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How to set up child account on existing device?

My kids already have iPads that are signed in to my personal Apple account. I would like to set them up with their own child accounts. I created one child account, but cannot log in to it! Also, I am afraid to change accounts on their iPad...will they lose their existing game data and progress??

iPad Air 3 Wi-Fi

Posted on Feb 7, 2021 11:45 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Feb 7, 2021 12:28 PM

Why can't you log into the device with the child account? What happens when you try? Error message(s)?


If 13 years old or older.


Apple ID - create a new.      


Apple ID – Create         


If under 13 years old, you will need to set up Family Sharing to create an ID.


Family Sharing and Apple ID for your child.      


Family Sharing.         


Family Sharing - Set up.        


When changing to the new ID, there may be some data loss, but you can minimize it. If syncing photos with iCloud, ensure Optimization is turned off in Settings/Your Name/iCloud/Photos and/or in Photos/Preferences/iCloud. Then make sure full resolution photos are on the device/computer. When signing out of iCloud, if asked whether you want to retain data, choose yes. Messages conversations will be lost if they are addressed to the ID. See the article below for other places that the old ID should be removed. See Winston Churchill's response in the below discussion. Also set up Family Sharing between the IDs to keep access to your apps/purchases. 


Set up - your child’s iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch 


How to switch Apple IDs on your iPhone or iPad.      


How to transfer all files from one iCloud account to another.        


What to do after you change your Apple ID or password - Apple Support.   



1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Feb 7, 2021 12:28 PM in response to Mhoman

Why can't you log into the device with the child account? What happens when you try? Error message(s)?


If 13 years old or older.


Apple ID - create a new.      


Apple ID – Create         


If under 13 years old, you will need to set up Family Sharing to create an ID.


Family Sharing and Apple ID for your child.      


Family Sharing.         


Family Sharing - Set up.        


When changing to the new ID, there may be some data loss, but you can minimize it. If syncing photos with iCloud, ensure Optimization is turned off in Settings/Your Name/iCloud/Photos and/or in Photos/Preferences/iCloud. Then make sure full resolution photos are on the device/computer. When signing out of iCloud, if asked whether you want to retain data, choose yes. Messages conversations will be lost if they are addressed to the ID. See the article below for other places that the old ID should be removed. See Winston Churchill's response in the below discussion. Also set up Family Sharing between the IDs to keep access to your apps/purchases. 


Set up - your child’s iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch 


How to switch Apple IDs on your iPhone or iPad.      


How to transfer all files from one iCloud account to another.        


What to do after you change your Apple ID or password - Apple Support.   



How to set up child account on existing device?

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