For iPads able to run iOS 6+, you can activate "Guided Access" mode. Apps being run in this mode can have disabled hardware buttons and deactivate certain areas on-screen.
Once the global setting is enabled (Settings > General > Accessibility), triple-clicking the home button activates and deactivates the mode. There is a passcode, distinct from the unlock code, to exit "Guided Access."
I became familiar with this as part of an iPad kiosk project, and when my toddler discovered that iPads exist, it has been very valuable.
For iPads able to run iOS 6+, you can activate "Guided Access" mode. Apps being run in this mode can have disabled hardware buttons and deactivate certain areas on-screen.
Once the global setting is enabled (Settings > General > Accessibility), triple-clicking the home button activates and deactivates the mode. There is a passcode, distinct from the unlock code, to exit "Guided Access."
I became familiar with this as part of an iPad kiosk project, and when my toddler discovered that iPads exist, it has been very valuable.