Managing kids’ screen time can be tough for parents. iPhones have various controls that help families set boundaries and keep children safe online. These tools range from built-in features to specialized apps designed to monitor usage, filter content, and limit access.
The right parental controls for iPhone can give parents peace of mind while teaching children healthy digital habits. Parents can choose from Apple’s own Screen Time feature or third-party apps like OurPact that offer more detailed monitoring options. Finding the best solution depends on your family’s needs and your child’s age.
1. Apple Screen Time
Apple Screen Time is built into iOS devices, making it a free and convenient option for parents. This feature helps manage children’s device usage and set appropriate limits.
With Screen Time, parents can control which apps their kids can use and when. You can block specific apps during homework or bedtime hours, ensuring kids focus when needed.
Screen Time lets parents set daily time limits for device use. When time runs out, kids can request more time, which parents can approve or deny from their own device.
The Content & Privacy Restrictions feature is particularly useful. Parents can limit adult content in web searches, block explicit music, and control in-app purchases.
Some users find Screen Time a bit glitchy at times. On Reddit, one user mentioned that while the internal controls are pretty good, they sometimes have reliability issues.
Setting up Screen Time is simple. Parents can either manage it directly on their child’s device or use Family Sharing to control it remotely from their own iPhone or iPad.
The web filtering tool helps keep kids safe online. Parents can restrict adult websites or only allow access to specific sites they approve.
Screen Time also provides helpful usage reports. These weekly summaries show which apps are used most often and when, helping parents spot potential issues.
For younger children, the App Limits feature is particularly helpful. Parents can set time limits for specific app categories, like games or social networking.
Downtime is another valuable tool. This feature lets parents schedule periods when only phone calls and approved apps are available, perfect for bedtime or school hours.
While other parental control apps are available in the App Store, such as Screen Time Parental Control, Apple’s built-in option provides most features families need without extra cost.
According to reviews, Apple Screen Time is considered the best option for iOS households, particularly those already using Apple devices throughout the family.
2. Qustodio
Qustodio is a powerful parental control option for iPhone users who want comprehensive monitoring tools. This app has earned the PC Mag’s Editors’ Choice award for best family parental control app, highlighting its effectiveness.
Parents can easily track screen time across all their child’s devices with Qustodio. The app doesn’t just work on iPhones – it functions seamlessly across platforms, so families with mixed devices can use one solution.
One of Qustodio’s strengths is its user-friendly interface. Both the parent and child apps are designed to be simple to navigate, making it accessible even for less tech-savvy families.
The app offers more than 20 advanced features to help parents monitor and manage their children’s online activities. These tools go beyond basic screen time limits, giving parents more control options.
With Qustodio, parents can see what their kids are doing online and set appropriate boundaries. The app provides detailed monitoring of activity wherever children go, creating peace of mind for concerned parents.
Safety is a primary focus of this parental control solution. According to reviews, Qustodio stands out as one of the best options for keeping kids safe both online and offline in 2025.
The app offers a free trial period so families can test its features before committing. This allows parents to ensure the controls work well with their specific needs and their children’s devices.
For iPhone users specifically, Qustodio provides robust controls that complement and extend beyond Apple’s built-in Screen Time features. Parents get more detailed reports and filtering options than with the default iPhone tools.
Qustodio helps parents balance protecting their children while still respecting their growing independence. The app can be adjusted as children mature, allowing for age-appropriate monitoring.
While not the cheapest option available, many parents find the comprehensive protection worth the investment. The parental control app provides features that help justify its price point for families serious about digital safety.
3. OurPact
OurPact is a top-rated parental control app for iPhone users that offers comprehensive monitoring features. It stands out from competitors by providing unique capabilities for iOS devices that many other parental control solutions can’t match.
The app gives parents the ability to block apps on their children’s devices and set schedule-based rules. This means you can automatically disable games during homework time or social media apps at bedtime.
One of OurPact’s key strengths is its screen time management functionality. Parents can set daily allowances and easily adjust them as needed for different days or situations.
The built-in family locator helps keep track of where your children are. This feature provides peace of mind for parents of teens and younger children alike.
OurPact also includes monitoring tools to view online activity and device usage. Parents can see which apps their kids are using and for how long, helping to identify potential problems.
For iPhone specifically, OurPact offers unmatched control that many other parental apps can’t provide due to iOS restrictions. This makes it particularly valuable for families with Apple devices.
According to reviews, OurPact does have some limitations. It lacks a proper web-filtering system, which means parents may need additional tools to control web browsing. The app also doesn’t provide location history, only current location.
The interface is user-friendly, making it easy for parents who aren’t tech-savvy to set up and manage controls. This accessibility is a major plus for busy families.
OurPact works on both iPhones and iPads, providing consistent protection across Apple devices. This unified approach simplifies management for parents with multiple children using different devices.
4. FamilyTime Premium
FamilyTime Premium is an all-in-one parental control app designed specifically for managing your child’s digital activities. It helps parents set healthy boundaries for screen time while keeping kids safe online.
The app offers a wide range of features for iPhone users. Parents can easily monitor texts, block specific apps, and filter websites that might be inappropriate for their children. This helps create a safer online environment.
Location tracking is another useful feature of FamilyTime. Parents can check where their children are at any time, which adds an extra layer of safety beyond just digital protection.
One standout aspect of FamilyTime Premium is its 30-day reporting history. This gives parents a longer view of their child’s digital habits, making it easier to spot concerning patterns.
The iPhone version includes special tools designed specifically for iOS devices. These controls help maintain what the company calls “digital balance” – a healthy relationship with technology.
FamilyTime Premium also includes uninstall protection. This prevents tech-savvy kids from simply removing the app to avoid parental oversight.
The interface is user-friendly, which is important for parents who might not be especially tech-savvy. Setting up controls and monitoring activities doesn’t require advanced technical knowledge.
Another benefit is free access to new features as they’re released. The company regularly updates the app to address new digital challenges and platforms that children might access.
Parents who’ve used FamilyTime often mention how it helps them direct their child’s online activities. From limiting screen time to blocking problematic apps, it gives parents more control over their child’s digital experience.
The FamilyTime app is available on the App Store for iPhone users. It offers subscription plans to fit different family needs and budgets.
5. Bark
Bark offers a comprehensive approach to monitoring children’s digital activities on iPhones. The app scans text messages, social media platforms, emails, and web browsers to help parents stay informed about potential issues.
Parents appreciate Bark’s ability to alert them about cyberbullying, adult content, and interactions with possible sexual predators. The app monitors over 30 apps and platforms, giving it wide coverage of where kids spend their online time.
The platform doesn’t just monitor content. Bark also lets parents block websites, manage screen time limits, and track location. This makes it a well-rounded solution for families concerned about online safety.
Location tracking is particularly useful for many parents. The Bark Kids app enables real-time location tracking on a map, even showing if children are walking, biking, or in a vehicle.
Some users find that combining Bark with built-in iOS parental controls creates the best protection system. According to parent feedback on Reddit, “The weaknesses of Bark are iOS parental controls’ strong points and vice versa.”
Bark’s monitoring approach differs from some competitors by focusing on alerting parents to problems rather than blocking everything. This philosophy helps maintain trust between parents and children while still providing safety.
The app requires installation on both the parent’s and child’s devices. Parents receive alerts when concerning content is detected, allowing them to address issues promptly.
While Bark works on iPhones, parents should note that iOS restrictions limit some monitoring capabilities compared to Android devices. Despite these limitations, many families find it effective for iPhone supervision.
Pricing involves a subscription model, which some parents consider worthwhile for the peace of mind the service provides. The cost reflects the extensive monitoring capabilities and regular updates to detect new online threats.
6. Norton Family
Norton Family is a strong option for parents looking to protect their kids on iPhones. This parental control software helps you monitor your child’s online activities while teaching them healthy digital habits.
The app offers tools to filter unwanted content and set screen time limits. Parents can easily keep track of what websites their children visit and what they search for online.
Setting up Norton Family on an iPhone is simple. After installation, parents can access controls through an easy-to-use web portal. The app needs to have Background App Refresh enabled to work properly on iOS devices.
One helpful feature is the ability to get insights about your child’s online behavior. These reports can help start conversations about internet safety with your kids.
Norton Family helps parents find a good balance between protection and privacy. It focuses on teaching kids safe online habits rather than just blocking everything.
The app works well with other Norton security products. If you already use Norton security software, adding Norton Family parental controls might make sense for your household.
Parents appreciate how Norton Family provides monitoring without being too intrusive. Kids can still learn to navigate the online world while parents keep an eye on potential dangers.
The Norton Family app on iPhone helps foster healthy online and offline balance. This is especially important as kids spend more time on devices.
For iPhone users specifically, Norton Family complements Apple’s built-in screen time features. It adds extra layers of protection that the default iPhone controls might not offer.
Parents can also use Norton Family to help protect multiple devices. This makes it a good choice for families with several iPhones or a mix of different devices.
7. Net Nanny
Net Nanny is one of the most established parental control and web filtering software options available for iPhone users. It gives parents complete visibility over their child’s online activities in real-time.
The app allows you to track what your kids are doing online and which apps they’re using. You can see exactly how much screen time they’re spending on different activities.
Parents appreciate Net Nanny’s ability to block inappropriate content before kids see it. The filtering system is smart enough to understand context rather than just blocking based on keywords.
The Net Nanny Parental Control app works alongside a child companion app that must be installed on your kid’s iPhone. This two-part system creates a secure monitoring environment.
Setting time limits is simple with Net Nanny. You can schedule when devices can be used and when they should be off-limits, like during homework time or after bedtime.
The app sends alerts when your child tries to access blocked content. This feature helps start conversations about online safety rather than just silently restricting access.
Net Nanny offers detailed reports on browsing history and app usage. These insights help parents understand their child’s digital habits and interests.
One standout feature is Net Nanny’s social media monitoring. It tracks activity across popular platforms where kids spend much of their online time.
The user interface is clean and easy to navigate. Even parents who aren’t tech-savvy can quickly learn how to use all the important features.
While the subscription cost is higher than some competitors, many parents feel the comprehensive features justify the price. The peace of mind from knowing exactly what your child is exposed to online is valuable.
Net Nanny regularly updates its filtering technology to keep up with new websites and online trends. This ensures continued protection as the internet evolves.
8. Mobicip
Mobicip is a powerful parental control app for iPhones that helps parents manage their children’s screen time and online activities. The app offers several features that make it stand out from other parental control options.
With Mobicip, parents can set daily screen time limits for their children. This helps kids develop healthy digital habits without constantly arguing about device usage. Parents can also block specific apps they find inappropriate for their children.
The filtering system is one of Mobicip’s strongest features. It protects children from cyberbullying and other forms of online abuse by blocking inappropriate content. This works across websites and social media conversations.
Parents particularly appreciate Mobicip’s tracking capabilities. The app keeps track of everything the child does on their device, including time spent in different apps. It even alerts parents when settings are changed, preventing tech-savvy kids from bypassing restrictions.
Installing Mobicip on an iPhone is straightforward. After downloading from the App Store, parents can create accounts for each family member and customize settings based on age and maturity level.
Mobicip works well with the latest iOS versions. The company regularly updates the app to ensure compatibility with iOS 17.5 and other recent updates, maintaining security and effectiveness.
Many parents find Mobicip especially helpful for blocking specific websites that might slip through Apple’s built-in Screen Time controls. The app offers more granular control over what content children can access.
For families with multiple devices, Mobicip provides a central dashboard where parents can manage all settings. This saves time and ensures consistent rules across all devices a child might use.
While Apple’s built-in Screen Time has improved, many parents prefer Mobicip for its more comprehensive features and user-friendly interface. The app offers a balance between protection and respecting older children’s growing independence.
9. Google Family Link for Kids
Google Family Link is a free app that helps parents monitor and manage their children’s iPhone usage. It lets you set screen time limits for your child’s device to help them find a healthy balance with technology.
Setting up Family Link on an iPhone is straightforward. First, you need to download the app from the App Store. Then you create a parent account followed by a child account, and send an invitation to connect them.
The app gives parents useful controls for their child’s online activities. You can approve or block apps your child wants to download from the App Store. You can also track your child’s location when they have their iPhone with them.
Content filtering is another key feature of Family Link. Parents can restrict certain types of content that might be inappropriate for children. This helps create a safer online environment for kids using iPhones.
When it comes to Google services, Family Link gives parents oversight of their child’s activity. You can manage settings for services like YouTube, Chrome, and Google Search to ensure age-appropriate content.
Family Link works well with Apple’s ecosystem. If your child already has a Google account, you can add Family Link supervision to help set up parental controls on their iPhone.
The app also provides activity reports that show how much time your child spends on different apps. This gives parents insights into their child’s digital habits and can spark healthy conversations about screen time.
For families using both Android and iOS devices, Family Link offers a consistent way to manage children’s device usage across platforms. Parents can control their child’s account from their own iPhone or Android device.
When your child tries to sign in on their iPhone, Family Link helps them set up with the appropriate parental controls already in place. This makes the setup process smoother for both parents and children.
10. Boomerang
Boomerang is a parental control app that works on iPhones and helps parents manage their kids’ screen time. It stands out by focusing on starting conversations about healthy device use rather than just blocking content.
The app lets parents block specific apps, set daily time limits, and track web browsing. Many parents like that they can allow educational apps to work even when other screen time is limited.
One nice feature is the ability to monitor what videos kids watch. This helps parents stay in the loop about the content their children consume online.
Boomerang is affordable compared to other options, making it accessible for families on a budget. Its simple interface works well for parents who aren’t tech experts.
Parents can install the Boomerang Parent Mode app on their own devices to manage settings remotely. This means they don’t need to physically hold their child’s phone to make changes.
The app offers location tracking features that show where children are throughout the day. Parents can set up alerts when kids arrive at or leave certain places like school or home.
According to reviews, Boomerang is especially strong at setting screen-time limits and blocking websites. This helps families create healthier digital habits without constant arguments.
While not as feature-rich as some premium options, Boomerang covers the basics that most families need. It’s ranked among the top parental control software options by PCMag.
The app works through a parent-child setup, where both devices connect to manage permissions. This system creates more transparency than hidden monitoring tools.
How Parental Controls Work
On iPhones, parental controls work through built-in features called Screen Time. Parents can enable restrictions to block specific features and applications their children shouldn’t access.
The system uses several key mechanisms:
- Content filtering: Blocks inappropriate websites and content based on ratings
- App limits: Controls which apps can be installed and used
- Time restrictions: Sets daily allowances for device use or specific apps
- Purchase controls: Prevents unauthorized buying of apps or in-app purchases
Parents can customize these settings through the device settings. They can create a special passcode that prevents children from changing the restrictions.
Apple’s parental controls can sync across all family devices through Family Sharing, making it easier to maintain consistent rules throughout the household.
Features to Look for in Parental Controls
When choosing parental controls for your iPhone, certain key features can make all the difference in protecting your child while still giving them appropriate freedom. Good parental control options should be both effective and easy to use.
Screen Time Management
Managing how long your child spends on their iPhone is often a top priority for parents. Apple’s Screen Time offers built-in tools that let you set daily time limits for app categories or specific apps.
The best screen time management features include:
- Schedulable downtime – Set periods when only approved apps work
- App time limits – Restrict usage to certain amounts per day
- Bedtime settings – Automatically disable apps at night
- Reward systems – Some apps allow extra time as rewards for good behavior
Parents should look for controls that send notifications when time limits are reached. This creates teaching moments rather than just cutting access without warning.
Good screen time tools also show usage reports so you can see trends in your child’s digital habits. This helps you make better decisions about appropriate limits.
App Blocking and Filtering
Keeping kids away from inappropriate content is crucial. Strong parental controls should filter harmful websites and block problematic apps.
Effective filtering features should:
- Block age-inappropriate content and apps
- Filter websites by category (gambling, violence, etc.)
- Filter social media for abusive language or inappropriate images
- Allow customizable blacklists and whitelists
- Provide alerts when blocked content is attempted
The best controls adapt to different age groups. What works for an 8-year-old won’t be right for a teenager. Look for solutions that grow with your child.
Many parents appreciate controls that explain why content is blocked rather than just showing an error message. This helps kids understand boundaries rather than just feeling restricted.
Location Tracking
Knowing where your children are provides peace of mind. Modern parental controls often include location features that help parents stay informed without constant check-in calls.
Useful location tracking features include:
- Real-time GPS location – See where your child is now
- Location history – Review where they’ve been
- Geofencing – Get alerts when kids enter or leave specific areas like school or home
- Check-in buttons – Let kids easily signal they’ve arrived safely
- Remote tracking – Monitor location from anywhere
Privacy matters too. The best trackers balance safety with appropriate privacy for older children. Some apps allow kids to temporarily pause tracking in safe situations, building trust while maintaining safety.
Battery impact is another consideration. Look for tracking that doesn’t drain your child’s phone quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Parents face many questions when setting up iPhone controls for their kids. Here are answers to some common questions about parental control options.
How can I set up Apple’s built-in parental controls on my child’s iPhone?
Setting up Screen Time on your child’s device is straightforward. First, go to Settings and tap Screen Time. Then select “This is My Child’s iPhone.”
You’ll need to create a passcode that your child doesn’t know. This lets you change settings later.
Once set up, you can limit app usage, filter content, and set communication restrictions. You can also set schedules for downtime when only approved apps work.
What are the most effective free parental control apps for iPhones?
Apple’s built-in Screen Time is the most effective free option for iPhones. It offers content restrictions, app limits, and downtime scheduling without extra costs.
Google Family Link is another good free option that works with iPhones. It helps parents monitor screen time and approve app downloads.
OurPact offers a limited free version that includes basic scheduling and blocking features. The free tier gives parents a taste of what premium services offer.
Which third-party app offers the best parental controls for teenagers?
Qustodio stands out for teen monitoring with its balanced approach. It provides detailed activity reports without feeling too invasive for teenagers who need some privacy.
Bark is especially good for monitoring and restricting teen social media use. It scans messages for concerning content while respecting privacy.
FamilyTime Premium offers strong location tracking features that parents of teens appreciate. Its geofencing alerts parents when teens arrive at or leave specific locations.
What are the key differences between popular parental control apps like Bark and Aura?
Bark focuses on content monitoring across social media platforms. It uses AI to detect potential issues like cyberbullying or depression without showing all messages to parents.
Aura (formerly Boomerang) emphasizes web filtering and screen time management. It offers stronger browsing controls but less social media monitoring than Bark.
Bark sends alerts only when it detects potential problems. Aura provides more regular usage reports and summaries of activity.
Is there an alternative parental control app that exceeds the features of Google’s Family Link?
Qustodio offers more comprehensive monitoring than Family Link. It provides detailed reports on all activities and allows parents to monitor multiple platforms.
OurPact gives parents more scheduling flexibility than Family Link. Its screen time management lets you create complex schedules for different days and activities.
FamilyTime Premium offers stronger location features than Family Link. Its driver safety tools are especially helpful for families with teen drivers.
Are there any parental control apps that work well for both iPhone and Android devices?
Qustodio works equally well on both platforms. It maintains consistent features across iOS and Android, making it ideal for families with different devices.
Bark offers cross-platform monitoring that works on iPhones and Android devices. This makes it simple to protect all kids in the family.
OurPact provides similar experiences on both operating systems. Its interface and controls remain nearly identical regardless of which phone your child uses.
