Guided Access on iPhone - How to Lock Your Device to One App

What is Guided Access:
Guided Access is a built-in iPhone and iPad accessibility feature that restricts device usage to a single app and allows parents to control which features are available. Perfect for toddler app time without accidental exits or unwanted interactions.

How to Enable Guided Access:
1. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Guided Access
2. Turn on Guided Access
3. Set a passcode (different from your device passcode)
4. Configure accessibility shortcuts if desired
5. Open the app you want to restrict to
6. Triple-click the home button (or side button on newer devices)
7. Adjust settings and tap "Start"

Key Features for Parents:
- Locks device to one specific app
- Disables hardware buttons (home, volume, sleep)
- Allows disabling of specific screen areas
- Sets time limits with automatic shutdown
- Prevents accidental app switching
- Blocks access to notifications and control center

Benefits for Toddler App Use:
- Prevents accidental exits from educational apps
- Stops unwanted purchases or downloads
- Eliminates distracting notifications
- Ensures focused learning time
- Reduces parent anxiety about device misuse
- Creates consistent app experience

Setting Up for Little Wheels Apps:
1. Open Talk & Listen or Create & Play
2. Enable Guided Access (triple-click home/side button)
3. Disable volume buttons if desired
4. Set appropriate time limit (10-20 minutes recommended)
5. Tap areas of screen to disable if needed
6. Start session

Best Practices:
- Set reasonable time limits (10-30 minutes)
- Explain to child what will happen when time is up
- Use consistent routine for starting and ending
- Have transition activity ready
- Don't use during emotional moments
- Practice enabling/disabling when child isn't around

Troubleshooting Tips:
- If triple-click doesn't work, check accessibility settings
- Make sure passcode is different from device unlock code
- Restart device if Guided Access becomes unresponsive
- Update iOS if experiencing bugs
- Check that app is compatible with Guided Access

Safety Considerations:
- Always supervise young children with devices
- Set volume limits to protect hearing
- Take regular breaks from screen time
- Use in well-lit environments
- Keep devices clean and sanitized

Guided Access works perfectly with educational apps like Little Wheels that are designed for focused, intentional play without ads or distracting elements.

Remember: Guided Access is a tool to support intentional device use, not a replacement for active parental engagement and supervision.