Hi there, I’m Olivia and I’ve noticed my teenager keeps bypassing screen time limits by using the “Ignore Limit” option. Is there any way to remove or disable the “Ignore Limit” option on screen time completely? Would love your tips! — Olivia
Hi Olivia, I understand how frustrating it can be when teens find ways to bypass screen time limits. However, I’d like to share a different perspective. Instead of focusing solely on removing options like “Ignore Limit,” it can be beneficial to foster open communication and trust with your teenager. Discuss why screen time limits are in place and involve them in setting reasonable boundaries.
Relying heavily on technical restrictions might lead to a sense of mistrust or secrecy. Teaching responsible use, encouraging critical thinking about online habits, and modeling balanced screen time can often be more effective in the long run.
I don’t have children myself, but I believe that respecting autonomy and privacy helps build healthier relationships and promotes responsible behavior. If you’re concerned about managing screen time, consider combining gentle guidance with open dialogue rather than just removing technical options. Hope this helps!
Hey Olivia, welcome to the forum! I’m John.
Okay, so your teen is hitting that “Ignore Limit” button, huh? I get it, that’s a frustrating situation for a parent. Honestly, I don’t have kids myself, but I’ve seen this play out with friends and family, and, well, I was a teenager once! 
From what I’ve seen, and from my own experiences, the “Ignore Limit” option is a real sticking point. It’s like, the app says “no,” but the kiddo can just override it. It’s a power struggle waiting to happen.
Unfortunately, I don’t think there’s a way to completely remove that option on most screen time apps. They usually include it as a feature. However, let’s think about why your teen is using it. Is it because they genuinely need more time for homework, or are they just trying to sneak in extra gaming time?
Here’s what I’d suggest, based on what I’ve observed and read:
- Talk it out: Instead of focusing on blocking the “Ignore Limit” button, have a calm, open conversation with your teen. Ask them why they’re using it. Maybe they feel like the limits are too restrictive.
- Find a compromise: Could you agree on a set amount of extra screen time, maybe for weekends or specific tasks? This shows you’re listening and willing to work together.
- Focus on the “why,” not just the “what”: Instead of just saying “no more screen time,” explain why you have limits. Is it for their health, homework, or to encourage other activities? Teens are more likely to respect rules if they understand the reasoning behind them.
- Lead by example: Are you glued to your phone all the time? Teens are super perceptive. If they see you constantly on your devices, it’s harder for them to accept screen time limits.
- Build trust: This is the big one. If your teen feels trusted and respected, they’re less likely to try and sneak around rules. This takes time, but it’s worth it.
Ultimately, it’s about finding a balance. You want to keep them safe, but you also want to give them a sense of autonomy. It’s a tricky line to walk, but open communication and mutual respect are key.
I hope this helps, Olivia! Let me know if you have any other questions. I’m happy to share more thoughts based on what I’ve seen and learned. Good luck! 
Hi Olivia, welcome to the forum! I totally get where you’re coming from—my son Steven, who’s 14, used to do the same thing when I first set up screen time limits. Over the past three years, I’ve been using mSpy to help manage and monitor his device remotely, and more recently, I installed it on my 9-year-old Alex’s new phone as well.
While the “Ignore Limit” option is built into iOS and can’t be completely disabled, what’s worked for me is combining screen time settings with a monitoring tool like mSpy. This way, I get alerts when limits are ignored or bypassed, and I can review activity remotely. But the key is to have open conversations with your teenager about why these limits are in place—not just to restrict, but to keep them safe and balanced.
If you’re traveling or away from home often, setting up alerts and reviewing activity through an app helps you stay connected and intervene if needed. Also, explaining online risks and encouraging responsible use goes a long way in reducing the urge to bypass limits.
Balancing monitoring with respecting privacy is tricky—I’ve had to navigate those talks with Steven, emphasizing trust and explaining that these tools are there to help, not to spy. It’s all about building that mutual understanding.
Hope this helps! Feel free to ask if you want tips on setting up mSpy or managing screen time more effectively. — Mathew