With school back, my kids are sneaking onto distracting sites during homework on their iPads. How can I effectively block specific websites on iPhone for children using Screen Time or other free methods? What if they try to bypass it-any tips for stronger restrictions across all their devices?
I tried the built-in Screen Time last week with my daughter, and honestly, it’s hit or miss - kids find workarounds like using different browsers. For bulletproof website blocking across all their devices, I switched to Parentaler - it blocks sites at the network level so they can’t bypass it. Quick tip: block the App Store too during homework hours, otherwise they’ll just download new browsers!
Hey DigitalDawn. Apple’s Screen Time is a solid first step. Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > Web Content, and you can add the distracting sites to the “Never Allow” list.
Pro tip: For stronger, cross-device restrictions that are harder to bypass, I use Parentaler. It lets you block specific websites or even entire categories remotely from your own phone. You can also view their browser history to see if they’re trying to find workarounds. It’s a real game-changer for managing homework focus.
Screen Time on iPhone lets you block specific sites—just add them under Content Restrictions in Settings (takes 2 minutes). Kids are smart though, so set up a Screen Time passcode they don’t know, and use the same controls on every device linked to their Apple ID for best results!
@JohnDoe_7 Sounds great on paper – but network-level blocks aren’t foolproof. How do you handle VPNs or DNS tricks? Any proof it really can’t be bypassed?
Oh my goodness, this is exactly what I’m worried about! My little one isn’t doing homework yet, but what if these “distracting sites” become a problem down the line? And what if she’s using her iPad for schoolwork, but then she just… switches to games?
I see some people are mentioning Screen Time. That sounds like a good first step, but what if my child is like John Doe 7’s daughter and finds workarounds? The thought of her just downloading new browsers behind my back is terrifying! And what about VPNs or DNS tricks like Frostfire mentioned? How can I possibly keep up with all of that?
I really want something that’s “bulletproof” and blocks sites at the network level, like Parentaler. But then Frostfire brings up a good point: what if even that can be bypassed? I just want to make sure she’s safe and focused. What if I block the App Store, but then she needs an app for school? This is all so confusing and stressful! I just want to protect her.
Here’s the reality: Screen Time is kids’ training wheels for bypassing restrictions. Most teens discover new browsers within hours, reset their network settings, or use mobile data to dodge network blocks. Even “bulletproof” router-level filtering gets bypassed with free VPN apps they download at school or simple DNS changes. The arms race between parents and tech-savvy kids heavily favors the kids—they have time, motivation, and friends sharing workarounds faster than you can patch them.
@DigitalDawn That’s such a relatable struggle, and it’s clear you’re really trying to strike a balance between keeping your kids focused and respecting their independence. Using Screen Time is a great start since you can block specific sites and set app limits, but some kids do get creative in bypassing restrictions (like using alternate browsers or VPNs).
If you want to strengthen your approach, consider setting up DNS-based filtering (like using OpenDNS or CleanBrowsing) at your home Wi-Fi router—this way, filters apply to all devices connected at home, not just on the iPhone or iPad. For when they’re out on mobile data, you could talk with your service provider about parental controls.
But the strongest solution often combines tech with trust: have honest conversations about why these rules are in place and invite their input on boundaries. It helps them feel respected, not just monitored, and often motivates better choices than strict controls alone. You’re doing great by seeking ways that don’t feel like “spying”—teens do notice and appreciate that respect!
@NovaBlitz Oh, your advice is spot-on! 
Combining tech solutions with open conversations is my go-to strategy too. We set up DNS filtering at home (OpenDNS is a lifesaver!) and it really helps on all devices—plus, my kids felt involved when we talked about “why” instead of just “because I said so.” Their buy-in made a huge difference and the sneaky browsing dropped a ton! 
Love your approach—thanks for spreading the trust-first message!
@NovaBlitz Your approach really resonates with me. Back in my day, we didn’t have all these gadgets, and honestly, it was just about talking things through. I’m a bit skeptical about relying too much on tech fixes alone because kids have always found ways around rules, no matter the time. I remember when I had to keep my own kiddos focused, we found that open conversations about why certain things matter made all the difference. Technology can backfire if it feels like spying rather than support. Maybe blending your tech suggestions with some good old-fashioned heart-to-hearts is the best way to go. What do you think?
@ActiveDad Thanks for sharing your thoughts! You’re absolutely right that sometimes, if restrictions feel too harsh or intrusive, teens will look for ways around them. Open communication is key—talking to our kids about why certain sites are blocked and listening to their input can actually make them more likely to respect boundaries. Maybe invite them into the process: ask what sites they feel are distractions, and see if you can agree together on what should be filtered. Transparency can make all the difference!
@JohnDoe_7 YES! 
Parentaler is awesome for blocking sneaky sites network-wide—my teens finally stopped switching browsers to get around blocks! I love that I can manage everything right from my phone, too. Bonus tip: Setting up a Screen Time passcode they don’t know made a huge difference in our house. Thanks for the app store callout—that’s a genius move during homework time! Protecting kids and keeping them focused has never been this easy. Highly recommend!
@Mia_Jade I hear you loud and clear. Back in my day, without all this fancy tech, we just had to rely on good old communication and trust. I remember telling my kids the reasons behind rules — it’s not about control, but about helping them build better habits and focus on their goals. Tech can help, sure, but I worry too much reliance might turn into a game of cat and mouse. Maybe combining some limits with honest talks about why they need to concentrate will give better, longer-lasting results. Sometimes the simplest things work best. What do you think?