Parental controls on Android let you manage how your child uses their device—from restricting app downloads to setting screen time limits and blocking mature content. Whether you’re a concerned parent or guardian, setting up these controls can create a healthier digital environment for your child.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to configure Android’s built-in parental controls, use Google Family Link effectively, and avoid common pitfalls. By the end, you’ll have a fully controlled device tailored to your child’s needs.
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Step-by-Step Guide to Set Parental Controls on Android
1. Install Google Family Link
- Go to the Google Play Store.
- Search for Google Family Link and tap Install.
- Open the app and follow prompts to link your account with your child’s.
2. Create a Google Account for Your Child
- Family Link will guide you through creating a child account.
- You can also add supervision to an existing Google account (under age 13 in most countries).
3. Link Devices
- On your device, sign in to Family Link.
- On your child’s device, sign in with their Google account.
- Use the Family Link setup code to connect both devices.
4. Set Daily Screen Time Limits
- Open Family Link > tap your child’s name.
- Go to Screen Time > Set daily limits.
- Choose limits for weekdays and weekends separately.
5. Set a Bedtime Schedule
- In the Screen Time section, tap Bedtime.
- Select hours when the device should be locked (e.g., 9:00 PM to 7:00 AM).
6. Approve or Block App Downloads
- Tap Controls > App activity > Manage apps.
- You can approve or block apps your child requests.
- Enable notifications for app requests for quicker approval.
7. Filter Content in Google Play
- On your child’s device, open Play Store > Profile icon > Settings.
- Go to Family > Parental controls.
- Turn on controls and choose content ratings for apps, games, movies, and TV.
8. Restrict Web Browsing
- In Family Link, go to Controls > Content restrictions.
- Under Google Chrome, set filters: Allow all sites, Try to block mature sites, or Only allow approved sites.
9. Limit YouTube Access
- Install YouTube Kids for younger children.
- In Family Link, you can restrict the regular YouTube app or block it entirely.
10. Track Device Location
- In Family Link, tap your child’s profile.
- Tap Location to see their device’s real-time location.
Pro Tips & Workflow Improvements
- Use Shortcuts: Add a Family Link widget to your home screen for fast access.
- Set Downtime Routines: Automate rules for school days, weekends, and vacations.
- Review Activity Reports: Check your child’s weekly app usage reports to understand their habits.
- Use PIN Protections: Lock settings and restrictions with a secure PIN your child can’t guess.
- Encourage Healthy Habits: Use Family Link to prompt breaks and promote screen-free activities.
Advanced Use Case: Remote App Management
You can remotely install, remove, or block apps using your own device via Family Link. Simply:
- Open Family Link > tap your child’s name.
- Go to Manage apps.
- From there, approve, block, or uninstall apps in real-time.
Troubleshooting & Common Mistakes
- Family Link Not Connecting?
- Ensure both devices are on Wi-Fi and have Bluetooth enabled.
- Make sure you’re using the latest version of the app.
- Time Limits Not Working?
- Check that your child hasn’t changed the device’s time zone.
- Lock time zone in settings to prevent workarounds.
- App Approval Notifications Not Coming Through?
- Turn on push notifications for Family Link in your phone’s notification settings.
- Child Can Still Access Blocked Apps?
- Restart the child’s device to refresh restrictions.
- Make sure apps weren’t pre-installed under a different account.
Conclusion
Parental controls on Android are powerful tools that help you guide and protect your child in the digital world. With the right setup using Google Family Link, you can monitor usage, limit content, and encourage healthy tech habits.
Take time to explore these settings and revisit them regularly as your child grows. Next, you might want to learn how to manage app permissions or block in-app purchases for an even safer experience.
