How to set up parental controls on Android

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Setting up parental controls on Android devices allows parents to monitor and restrict their children's access to apps, content, and features. This can be accomplished through built-in settings or third-party applications, ensuring a safer digital environment for kids.

Beginner/Intermediate⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before setting up parental controls on your Android device, ensure you meet the following requirements.
  • •An Android device running Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher.
  • •Access to the Google Play Store to download necessary apps.
  • •A Google account to set up Family Link or other parental control apps.
  • •Parental permissions to modify device settings.

Method 1: Using Google Family Link

Google Family Link is a robust tool for managing parental controls on Android devices. This method is ideal for parents who want to monitor their children's app usage and set screen time limits.
  • •Step 1: Download the Google Family Link app from the Google Play Store on your device.
  • •Step 2: Open the app and sign in with your Google account. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up Family Link.
  • •Step 3: On your child's device, download the Family Link for children & teens app and sign in with the same Google account.
  • •Step 4: Configure the settings to restrict app downloads, set screen time limits, and monitor activity.
  • •Step 5: To verify, check the Family Link app on your device for activity reports and usage statistics.
  • •Step 6: If it doesn't work, ensure both devices are connected to the internet and that the correct Google accounts are linked.

For Android 11 and Higher

Android 11 introduced additional features for parental controls.
  • •Go to Settings > Digital Wellbeing & parental controls > Parental controls.
  • •Follow the prompts to set up Family Link if not already done.

For Android 10 and Lower

Older versions may have limited features.
  • •Access Settings > Users & accounts > Add user or profile > Restricted profile.
  • •Follow the prompts to create a restricted profile for your child.

Method 2: Using Third-Party Parental Control Apps

Third-party apps can offer more features and flexibility compared to built-in options. This method is suitable for parents looking for advanced monitoring capabilities.
  • •Step 1: Research and choose a reputable parental control app such as Norton Family, Qustodio, or Net Nanny.
  • •Step 2: Download the chosen app from the Google Play Store.
  • •Step 3: Open the app and create an account, following the setup wizard to configure parental controls.
  • •Step 4: Customize settings for app blocking, web filtering, and screen time management.
  • •Step 5: To verify, check the app's dashboard for activity reports and alerts.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while setting up parental controls, consider the following solutions.
  • •Error: 'Unable to connect to the server' - Solution: Check your internet connection and try again.
  • •Issue: 'App not found' - Fix: Ensure you are searching in the correct app store and that your device is compatible.
  • •Problem: 'Settings not saving' - Workaround: Restart your device and try saving the settings again.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your parental control experience with these tips.
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Use 'Ctrl + Shift + Esc' to quickly access Task Manager and close apps if needed.
  • •Command line: Use ADB commands for advanced users to manage apps and settings remotely.
  • •Hidden feature: Explore the 'Digital Wellbeing' settings for additional tools like Wind Down and Focus Mode.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Utilizing a combination of built-in Android features and trusted third-party apps provides the best protection and monitoring capabilities for children.