Apple TV Control with Hubitat: A Family-Safe Solution

As a parent of young children, ensuring they don’t access inappropriate content on our Apple TVs has been a top priority. I stumbled upon a fantastic setup using Hubitat and Rule Machine (RM) that not only solves this issue but also adds a layer of security and convenience. Here’s how I implemented it, in case others are looking for a similar solution.**The Challenge:**Our kids often sneak out of bed and watch TV, sometimes stumbling upon content that’s not age-appropriate. We needed a way to monitor their door activity and automatically control the Apple TVs.**The Solution:**1. Door Sensor Integration: I installed a contact sensor on their bedroom door. This sensor triggers a virtual switch in Hubitat when the door opens. 2. Virtual Switch Automation: The virtual switch is set to automatically turn off after 2 seconds. This ensures that the automation doesn’t stay active longer than necessary.3. HomeKit Integration: By exposing the virtual switch to Apple’s HomeKit, I created a routine that pauses all Apple TVs when the virtual switch is triggered. This is done through Apple’s native app, ensuring seamless integration.4. Light Flash Alert: To alert us without disturbing the kids too much, I programmed a soft flash of the downstairs lights. This subtle cue lets us know someone is up without being too disruptive.Setup Steps:- Contact Sensor Installation: Placed a contact sensor on the bedroom door to detect any movement.- RM Rule Creation: Configured a rule in Hubitat’s Rule Machine to trigger the virtual switch when the door opens during bedtime hours (7:30 PM to 10:30 PM).- HomeKit Routine: Set up a routine in the Home app to pause media on all Apple TVs when the virtual switch is activated.- Light Automation: Added a rule to dim the downstairs lights slightly and then turn them off, creating a soft flash effect.Bonus Features:- Notifications: The HomeKit integration also sends notifications to my phone when the door opens, keeping me informed in real-time.- Roku Integration: For added security, I integrated our Roku TV to pause as well, ensuring no content is accessible without supervision.**Outcome:**This setup has been a game-changer for our family. It provides peace of mind knowing that our children’s screen time is monitored and safe. Plus, the automation is so seamless that it feels like a natural extension of our home’s security system.If you’re looking to add a similar layer of protection and convenience to your smart home, I highly recommend exploring Hubitat’s integration with Apple HomeKit. It opens up a world of possibilities for family-friendly automation!