: 15 minutes, one hour, or the rest of the day.
Approve a request from your device in Messages
- On your child’s iPhone or iPad, open the app that reached its limit and tap Ask for More Time.
- On your device, open the request in Messages.
- Choose Approve for 15 minutes, Approve for 1 hour, or Approve all day. Your child will be notified if you decline the request.
Apple documents this request flow for limits set through Time Allowances or a Screen Time Schedule. See Apple’s guide to approving Screen Time requests.
Approve the request on your child’s device
- On the device that reached its limit, tap Ask for More Time, then choose Approve on Device.
- Enter the Screen Time passcode.
- Select the approval duration: 15 minutes, one hour, or all day.
Apple also documents an approval route in Settings for earlier Screen Time controls: open Settings > Screen Time, select your child’s name, then review the request and choose a duration. The available labels and route depend on the software version; Apple’s iPhone Screen Time guide covers the earlier controls.
Recommended Free Tools
Check Family Sharing and software requirements
Apple says its redesigned iOS 27 parental controls require every device in the Family Sharing group to run version 27 or later. If some family devices cannot update, Apple says you can keep using the previous Screen Time controls or adjust controls directly on your child’s device. The parent or guardian approving requests should be in the child’s contacts so requests can be sent. Review Apple’s current Family Sharing and parental controls guidance for setup requirements.
#1 Best Overall
- 🎉【Joyful Time Management】 Our Visual Timer features a unique, child-friendly interface with a cute smiley face and visual time progress bars. This design helps kids perceive time in a fun and engaging way, making time management a delightful feel !
- ⏳【Up to 99 Minutes of Fun】 Say goodbye to noisy mechanical timers! Our digital timer offers precise timing without the annoying ticking sound. With a timer duration of up to 99 minutes, it’s perfect for a variety of activities, from playtime to study sessions.
- 🔄【Count Up & Down with Ease】 The intuitive knob design makes adjusting the time a breeze. Whether you need to count up, count down, or pause, this timer is super easy to operate, even for little hands.
- 🌙【Easy to Read, Day or Night】 The backlit display ensures the timer is easy to read, whether you’re in a dimly lit room or across the playground. Choose from three volume settings—high, low, or mute—to suit any environment.
- 🌈【Special Features for Special Kids】 Designed with kids in mind, including those with ADHD or autism, this timer helps in building routines and improving focus. It’s more than just a timer; it’s a tool for developing good habits and enhancing efficiency.
Know which Screen Time labels apply
In Apple’s redesigned controls, limits are organized as Time Allowances and Screen Time Schedules. Earlier instructions may use App Limits and Downtime instead. If a button or menu in these steps is missing, check which Screen Time controls and software version your family is using before following instructions written for a different version. Apple’s earlier iPhone guide describes the older terms and Settings route.
If the request does not arrive
First check that the parent or guardian is in the child’s contacts, since Apple identifies that as a requirement for sending requests. The cited Apple instructions do not establish a single cause or complete troubleshooting procedure for missing requests, so verify your family’s software and Screen Time setup rather than assuming one specific cause.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- CALMER ROUTINES, ONE DOT AT A TIME - TimeBuddy toddler timer uses colorful countdown dots and a smiley face to help kids see time pass - smoother transitions for anyone who thrives on structure, including children with ADHD, autism, or sensory needs
- KIDS SET IT THEMSELVES - Twist to set the time, press to start; Simple enough for ages 3+ to operate this kid timer independently. Remembers your last setting. Includes clock, alarm, and count-up modes - 5 seconds to 99 minutes, your routine helper
- RECHARGEABLE & RELIABLE - USB-C charging lasts up to 2 weeks per charge, so you're never stuck with a dead timer and no batteries on hand. Built to withstand daily handling in classrooms, therapy rooms, and busy family homes
- ADJUSTS TO EVERY SPACE - 3 volume levels: silent, medium, and loud; Clear enough to be heard and seen across any room. No ticking. Adjustable brightness for any environment. The kids visual timer that adapts to your child, not the other way around
- THE TIME MANAGEMENT TOOL THAT WORKS - A visual timer for classroom, home, and therapy settings, built for teeth brushing, potty training, screen time, homework, homeschool, and bedtime routines, with one simple system the whole family can stick to
Rank #4
- 1 Blue & 1 Green digital timers large display and 3 buttones, super easy to read and set up. (Battery Not Included)
- Maximum time is 99 minutes 59 seconds, meet the need of classroom and after-school activity perfectly, great countup / countdown timer for teachers kids.
- Classroom timer with Strong Magnetic back 2.0 retractable stand and hook for hanging, can be positioned in variety of locations, like table, blackboard, dry erase board and wall hooks.
- Memory Setting: You do not need to set the countdown time every time, it will remeber your last time and you only need to press "ST/SP" button.
- Click "Add to Your Cart" get these Perfect teachers & children timer for shower, homework, exercise, gym workout, games and reading.
Rank #3
- Simple Concept: As time passes, the rainbow disk of visual timer disappears counterclockwise; It is interesting and super easy to understand; This timer will help kids and adults develop a good sense of time and improve time management
- Easy to Use: By turning the center knob clockwise, the rainbow disk can be adjusted to the desired time duration, then the kids timer starts to count down; The protective cover is made of healthy materials, it can effectively protect the timer
- No Ticking and Mute Function: No ticking when the kids timer is working, ideal for sound-sensitive environments; 3 alert volumes optional: mute, weak, loud; lasting alarm: 3 seconds/30 seconds. Press the top button to stop the alert
- Suitable for Many Occasions: This 60 minute analog timer can be used in many occasions; It can be used as a kitchen timer, a study timer for kids, a task timer for teachers in the classroom, or a meeting timer
- Low Battery Remind: The indicator light will flash if the battery power of the timer is low; 2*AAA batteries required but not included; If there are any problems with our products, please seek advice from us, we will provide you with satisfying solutions
Rank #2
- 2‑PACK DIGITAL TIMER WITH BATTERY. This set includes 2 digital timers with 2 AAA batteries. It supports both count‑down and count‑up timing, max timing range up to 99 minutes 59 seconds. Built‑in memory function retains your last time setting without repeated reset, suitable for cooking, homework, focus study and workout timing. ( *It can not set Hour. Also no clock function. )
- LOUD AUDIBLE ALARM & SILENT FLASHING RED LIGHT. 2 reminder modes for different environments. Loud beeping alarm can be heard from another room for kitchen cooking. Silent mode triggers flashing red light only, no beep noise, perfect for quiet classroom, kid's study room and library without disturbing others. ( *For alarm mode, timer will beep during setting. )
- 3‑WAY MOUNTING OPTIONS. Each timer features magnetic back to attach on fridge or metal surface; fold‑out kickstand for desktop tabletop placement; hanging hole allows hanging (Need extra small string). 3 placement solutions fit kitchen, classroom, office and home desk scenarios. Small item size: 2.68"D x 2.48"W x 0.63"H. (You will get: 1*Lime Green+ 1*Mint Green digital timers, 2 pcs AAA batteries (Pre-install).
- SIMPLE OPERATION & BATTERIES PRE‑INCLUDED. Easy M/S buttons make time setting intuitive for kids, seniors and teachers. 2‑pack AAA batteries are pre-included in timer, ready to use out of box. When not in use, please manually switch it to shut-off on the backside. ( *It does not feature auto shut off. Its battery can not be charged. )
- WIDE‑APPLICATION HOUSEHOLD & CLASSROOM TIME MANAGEMENT TOOL. Practical timing tool for kitchen baking, egg boiling; classroom teaching for teachers; kids homework & screen‑time control; fitness exercise, hair salon timing and many more daily timing tasks. Perfect as homeschool supplies, classroom must haves, back to school supplies & teacher essentials. Compact lightweight design for home and travel use.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
