No password for them to remember. Just scan and go.
Once you’ve created your child’s profile, there are a few simple ways to get them signed in — whether you’re standing right next to them, setting things up remotely, or switching your own device over. Works on any tablet, phone, or web browser.
Why a QR code?
Protected users don’t have their own credentials. There’s no email or password for your child to manage — and none for them to forget, share, or misuse. Instead, you generate a time-limited QR code from their device. You scan it with your device and select which child to sign in, and they’re in.
The sign in process is designed to be simple. It works similarly to how you are able to sign into apps on smart tvs – using QR codes, and your own devices camera.
There’s also a third option if it’s your own device: you can switch it over to their account directly, with no code at all. All three methods are covered below.
Three ways to sign your child in
However you and your child are set up on any given day, there’s a way to get them signed in — whether you’re side by side, states apart, or just want to check something on their account yourself.
Quick Scan
The fastest way to sign your child in when you’re standing right next to them — a quick scan and they’re done.
- Install ChatMinder on your child’s device and open it to the Sign In screen.
- Tap Sign In Protected User — their device shows a QR code and an 8-digit backup code.
- On your own (already signed-in) device, scan the code with your camera — or type in the 8-digit code if scanning isn’t convenient.
- Choose your child from the list of accounts and confirm.
- Their device signs in automatically. Done.
Remote Setup
Perfect for a child at a grandparent’s house, on a school trip, or setting up a new device you’re not holding yourself.
- Have your child open ChatMinder and tap Sign In Protected User on their end — their device shows a QR code and 8-digit code.
- On your device, go to Supervision → their profile → Device Setup → Sign in on another device.
- Scan the code from a photo or video call, or simply have them read you the 8-digit code to type in.
- Confirm their name — their device signs in automatically, wherever they are.
Direct Switch
Want to check something on your child’s account using your own phone or tablet? You can switch straight into their account — no code needed.
- Go to Supervision → their profile → Device Setup → Sign in on this device.
- Confirm the switch — you’ll be signed out as guardian and straight into their account on that device.
- Sign back in with your own details any time you want to return to guardian mode.
Works on any device they already have
- iPhone or iPad — download ChatMinder from the App Store
- Android phone or tablet — download from Google Play
- Any web browser — no download needed; works on Chromebooks, older tablets, and desktop browsers
There’s no need for a dedicated device or a specific operating system. ChatMinder works wherever your child already is.
New device? New QR code. Done.
If your child gets a new device, is signed out, or needs to sign in on a second device, just perform any of the methods above again — Remote Setup is especially handy here if you’re not both holding the new device at the same time. Multiple devices can be signed in simultaneously, so they can use ChatMinder on both a tablet and a phone if needed.
You’re always in control
Every protected user’s access is shaped by the protection level and permissions you choose — covering who they can contact, what needs your approval, and which features are available to them. If you ever need to fully revoke access, deleting their profile immediately blocks sign-in on every device — a clear, deliberate action that only you can take.
What to do next
Set their protection level → — Choose how much independence they have
Set up contact protection → — Control who they can chat with
Enable message approval → — Review messages before they’re delivered
Ready to get started?
It takes minutes to set up. No phone number or email required for your child.