Kids Mode on Microsoft Edge: How to Use It

Kids Mode in Microsoft Edge creates a safe, simplified browsing space for children, with built-in content filters, a colorful interface, and no access to browser settings or adult sites. You can set it up in under a minute, and it works on Windows and Mac. Here’s exactly how to turn it on, customize it, and exit it.

What You’ll Need

• Microsoft Edge installed (any recent version, updated to the latest).
• A Microsoft account (optional, but needed to sync settings or use some features).
• Windows 10/11 or macOS – Kids Mode is not available on Linux or mobile versions.

Step-by-Step

1. Open Microsoft Edge. Make sure you’re using the desktop browser, not the mobile app.
2. Click your profile icon – it’s the small circle or person icon in the top-right corner of the browser window.
3. Select “Browse in Kids Mode” – it’s usually the second option in the dropdown menu, with a child-like icon.
4. Choose an age range. You’ll see two options: 5-8 years and 9-12 years. The younger range uses a stricter filter and a simpler layout. Click the one that fits your child.
5. Wait for Kids Mode to load. A new window will open with a colorful theme and a large “Kids Mode” label at the top. This is a separate browsing session – your normal tabs and history are not visible.
6. Let your child browse. They can only visit sites that Microsoft’s curated allowlist permits. If they try to go to a blocked site, they’ll see a “This site is blocked” page with a fun illustration.
7. Exit Kids Mode – click the Exit Kids Mode button in the top-right corner of the Kids Mode window. You’ll be asked to enter your Windows or Mac password to confirm. Once you do, Edge returns to your normal profile.

Common Mistakes

• Not setting up a password or PIN. If you don’t have a password on your Windows/Mac account, anyone can exit Kids Mode without confirmation. Set a password or PIN in your system settings first.
• Choosing the wrong age range. The 5-8 range blocks more sites and disables the address bar for typing. If your child needs to type URLs, choose 9-12.
• Forgetting that Kids Mode is a separate profile. Bookmarks and history from your normal browsing are not available inside Kids Mode, and vice versa.
• Assuming Kids Mode blocks everything. It’s a filter, not a guarantee. Some inappropriate content can slip through, especially on sites that are not in Microsoft’s database. Always supervise younger children.
• Not updating Edge. Older versions may not have Kids Mode or may have outdated filters. Keep Edge updated to get the latest safety features.

Tips

• Customize the allowlist. In Kids Mode, click the Settings gear icon (top-right) to add or remove specific sites. You can also turn off the “Allow typing in the address bar” option for the 9-12 range.
• Use the “Forget” button. If your child ends a session, you can clear their browsing data by clicking the trash icon in the Kids Mode toolbar.
• Set a time limit. Kids Mode doesn’t have a built-in timer, but you can use Windows Family Safety or macOS Screen Time to limit how long Edge can be used.
• Pin Kids Mode to the taskbar or dock. Right-click the Edge icon and choose “Pin to taskbar” (Windows) or drag it to the Dock (Mac). Then your child can launch it directly without opening your normal browser.
• Explain the rules. Kids Mode is a tool, not a babysitter. Talk to your child about what they can do and why some sites are blocked.

Troubleshooting

• Kids Mode won’t open. Make sure Edge is fully updated. Go to edge://settings/help and check for updates. If it still doesn’t work, restart your computer.
• Can’t exit Kids Mode. You must enter your Windows/Mac password. If you forgot it, you’ll need to reset your system password. There’s no bypass inside Edge.
• A site is blocked that shouldn’t be. You can add it to the allowlist: in Kids Mode, go to Settings > Manage allowed sites and type the full URL. If the site is still blocked, it might be on a global blocklist – try a different URL or contact the site owner.
• Kids Mode is not available. This feature is only on desktop Windows and Mac. If you’re on Linux or a mobile device, you won’t see it. Also, some older Edge versions (before 2020) don’t have it – update Edge.
• My child can see my bookmarks/history. Kids Mode runs in a separate profile, but if you’re signed in with a Microsoft account, some data might sync. To be safe, sign out of your personal account in the normal browser before handing the device to your child.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Kids Mode work on mobile?

No, Kids Mode is only available on the desktop versions of Edge for Windows and macOS. On mobile, you can use the built-in parental controls of your phone’s operating system.

Can I set a time limit inside Kids Mode?

No, there’s no built-in timer. Use Windows Family Safety or macOS Screen Time to limit how long Edge can be used.

What happens if my child tries to visit a blocked site?

They’ll see a friendly “Blocked” page with a message that the site isn’t allowed. They can’t bypass it without your password.

Can I add my own sites to the allowed list?

Yes. In Kids Mode, click the gear icon, then “Manage allowed sites” and add any URL you want to allow.

Does Kids Mode collect data?

Microsoft says Kids Mode does not send browsing history to Microsoft, and it blocks most tracking cookies. However, sites themselves may still collect data.

Can I use Kids Mode without a Microsoft account?

Yes, you can use it without signing in. But signing in lets you sync settings and manage the allowlist across devices.

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