The article from Wirecutter discusses the best parental control apps to manage screen time and ensure online safety for children. It highlights the growing concern among parents regarding the impact of smartphones and social media on children's well-being. The article offers expert recommendations for various age groups and platforms, detailing features, setup processes, and limitations of each app, including Apple Screen Time, Google Family Link, and Qustodio. Additionally, it provides guidelines for parents on how to engage with their children regarding smartphone use and establish healthy screen time habits.
Key Points:
- The article identifies top parental control apps:
- Apple Screen Time: Best for iOS families.
- Google Family Link: Recommended for Android families with kids under 13.
- Qustodio: Suitable for Android families with children 13 and older.
- Parental concerns about smartphones include sleep disruption and social media’s effect on mental health.
- Recommendations suggest establishing clear rules and designated screen-free times.
- Effective parental controls should easily manage device use, cap screen time, and set schedules for device accessibility.
- The selection process involved expert interviews and testing various applications.
- It emphasizes that parental controls should not replace open discussions with children about technology and screen time.
- Offers a glimpse into alternatives and competitors like Circle and Bark, their features, and limitations.
Link to Article
Episode