Bark lets you manage what your child can access on their device and when — whether that means no social media after bedtime, no YouTube during school hours, or something else entirely.
Types of routines
Routines let you schedule different rules throughout the day or week. If you'd rather keep things simple, just use the Default Rules routine as your one set of rules.
Here are the built-in routine types:
🟪 Bedtime: Limit device usage when it’s time for lights out.
🟩 School time: Restrict access during the school day, while still allowing apps they need like Zoom or Google Workspace.
🟨 Free time: Dedicated time to use devices for fun.
🟦 Any other time (Default rules): The rules that apply whenever no other routine is scheduled.
How to schedule routines
On your Bark parent app / dashboard, tap your child's name.
Scroll down to Schedule.
To add a routine, tap the gray +Add.
To edit a routine's schedule, tap the
icon on top right of the routine.
To apply a temporary override, tap Start or Delay.
To view your schedule by week, tap the 🗓️ calendar icon to next to Schedule.
To delete a routine, tap the 🗓️ calendar icon next to Schedule, tap the routine, then tap the
trash can.
Changes may take a few minutes to take effect.
Your child can check the current active routine at any time in the
Bark Kids app.
How to customize rules per routine
On your Bark parent app / dashboard, tap your child's name.
Scroll down to Settings.
Tap Apps & Internet.
Tap Rules to manage rules for a routine. The routine currently in effect says Active.
Changes may take a few minutes to take effect.
Copy rules to another child
You can copy a child's screen time and app blocking rules to another child to save time. Learn how.
App block vs. category block
You can block a specific app or block everything within a category, like blocking only Netflix or all streaming apps. Our categories cover tens of thousands of apps and sites, so if you don't see a specific app listed, it's likely already covered by a category rule.
You can also block a category while still allowing a specific app within it. For example, you can block the Social Media category while still allowing Discord.
Daily time limits vs. routines
Routines control when your child can access apps and sites. Daily time limits control how long they can use them, regardless of the time of day. Use both together for the most control.
Need help?
Check out our troubleshooting guide.