The internet is a great place to learn and play, but children also need protection from harmful content and too much screen time. You can set up useful controls at home in less than an hour.
Start with a conversation
No filter is perfect. Talk to your children about what they do online, which sites are okay and what to do if something upsets them. Keep devices in shared family spaces for younger children.
Device controls
- Android: use Google Family Link to approve apps, set daily limits and see screen time.
- iPhone and iPad: use Screen Time in Settings to limit apps and block adult content.
- Windows: use Microsoft Family Safety for web filtering and time limits.
YouTube and apps
- Install YouTube Kids for young children.
- Turn on Restricted Mode in YouTube for older children.
- Enable SafeSearch in Google.
- Check age ratings before installing games.
Router-level filtering
Many routers let you block websites or schedule internet access for specific devices, for example turning off the child’s tablet at 10 PM. Look for Parental Control or Access Control in your router settings.
You can also use a family-safe DNS service, which blocks adult and dangerous sites for every device on your network. Our guide to DNS explains how.
Screen time rules that work
- No devices at the dinner table.
- Phones charge outside the bedroom at night.
- Homework first, games later.
- Set the rules together, and follow them yourself too.
Review regularly
Children grow and their needs change. Review the settings every few months and adjust them together.
Need help with router settings? SF Networking support is happy to guide you.