iPad stuck on Verification failed to connect Apple ID server

My boyfriend is super nervous about resetting his iPhone back to factory settings. So I demonstrated how simple and easy the process was, using my iPad.

So now, the lesson is over. I grabbed my iPad, erased his account, then tried to restore it from a backup. But it keeps being stuck on the

“Verification failed. Cannot connect to Apple ID server.”

I forced restarted my iPad. 3 times. But it won’t log me in! This is not turning out well. My boyfriend is now 1000% convinced it’s an evil thing to reset his iPhone back to factory settings! Yikes

What can I do? I’ll have to cook dinner first. And after, try to call apple support. But if anyone can help me meanwhile….please!

Thank you