# How do I set up an iPad for my autistic child?

> Guided Access, Screen Time, a sturdy case, a tidy home screen and the apps worth installing first.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/ipad-apps-for-autism
By The Autism Kit team · Updated 2026-09-29

**Short answer:** Put the iPad in a sturdy case, keep the home screen simple (one page, only the apps your child needs), and turn on Guided Access so you can lock the iPad to one app, like a visual schedule, during routines. Use Screen Time to limit games and block purchases. Install tool apps first: a visual schedule or first-then app, and an AAC app if your speech therapist recommends one.

**Key takeaways**
- Use a **sturdy case**.
- Keep the **home screen simple**.
- Turn on **Guided Access** to lock one app.
- Install **tool apps first**.

## What settings help most?

| Setting | Why |
| --- | --- |
| Guided Access | Locks the iPad to one app during routines |
| Screen Time | Limits games and blocks purchases |
| One-page home screen | Fewer choices, easier to find tools |
| Notifications off | No pop-ups during routines |
| Volume limit | Protects sensitive ears |

Apple explains how to turn on Guided Access in Settings, Accessibility.[1]

## Which apps should I install first?

1. **A visual schedule or first-then app** for routines.
2. **An AAC app**, if your child's speech therapist recommends one.[2]
3. **A few calm, ad-free play apps.**

Read more: [What are the best visual schedule apps?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/visual-schedule-apps)

**Try:**
- A folder for tool apps
- The same layout every day
- Charging it in the same place

**Skip:**
- Apps with ads
- Rearranging icons often
- Using the communication iPad for games

Free printable: [Free printable: starter pack](https://theautismkit.com/printables/starter-pack.pdf)

## What can I set up this week?

- [ ] Turn on Guided Access
- [ ] Make a one-page home screen
- [ ] Install one routine app

## Common questions

### What is Guided Access?

An iPad feature that locks the device to one app and can disable parts of the screen. Your child can't leave the app without your passcode.

### iPad or iPhone?

An iPad's larger screen makes pictures easier to see and tap, especially for young children.

### Should my child have their own iPad?

A dedicated iPad helps if it's used for communication or schedules, so it's always set up the same way.

## Sources

1. Apple Support: Use Guided Access with iPhone and iPad. https://support.apple.com/en-us/111795
2. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association: Augmentative and alternative communication. https://www.asha.org/public/speech/disorders/aac/

General guidance, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Talk with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist about your child's care.