How to Block Apps and Limit Screen Time on Your Child's Android
Google's Family Link is free and lets you manage your child's Android phone from your own. Here is how to set it up, set limits and block apps.
Install Family Link, link your child's account, then set a daily limit, a bedtime and app limits. You can also require approval for new apps.
Set it up in 3 steps
Install Family Link
On your phone install Google Family Link from the app store.
Link your child
Follow the prompts to create or link your child’s Google Account. This connects their Android phone to yours.
Choose limits
Open Family Link, choose your child, then Controls. Set a daily limit, bedtime and app limits.
The controls that matter
Daily limit
Sets how long the device can be used each day.
Bedtime
Locks the device overnight.
Block an app
Choose the app under Controls, then set a time limit or block it.
Approve new apps
Under Google Play settings you can require approval before your child installs new apps.
Where Family Link falls short
- Free and from Google
- Good for younger children
- Works with Chromebooks too
- Built for Android, not iPhone
- A teenager may be able to turn supervision off in some setups, so talk about the rules too
- Settings differ between phone brands
If your family uses both iPhone and Android, a cross-platform app lets you manage every device in one place. See our guide to iPhone Screen Time and our guide to choosing a parental control app.
Frequently asked questions
Is Google Family Link free?
Yes. Family Link is free for Android phones and Chromebooks.
Can I block an app completely?
Yes. In Family Link you can block an app or set a daily time limit for it. You can also require approval before your child installs new apps from Google Play.
Does Family Link work on iPhone?
Family Link is designed for Android and Chromebooks. A child with an iPhone needs Apple's Screen Time or another app.
Parental control tools assist parents and are not a substitute for talking with your child and supervising their device use. KidShield Family is not affiliated with Apple, Google or any other company named here; product names are trademarks of their owners.
Want one app for both iPhone and Android?
KidShield Family gives you screen time limits, app blocking and a location view for each child from a single parent app. Your first 7 days are free with no card, then start a 14-day free trial.
App Store Google PlayParental control tools assist parents and are not a substitute for talking with your child and supervising their device use.