Family Link is Google's free parental controls for Android. If your child uses an Android phone or tablet, this is all you need. No paid apps required.
Setting Up Family Link
Steps last_verified 2026-08-20. Family Link is built into Android and free. It is Google's official parental-control tool, not a third-party monitoring app.
Google Family Link is the Android equivalent of Apple's Screen Time. You can manage apps, set screen time limits, see location, and control what your child can access. This is Google's official solution and does not require third-party monitoring apps.
Step 1: Create a Google Account for Your Child
Children under 13 need a supervised Google Account managed through Family Link:
- Download the Google Family Link app on your phone (iOS or Android)
- Open the app and sign in with your Google Account
- Tap Create child account
- Enter your child's name and real birth date
- Create their email address and password
- Confirm parental consent
Step 2: Set Up Your Child's Device
On your child's Android device:
- Factory reset the device (recommended for a clean start)
- During setup, sign in with your child's new Google Account
- When prompted, confirm your parental account to link supervision
- Follow prompts to enable Family Link supervision
If the device is already set up, go to Settings > Google > Parental controls and follow the prompts.
Continue reading
Continue for app management, screen-time limits, website access, and location steps.
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