Which Parental Control App Should I Install on My Child’s Phone?

Why Parental Controls Matter More Than Ever

You're not alone if you're feeling overwhelmed by the constant tug-of-war between protecting your child and giving them independence. Especially between the ages of 6 and 12, kids can be surprisingly tech-savvy but still far too young to navigate the digital world safely. A smartphone can be both a tool for learning and a gateway to content that’s confusing, distressing, or simply too mature for their age. That’s why choosing the right parental control setup isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.

Start With a Conversation, Not Just an App

Before diving into software and settings, it’s important to create a space for trust. Explain to your child that parental controls are like training wheels—there not to limit them, but to gradually help them learn how to ride safely on their own. Whether it’s about screen time, the types of content they can view, or who they’re allowed to message, make it a two-way discussion.

If you're unsure how to approach topics like digital safety or privacy, this guide on talking to a 10-year-old about online privacy can be a valuable starting point.

Built-in Tools Are Your First Line of Defense

Whether your child has an iPhone or an Android device, both operating systems come with built-in parental controls that are more powerful than many parents realize. For iOS users, Apple’s Screen Time tool allows you to:

• Set daily time limits on specific apps
• Block access to explicit content
• Schedule "Downtime" during homework or bedtime
• Monitor app usage and web activity

Similarly, Google Family Link for Android lets you manage your child’s apps, see screen time reports, and set device bedtime schedules. Both systems allow for content filtering, which is vital to prevent exposure to inappropriate material.

If you’re wondering whether your child is stumbling upon things they shouldn’t be, take a look at this article: How to Tell If Your Child Is Being Exposed to Age-Inappropriate Content.

Third-Party Parental Control Apps: What to Look For

Sometimes, the built-in tools just aren’t enough—especially if your child is especially curious or approaching middle school. This is when third-party apps come into play. But with so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which will actually serve your child’s needs without becoming a source of conflict.

Here are some features to prioritize when choosing a parental control app:

• Web filtering: Ensures your child doesn’t land on unsafe websites
• App management: Lets you approve or block apps individually
• Location tracking: Helpful if your child has more independence outside the home
• Real-time alerts: For concerning activity like accessing blocked websites

Apps like Qustodio, Bark, and Norton Family are popular because they offer customizable settings and clear reports. However, remember that even the best tool works best when paired with ongoing conversations. Technology can enforce boundaries, but it can’t replace guidance.

Balancing Protection with Growth and Autonomy

Parental controls shouldn’t feel like a wall between you and your child—they should feel like a net, quietly supporting them. And just as every child is different, your family’s needs will evolve over time. What works for a 7-year-old might frustrate a 12-year-old who’s ready for more digital independence. That’s why flexibility matters.

In fact, sometimes the biggest digital battles don’t happen over harmful content but over what’s appropriate for their age. We talk more about these nuances in our article: Is It Okay to Let a 7-Year-Old Listen to Content Alone?

Choosing Age-Appropriate, Screen-Free Content

While digital controls help restrict harmful content, it’s just as important to provide your child with enriching, safe alternatives. Educational audiobooks and audio stories are a powerful way to reduce screen addiction and boost imagination. In fact, many parents are surprised to find that kids engage more deeply with stories when the visuals are left to their imagination. If you're curious about the benefits, this article breaks down why audio can be a game-changer.

One app to consider is LISN Kids, which offers a wide selection of original audiobooks and audio series specifically designed for children ages 3–12. It’s a safe, ad-free environment ideal for quiet time, car rides, or even winding down before bed. LISN Kids is available for iOS and Android.

Tools Are Only Part of the Solution

In the end, setting up parental controls is not about surveillance—it’s about scaffolding. It’s about teaching your child how to engage with technology responsibly. The controls will need to adapt, and your child will make mistakes. That’s part of growing up. What matters most is that they know they can come to you—for help, for clarification, or just to talk about something they saw that made them uncomfortable.

With the right mix of control, communication, and compassion, you can help your child develop not just digital literacy, but digital wisdom.