Last month, I had the chance to attend a special Apple event in New York City (and yes, it was as exciting as it sounds!). As a mom, I’m always looking for ways to balance giving my kids independence while still keeping them safe online. So, when Apple shared its brand-new features to help parents protect kids and teens across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and even Apple Watch, I knew I had to tell you all about it.
The updates rolled out with the latest software releases—iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, watchOS 26, visionOS 26, and tvOS 26—and honestly, they’re game changers for families. Here are the highlights I think moms (and dads!) will appreciate most:
1. Fixing “Grown-Up” Accounts for Kids
Have your kids ever inherited an older Apple device and ended up using an adult account? (Same here). Now, parents can easily correct the age on that account and convert it into a proper Child Account. That means instant access to Apple’s full suite of parental controls, with the right default settings for their age.
2. Communication Limits—With a Parent’s Approval First
One of the biggest updates: if your child wants to connect with someone new on Messages, FaceTime, Phone, or iCloud, they now have to send you a request first!!!!! You can approve or deny the request with a single tap through your Messages app. No more mystery contacts slipping in unnoticed.
3. Communication Safety Is Now On By Default
Apple’s Communication Safety feature, which blurs or warns kids about sensitive photos and videos, is now automatically turned on for ages 13–17. Plus, it now works in more places like FaceTime video calls and Shared Albums in Photos. I love that this isn’t something you have to remember to turn on.
4. A Smarter, Safer App Store for Teens
Apple updated its App Store age ratings to be more specific: now you’ll see categories for 13+, 16+, and 18+. This makes it easier for parents to know what’s appropriate at different ages.
Even better, parents can share their child’s age range with apps in a privacy-protected way. That means app developers can adjust experiences to be more age-appropriate. And you don’t have to share exact birthdates.
5. Ask to Buy Gets Even Better
Most of us are already familiar with Ask to Buy (a lifesaver in my house). Now, parents can grant exceptions if they feel comfortable letting their child download an app that’s normally above their set restrictions. PS, you can revoke that permission anytime.
6. Earlier Updates That Make Parenting Easier
Apple has also been rolling out features throughout the year that I didn’t realize were already here:
- Streamlined Child Account Setup – From the moment a new device is turned on, kids can start with age-appropriate defaults, even if you finish setting up later.
- Screen Time Passcode Notifications – If your child tries entering the Screen Time passcode, you’ll get an alert. It’s a great nudge to reset it (and a reminder to have a conversation if needed).
7. Easy Check-ins
One of my favorite features for moms is on the Apple Watch—you can now set it up to automatically let you know when your child arrives at a designated spot, like home, school, or even grandma’s house. No more texting, “Did you get there yet?” or waiting for them to check in. The watch quietly does it for you, giving you peace of mind without putting pressure on your child to remember. It’s such a simple way to stay connected and ease that everyday mom worry.
Why This Matters for Moms Like Us
Our kids are growing up in a world where phones, apps, and online connections are just part of daily life. And while that comes with incredible opportunities, it also brings a lot of responsibility. I walked away from Apple’s NYC event feeling really encouraged—these tools make it so much easier for parents to stay in the loop, set boundaries, and keep kids safe without hovering 24/7.