The parental control function on Apple computers is actually quite practical, especially for families with children. You don't need to install extra software, the system's own features can help you limit usage time, manage applications and filter web content. The key is to set up properly, which can protect children without affecting normal use.

How to enable parental control and create a controlled account

First of all, you need to create a "controlled" user account on your Mac, which is the prerequisite for enabling parental control. The operation steps are as follows:

• Open System Settings
• Enter Users & Groups
• Click the unlock icon in the lower left corner and enter the administrator password
• Click the " " sign to add a new user and select "Managed Users"

After creation is completed, you can set various restrictions for this account. Note: You need to be an administrator to perform these operations.

Time limit: Control how long it can be used every day

You can set when your child can use the computer every day and how long each time it will last. For example, you can play for 1 hour after school, but you can't use it after 8 pm.

Specific setup method:

• Select the managed account in the user list
• Click the "Parent Control..." button
• Switch to the Time Limit tab
• Drag the time grid to set the allowed time period

This function is especially suitable for preventing staying up late and using the computer, and can also help children establish good working and rest habits.

Application restrictions: Which apps can be used and which cannot be used

Mac's parental controls also support restricting the use of certain applications, such as games, social software, etc. You can switch to the Applications tab in the Parental Control interface and select whether to allow the following three types of applications:

• game
• Communication applications (such as FaceTime, Messages)
• Unapproved apps (not allowed by default)

If you find that a program should not be used by your children, just uncheck it. This is more flexible and more acceptable than banning the use of computers altogether.

Web content filtering: block unsuitable content

Network access control is also an important part of parental control. There are three modes you can choose:

• All websites are allowed
• Restrict adult websites (the system automatically recognizes and blocks)
• Custom black and white list (manually add allowed or blocked URLs)

It is recommended to start using the option "restricted adult websites" as it is enough in most cases. If more granular control is required, consider custom lists. For example, block some video platforms or social networking sites.

Basically that's it. After setting it once, the parent control will be automatically run and you don’t need to worry about it every day. However, it is still necessary to check whether the settings are appropriate occasionally.

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