Parental control is a feature that allows you to restrict or limit what content and features your child can access on their smartphone or tablet. Depending on your device and operating system, you can use different methods to set up parental control. Here are some steps to help you with both Android and iOS devices.
Android
Android devices have built-in parental control features in the Google Play Store app. You can also download third-party apps for more options. To set up parental control in the Play Store app, follow these steps:
- Open the Google Play app and tap the profile icon or the menu icon in the top right corner.
- Tap Settings > Family > Parental controls.
- Turn on Parental controls by flipping the toggle or creating a pin.
- Select the type of content you want to filter, such as apps, games, movies, TV, books, or music.
- Choose the maturity level or rating you want to allow for each content type.
- You can also prevent your child from making purchases or downloads by tapping Settings > Family > Purchase approval and choosing a setting.
For more information, see How to set up parental controls on Google Play.
iOS
iOS devices have built-in parental control features in the Screen Time app. You can also use Family Sharing to enable Ask to Buy, which requires your approval for purchases or free downloads. To set up parental control in the Screen Time app, follow these steps:
- Go to Settings and tap Screen Time.
- Tap Turn on Screen Time, then tap This is My Child’s [Device].
- Create a passcode that only you know and enter your Apple ID and password.
- Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions and turn it on.
- Select the type of content and features you want to restrict, such as iTunes & App Store purchases, explicit content, web content, Siri web search, Game Center, privacy settings, and other settings.
- You can also set up Downtime and App Limits to manage your child’s screen time.
For more information, see Use parental controls on your child’s iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.
To enable Ask to Buy for a child in your Family Sharing group, follow these steps:
- Go to Settings > [your name] > Family Sharing.
- Tap the child you want to set up Ask to Buy for.
- Tap Ask to Buy and follow the onscreen instructions.
For more information, see Approve what kids buy with Ask to Buy.
Some third-party apps for parental control on Android are:
- Qustodio. This app lets you monitor and filter your child’s web and app activity, set screen time limits, track their location, view their YouTube history, and more. It also has a panic button feature for emergencies. You can try it for free for up to one device, or upgrade to a premium plan for more devices and features. See Qustodio’s website for more details.
- Bark. This app is designed for older children who need more privacy and trust. It monitors your child’s social media accounts, texts, emails, and web browsing for signs of cyberbullying, sexting, depression, suicidal thoughts, and other potential issues. It alerts you when it detects something concerning and provides expert advice on how to handle it. You can get a free trial for 7 days, or subscribe to a monthly or annual plan. See Bark’s website for more details.
- FamiSafe. This app helps you manage your child’s screen time, block inappropriate apps and websites, track their location and driving habits, detect suspicious photos and texts, and more. It also has a smart schedule feature that lets you set different rules for different times and locations. You can get a free trial for 3 days, or choose from three subscription plans. See FamiSafe’s website for more details.
These are just some examples of the many parental control apps available for Android. You can also check out other apps such as Mobicip, Norton Family, Amazon Parent Dashboard, and more. You can find them on the Google Play Store or on their respective websites.
