How to set up an Android phone for a child
Set up Google Family Link — it's Android's parental control system that lets you approve app downloads, set screen time limits, see location, and block inappropriate content. It takes 15 minutes and gives you full control from your own phone.
Google Family Link is Android's built-in parental control system that lets you create a child account, approve app downloads, set daily screen time limits, and see where your child is. Unlike iPhone's Family Sharing, Family Link works even if the child uses a different Google account than yours. Set it up before handing over the phone, and you'll have complete control over what the child can download, how long they use it, and what they can see.
No step-by-step guide available for this issue yet — book a technician directly.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Creating a regular Gmail account for the child instead of a Family Link account — regular accounts don't have parental controls
- Installing Family Link only on your phone and forgetting to install it on the child's phone — it needs to be on both
- Setting the Play Store age rating too high — 3+ and 7+ are too open for most children
- Not setting both screen time limits AND downtime — limits daily use, downtime blocks use at specific hours
Signs you need professional help
- Family Link won't let you create a child account — you probably need to update the app or Android
- The child's phone won't sign into the Family Link account
- Location sharing isn't working or only shows the location sometimes
- You need help adjusting the restrictions after the initial setup
Book a technician
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Can't fix it yourself?
Most issues are resolved remotely in 15 minutes. Weekend appointments only — no parts, no in-home visit needed.