By Femi Akerele

In today’s digital age, children are growing up surrounded by smartphones, tablets, and other internet-enabled devices.

While these technologies offer numerous benefits, they also present challenges for parents who want to ensure their children’s safe and age-appropriate online experience.

This is where parental control apps come into play, serving as digital gatekeepers to guide your child’s online journey because the online world is vast, and not all content is suitable for young eyes.

Parental control apps address concerns related to inappropriate content, screen time management, and online interactions. By leveraging these apps, parents can strike a balance, allowing their children to explore the digital landscape while maintaining a protective shield.

These apps have features and functions listed but not limited to the below:

Content Filtering: These apps allow parents to block or filter out inappropriate websites, apps, and content based on age appropriateness.

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Screen Time Management: Set limits on the amount of time your child spends on devices. Some apps even allow you to establish specific schedules for device usage.

App Monitoring and Blocking: Keep an eye on the apps your child is using and have the ability to block or restrict access to certain applications.

Social Media Monitoring: Stay informed about your child’s social media activities, including friend requests, messages, and posts.

One of such App is Family Link by Google, (Can be found on both iOS and Google Play Store) It is a versatile app designed to empower parents set digital ground rules and keep a watchful eye on their child’s online activities.

Parents can gain insights into their child’s digital life, from the apps they use to the amount of time spent on each one. This level of detail allows for informed decision-making when it comes to setting appropriate limits.

It also allows parents to set daily screen time limits and bedtime restrictions. Family Link puts the power of choice in the hands of parents. They can manage which apps their child can download from the Google Play Store, ensuring age-appropriate content. Additionally, the app provides the ability to remotely lock a child’s device when it’s time to focus on homework, family time, or bedtime. Whether you’re at work or miles away, Family Link provides remote management capabilities, parents can adjust settings, view activity reports, and manage digital ground rules from their own devices, ensuring that their children’s digital experience aligns with your family values.

One of Family Link’s standout features is its user-friendly interface, making it easy for parents, even those less tech-savvy, to navigate and utilize its robust features seamlessly.

In conclusion, because technology is a big part of our lives, parental control apps help parents take care of their kids online. These apps give parents tools to guide and protect their children on the internet.

*Akerele is lead Mobile developer, with Pakam Tech