Many parent control apps are more like Spyware and are often also exactly that, Spyware which spy on your Kids. Or Google Family Link is also a great example which you can’t remove even if you want too (as parent). I already setup a non-child-friendly blocking DNS and set the Age Limit in the Google Play Store and did all the Privacy related stuff, but I’m still thinking how can I make a Android phone more secure for children? The threads I’m talking about are non-child-friendly content, malware, scams, etc.
This is unfortunately why I moved the kids devices to iPhone/iPad.
I was not able to find any native methods of locking things down without involving third parties collecting a ton of data.
In iOS I can set their account as a child account, which then lets me
- limit what applications they can launch
- what websites they can visit
- how much screen time they spend in an app or category of apps
- disable in app purchases
- disable pop up advertisements in app
- require approval from parent account for any app download (including free)
- remove ability to delete apps or change specific settings
all with the native iOS settings
But that locks you into apple’s walled garden, and supports their predatory practises. It’s no better.
Most of the children around here get their first smartphone at the age of 12. At school they get thaught about the risks of the internet and social media but parents are also asked to guide their children on this path.
Before that age most schilderen have access to a tablet and the advice there is to only let it be used in the places where you as a parent are present. Not in their room for example. You don’t have to hover above them but just being near and checking the tablet every few days or weeks will do.
Same with gaming consoles or computers. We have them in our living room so our children only use them in those spaces where other people can be around. That way we can hear their conversations and intervene when their are getting too loud or make sure they use proper language.
No real software limitations apart from adblockers. I did block a whole list of porn sites when they were younger than 12 bit after that age I took away all the restrictions on my router. We had a conversation on the impact and consequences of porn but they will be curious and will find or encounter porn eventually.
So, I would say. Teach and supervice your child and make sure they have the appropriate age for or are to be trusted with their devices.
Thank you. By searching for a perfectly technical solution, parents could lose track of additionally classical parenting like good communications with their children from an early age, friendly interest in their online activities and teaching them that there is sometimes disturbing content online, but you are always there for them to talk without judgement. Anyway I would suggest a few technical solutions like (already mentioned) routers DNS filter and default search engines suitable for children.
