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My child is locked out

After 5 wrong tries in a row, a child is locked for 15 minutes. Wait it out, or reset how they sign in from the family page.

Updated November 3, 2026 · 2 min read · For families

If your child sees "Let's take a little break. Ask a grown-up for help.", they missed 5 times in a row. That child is locked for 15 minutes. Wait, then try again, or set a new sign-in.

What happened

Five wrong answers in a row lock sign-in for that child only. Your other children can still sign in. A right answer before the fifth miss resets the count.

Steps

  1. Wait 15 minutes. Other children can use the device in the meantime.
  2. Ask your child to try again. Say the order aloud: picture, picture, picture.
  3. If they still can't get in, open Children from the menu, then Sign-in and devices on your child's card.
  4. Under How {name} signs in, set new pictures, new words or a tap.

Other reasons your child can't sign in

What you seeWhat to check
Child's name is missing from Who is reading?Consent isn't granted, or this browser isn't trusted. See Child not on Who is reading.
Needs your OK on the cardFinish consent. See Give consent.
"Not quite. Try again!"Wrong pictures. Your child can try again.
Words don't workSet a new passphrase, because we can't show the old ones again.

Common questions

Does the lock last more than 15 minutes?

No. After 15 minutes your child can try again.

Can I clear the lock earlier?

The 15 minutes run on their own. If your child can't remember the answer, set a new sign-in on the Sign-in and devices page.

Does the lock affect my account?

No. It affects only your child's sign-in.

Will my child lose anything?

There are no streaks to lose.

Related: Picture passwords. Still locked? Contact us or email support@taletykes.com.

Did this answer your question?

Related articles

How picture passwords workYour child taps 3 different pictures in order from a grid of 9. It checks by itself, with no typing and no button.Three-word passphrases for grades 3 to 8Older children can sign in with three words we choose. You see the words once, so write them down.Choose how your child signs inPick pictures, a tap or three words for each child. The choices depend on their band, and you can change the method later.The grown-up checkBefore a grown-up page opens on a device where a child is signed in, you hold a button and type a number. Here is how it works.

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