Turn an Old iPhone Into a Kids "Home Phone" over Wi‑Fi

An old iPhone on Wi‑Fi can be your child's home phone—no SIM or phone plan required. Install Kids Call Home for parent-approved family calling, then use Apple Assistive Access, Guided Access, or Screen Time to keep the handset simple and calm.

Assistive Access simplifies the home screen to large tiles and allowed apps; Kids Call Home is the family-only calling lane. Pair with Screen Time and Guided Access as needed—KCH does not lock iOS for you.

Frequently asked questions

Can an old iPhone be a kids home phone without a SIM?

Yes. Connect to Wi‑Fi and use parent-approved contacts. Remove the SIM or use airplane mode with Wi‑Fi enabled to avoid carrier charges.

Should I use Assistive Access or Screen Time?

Use Assistive Access for a simplified everyday home screen; use Screen Time for ongoing App Store and Safari limits. Many families use both, plus Guided Access for one-app call sessions.