Google Family Link helped me lock down 99% of my child's phone with ease — here's how
I tested Google Family Link, which enables parents to control their child's phone experience to keep them safe while online.
My son's friends started bringing their smartphones to the park, prompting the pressure to get him one too. I was caught off guard; his Year 6 (5th Grade) meant he was ahead of me in the parental phone game. After much research, I discovered Google Family Link, a tool that allows parents to manage their child's smartphone use. With Family Link, I could restrict app usage, create a whitelist of contacts, and set daily time limits for specific apps.
I also set up 'Family Places' so I received notifications when he entered or left designated locations, like school or the park. The app offered sensitive content warnings for Google Messages, a feature that blurred incoming nude photos. To keep my son's online experience safe, I curated a list of approved websites for his Chrome browser.
Though the process was a bit cumbersome, it ensured he couldn't access inappropriate content. Google Family Link proved to be a valuable ally in creating a safe digital environment for my son, striking a balance between keeping him informed and protecting him from potential online hazards.
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