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Android and Google offer built-in parental controls through Family Link, which lets you manage what apps your child can access, set screen time limits, and review their activity. This guide covers the key steps to set up and manage parental controls on Android.
Setting up Google Family Link
Family Link is Google's parental control service. It works by linking a child's Google account to a parent's account, giving the parent control over the child's device:
- Install the "Google Family Link" app on your (the parent's) phone from Google Play
- Create a Google account for your child if they do not already have one: Family Link can set up an account for children under 13
- Open Family Link and follow the setup wizard to link your child's account
- On your child's Android: sign in with their Google account; it will be managed by Family Link automatically
Controlling apps and content
Once Family Link is set up, you can manage what your child can download and access:
- In Family Link, tap your child's name > Controls > Content restrictions > Google Play
- Set an age rating for apps, games, films, and TV: apps above the rating require your approval
- Approve or reject individual app download requests remotely
- Block specific apps already installed: Activity > Installed apps > tap an app > Block app
- Set Chrome content filters: Controls > Content restrictions > Google Chrome
Screen time limits
Manage how long and when your child can use their phone:
- In Family Link: Controls > Screen time > Set limits
- Daily limit: set a maximum number of hours of screen time per day
- Bedtime: lock the device at a set time each night
- To lock the device manually: Family Link > your child's name > tap the lock icon
- Exceptions: calls and emergency services always work even when the device is locked
Location sharing
Family Link lets you see your child's location when they carry their phone:
- Location sharing is automatically enabled when you set up Family Link
- View location in the Family Link app: tap your child's name > Location
- Location requires the device to have internet access and Location turned on
- Discuss location sharing openly with your child: transparency builds trust
- As children get older, discuss gradually reducing controls as they demonstrate responsible use
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