Huh? Oh yes, all parents of young children have at one time or another faced the problem of screens, and it’s important to ensure reasonable and responsible use on a daily basis.

The solution exists for the Android ecosystem and it’s called Google Family Link.

Google Family Link is a parental control app designed to help parents manage their children’s use of Android devices and Chromebooks, particularly with regard to screen time.

Here is a description of the screen time limits offered by Google Family Link.

1. Daily Device Time Limits
* Parents can set a maximum daily usage time for their child’s Android or Chromebook device. Once this limit is reached, the device is locked.

* The child receives notifications before the device is locked.

* When the device is locked, the child cannot access notifications or use most apps (except those designated as “no time limit apps“).

They can still answer phone calls and dial emergency numbers if the device has a calling plan.

* These daily limits apply to each device the child uses. For example, if a 2-hour limit is set, the child will have 2 hours of usage time on each device they use.

2. Downtime/School Time Scheduling

* Family Link allows you to create specific schedules for school and downtime periods.

* During “downtime” (often in the evening or at night), your child’s device is locked, preventing them from using apps or browsing.

* “School Time” can be configured to minimize distractions by turning off notifications and limiting phone functionality during school hours.

Parents can choose which apps are silenced and restricted, and even adjust the schedule for school holidays or breaks.

3. Time Limits for Individual Apps

* In addition to overall device limits, parents can set specific time limits for each app. This allows you to control the time your child spends on games, social media, or other specific apps.

* Some apps may be designated as “no time limit apps” (for example, educational apps or essential communication tools). These apps do not count toward the daily limit and remain accessible even when the device is locked.

4. App Activity Reports

* Family Link provides detailed app activity reports, allowing parents to see which apps their child uses the most and for how long. This information helps parents make informed decisions about usage rules.

5. Bonus Time

* Parents can grant their child extra time on their device without changing daily limits or preset schedules. This is useful for special occasions or if the child needs more time for a specific task.

How it works

* The parent installs the Family Link app on their own device and creates a supervised Google Account for their child (or supervises an existing Google Account).

* The Family Link app on the parent’s device allows them to manage all screen time, content, and privacy settings remotely.

* The child signs in to their Android device or Chromebook with their supervised Google Account, and the rules set by the parent apply automatically.

Google Family Link offers this flexible set of tools to help parents proactively and individually manage their children’s screen time, promoting a healthy digital balance.