Types of Routines
Prefer to stick to one solid ruleset to keep it simple? Just focus on the Default Rules routine!
Otherwise, use these routines to schedule automatic rules throughout the day or week.
For example:
🟪 Bedtime: Limit device usage when it’s time for lights out. Customize what kids can access during Bedtime.
🟩 School time: Limit what can be accessed during the school day. Customize the apps/sites they need for school or homework, like Zoom or Google Workspace.
🟨 Free time: Dedicated time to use devices just for fun.
🟦 Any other time (Default rules): The default rules when other routines aren't scheduled.
How to schedule routines
On your Bark parent app / dashboard, tap your child's name.
Scroll down to Schedule.
To schedule a routine, tap the gray +Add.
To edit the existing schedule of a routine, tap
on the top right of the routine.To apply a temporary override for a routine, tap Start or Delay, whichever applicable.
To view your schedule in a week format, tap the 🗓️ calendar to the right of Schedule.
To delete a routine, tap the 🗓️ calendar to the right of Schedule, tap the routine, and then tap the
trash can.
Changes may take a few minutes to take effect.
How your kid sees routine changes...
When the active routine changes, your child will see a full-screen notification (e.g. "Your phone is now in Bedtime mode!") if they're currently using their phone.
Your child can also see the current active routine at any time by tapping into the
Bark Kids app.
How to customize rules per routine
On your Bark parent app / dashboard, tap your child's name.
The routine currently in effect says Active.
Changes may take a few minutes to take effect.
Copy rules
You can copy the screen time routine and app blocking rules you've set up for another kid, saving you time.
Learn more: Copy screen time rules from one kid to another
Daily Time Limits vs. Routines
As discussed in this article, routines help you set schedules for your kid's app and site time. You can pick specific blocks during the week that they can use their favorite apps.
But sometimes you don't care when they use those apps, you just want to make sure they don't go overboard. That's where Bark Phone's daily time limits come in! You can set a maximum number of minutes or hours per day for app usage. It's an easy way to keep things in check without worrying about the clock.