It refers to all the tools, settings, and guidelines that parents use to supervise their children’s digital device usage. It applies to all devices: computers, smartphones, tablets, game consoles, smart TVs, and online services. To get the most out of these devices in an age-appropriate way, you can also enhance the experience with earbuds .

The goal is not merely to block content, but to create a framework suited to the child’s age and maturity. An effective parental control system generally rests on three pillars: limiting access to certain content (violent or sexual), monitoring internet browsing (time limits and permitted sites), and setting rules for the apps used (games, social media, messaging). Often added to this are screen time management, device location tracking, and usage reports.

How do I set up parental controls?

Setting it up isn't just a matter of checking a box in a menu. It involves creating a coherent framework by combining:
- settings built into devices,
- tools offered by search engines,
- family rules established at home.

These parental controls can take many forms: settings built into operating systems (such as Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android), specialized software, carrier options, third-party apps, internet service providers, or devices designed from the ground up for supervised use.

In practice, parents can take a step-by-step approach: enable native parental control settings if available, filter certain categories of online content (to prevent access to inappropriate material), restrict sensitive mobile apps, and set usage time limits appropriate for the child’s age. It is also recommended to block pornographic sites and other sensitive categories to reduce the risk of accidental exposure.

Some internet service providers also offer filtering directly at the router level, thereby enhancing protection for all devices connected in the home.

Tools and solutions to keep children and teens safe online

Parental controls can be set up directly on operating systems such as Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. These options allow you to create child profiles, restrict web browsing, and set rules for mobile apps.

Specialized software such as Qustodio, Norton Family, and Kaspersky Safe Kids offers advanced features: content filtering, screen time management, location tracking, and detailed real-time reports. These solutions centralize control across multiple devices. It is also possible to install a dedicated parental control app.

A different approach involves using a device designed from the outset for supervised use. This is the case with Neow, secure Android smartphones designed for children and teenagers. Our phones for teens come with Google Family Link pre-installed, a Neow Store that replaces Google Play, and an environment that does not include a browser or social media by default. Rather than restricting a standard phone, Neow structures access to online content from the start and allows parents to gradually unlock the device by granting access to mobile apps suited to the child’s age and needs.

Key features of parental control solutions

It applies to Google services such as Chrome, Play, YouTube, and Search, and allows you to block risky websites and filter searches, videos, or purchases on Google Play.

Parents can manage their child’s Google account, change or reset the password, update personal information, or delete the account if necessary.

Family Link lets you set daily time limits on your child’s devices, including school hours and downtime. Screen time management thus becomes an educational tool, not just a restrictive one. To support digital independence, some teens also use a smartwatch for teens, which is handy for keeping track of the time and their notifications without constantly relying on a smartphone.

Tracking your child’s location is possible if the device is turned on, connected to the internet, and has been used recently. Some tools also allow you to monitor online activities in real time.

On a secure Android smartphone like Neow, these features are integrated into a locked parental control system, preventing technical workarounds and replacing access to the Google Play Store with the Neow Store (where children see only the apps they are allowed to use).

Strengths and Limitations of Parental Control Tools

They help reduce exposure to inappropriate content and regulate usage in a more structured way. They give parents the ability to manage internet browsing, restrict certain mobile apps, set usage time limits, and gradually guide their children toward more responsible digital independence.

However, on a standard Android device, these systems have certain limitations. Even with Google Family Link, control relies primarily on the settings configured by parents, and technical workarounds may sometimes be possible (installing APKs, adding alternative browsers, or accessing certain content indirectly). Furthermore, the Google Play Store remains open by default, meaning that children can see apps they don’t have access to, creating frustration and temptation.

It is precisely on these points that Neow stands out.
Neow is based on a modified version of Android, featuring a custom overlay and a locked environment from the start. Family Link is mandatory and cannot be uninstalled by the child. The Google Play Store is replaced by the Neow Store, which contains pre-selected apps. The child cannot see apps they do not have access to. Social media apps are absent by default, the web browser is completely removed (and cannot be installed via APK), and any addition of mobile apps must be done by parents via the parent dashboard.

Control is therefore not limited to restricting a standard phone: the environment is structured to prevent workarounds. Parents can manage total screen time, time per app, time slots, geolocation, downloads, and authorized contacts via Family Link—without being able to read messages, in order to maintain a balance between protection and privacy.

At what age can parental controls be removed?

In general, parental controls can be gradually phased out around ages 15–16, depending on the child’s maturity and the parents’ decision. Neow facilitates this transition by allowing the selective addition of Google services or apps.

The decision is based on demonstrated responsibility: adherence to rules and independent management of web access. Neow supports this stage by remaining a usable smartphone even after partial restrictions are lifted.

Our tips for effective and responsible use

It is important to combine several methods for effective protection: built-in settings, specialized software, and clear family rules. No parental control system can replace open communication. Explaining why certain online content is filtered or why time limits are set turns a restriction into a learning opportunity.

The goal isn’t to constantly monitor them, but to guide them toward responsible digital independence. To learn more, check out our gift ideas for teens tailored to every age and level of digital independence.