Navigating the digital landscape with kids can be challenging. Fortunately, there are many excellent parental control tools available that can help you monitor and manage your children’s digital activities. Here’s our guide to some of the most effective options across different platforms.
Built-in Device Controls
Most modern devices come with built-in parental control features that are free and relatively easy to set up:
Apple Devices (iOS/macOS)
Screen Time offers:
- App usage limits and restrictions
- Content and privacy restrictions
- Downtime scheduling
- Activity reports
- Family sharing features
Learn how to set up Screen Time →
Android Devices
Google Family Link provides:
- App approval and time limits
- Content filters
- Device location tracking
- Remote device locking
- Activity reports
Learn how to set up Google Family Link →
Windows Computers
Microsoft Family Safety includes:
- Screen time limits
- Content filters
- Activity reporting
- Location sharing
- Spending controls for Microsoft Store
Learn how to set up Microsoft Family Safety →
Third-Party Solutions
For more comprehensive features or cross-platform protection, consider these third-party options:
Norton Family
Strengths:
- Web supervision and filtering
- Time supervision
- Video supervision
- Social media monitoring
- Location tracking
Best for: Families with multiple children using different devices
Circle Home Plus
Strengths:
- Whole-home coverage (works with all devices on your network)
- Custom filters by age
- Time limits and pause button
- Usage history
- Rewards system
Best for: Controlling internet access across all home devices
Qustodio
Strengths:
- Works across multiple platforms
- Time limits and scheduling
- Games and app blocking
- Social media monitoring
- Panic button feature for emergencies
Best for: Detailed monitoring and reporting
Router-Level Controls
For network-wide protection:
Mesh Wi-Fi Systems with Parental Controls
Systems like Eero, Google Nest Wifi, and Netgear Orbi offer:
- Content filtering by device
- Internet pause buttons
- Scheduled online/offline times
- Guest networks with different restrictions
Best for: Whole-home coverage with minimal device-level setup
Choosing the Right Tools
When selecting parental control tools, consider:
- Your children’s ages - Different tools are appropriate for different developmental stages
- Types of devices used - Some tools work better on specific platforms
- Your technical comfort level - Some solutions are more user-friendly than others
- Cost considerations - Balance free built-in tools with paid solutions that offer more features
- Privacy balance - Find the right balance between monitoring and respecting your child’s privacy
Remember that no technical solution replaces ongoing conversations about digital citizenship and responsible technology use. The most effective approach combines tools with regular communication about online safety.
Getting Started
For detailed setup instructions for any of these tools, check out our step-by-step guides section.