Parental control apps act as virtual nannies, preventing children from accessing harmful content and providing reports on their online activities. These apps help ensure a safe digital environment while giving parents insight into their child’s online behavior.
What Features Should You Look For?
Content Filtering
This feature blocks access to websites categorized as dangerous, harmful, or inappropriate for children.
Time Limiting
Parents can set daily screen time limits or specify which hours their child is allowed online.
App Blocking
Prevents children from downloading inappropriate apps. Some apps require parental approval before installation.
Location Tracking
Helps parents know their child’s whereabouts. Many apps also include an emergency or SOS button that allows children to send their location in case of trouble.
Remote Locking
Allows parents to lock their child’s phone remotely, even when they are not physically present.
Social Media & Text Monitoring
Social media has become an integral part of children’s lives for communication, schoolwork, and entertainment. Monitoring ensures they engage safely and responsibly.
Best Free Parental Control Apps
Apple Screen Time (Built-in Feature)
- Allows parents to set daily time limits for apps.
- Provides weekly activity reports.
- Restricts access to inappropriate content.
- Does not offer real-time GPS tracking.
Life360 (Basic Plan)
- Offers free GPS location tracking.
- Shows battery life status.
- Tracks travel history and reports stops.
- Lacks app-blocking and web-filtering features.
Google Family Link
- Enables screen time control and app approvals.
- Provides activity reports.
- Allows web filtering for Chrome.
- GPS tracking is available, but accuracy varies.
Best Paid Parental Control Apps
JuniorProtect
- Control data usage and screen time with ease.
- Create a safer digital environment for your kids.
- Customize protection to suit your family’s needs.
- Ensure your child’s safety, even when you’re not around.
Exclusive add-on service for StarHub customers.
Cyber Guardian
- Easily block unwanted content with preset or customizable filters.
- Set time limits for internet usage.
- Monitor activity reports and manage online access anytime, anywhere.
- No need to worry about app deletion—our network-based solution works without installation.
Exclusive add-on service for M1 customers.
Qustodio
- Comprehensive screen time management and reporting.
- GPS tracking with geofencing alerts.
- App and website blocking.
- Social media and YouTube monitoring.
Net Nanny
- Advanced content filtering for safe browsing.
- App blocking and screen time management.
- Real-time location tracking.
- Sends alerts for inappropriate searches.
Bark
- Monitors text messages, emails, and social media.
- Sends alerts for cyberbullying, explicit content, and self-harm discussions.
- Screen time and app management.
- Does not offer GPS tracking.
- Parental Perspectives and Considerations
Symantec Norton Family Premier
- Comprehensive parental controls, including content supervision, time limits, web and social media monitoring, text and call supervision, and location tracking.
- Helps protect children from sharing personal information online, such as their phone number or school details.
Kaspersky Safe Kids
- A trusted leader in parental control software.
- Features include content filtering, screen time limits, location tracking, app blocking, social media monitoring, call and text monitoring, and remote locking.
- Get real-time alerts if your child attempts to access inappropriate content.
Despite the availability of these tools, many parents argue that no app is foolproof. Some children find ways to bypass restrictions, while others may develop excessive reliance on screens even with controls. Some parents prefer to limit device usage rather than depend on software solutions. Others use a combination of tracking apps like Life360 and manual restrictions, such as deleting browsers or locking app stores.
Parental control apps provide useful tools to help manage children’s screen time and ensure their safety. However, they should not replace active parental involvement. The most effective approach combines technology with clear communication and guidance. While apps like Qustodio and Net Nanny offer comprehensive paid solutions, free alternatives like Apple Screen Time and Google Family Link can still provide essential oversight for concerned parents.
