How to Block Apps on Family Link
In this digital age, it’s important for parents to have control over their children’s online activities. Google Family Link is a powerful tool that allows you to manage and monitor your child’s usage of smartphones and tablets. One of the key features of Family Link is the ability to block apps that you deem inappropriate or excessive. In this article, we will guide you on how to block apps on Family Link to ensure a safe and balanced digital experience for your child.
Step 1: Install Family Link
To begin, you need to install the Family Link app on your device and your child’s device. Both devices should be running either Android 5.0 or higher, or iOS 9 or higher.
Step 2: Set Up a Family Group
Create a family group on Family Link by adding your child’s Google account to your account. This will allow you to manage their device and app usage.
Step 3: Block Apps
On your device, open the Family Link app and select your child’s account. Navigate to the “Apps” tab and choose the app you want to block. Toggle the switch to “Blocked” to prevent your child from accessing the app.
Step 4: Approve or Block Apps Automatically
You can also choose to automatically approve or block apps that are recommended for your child’s age group. Simply go to the “Apps” tab, tap on “Settings,” and enable the toggle switch for “Manage Google Play apps.”
Step 5: Manage App Permissions
Family Link also allows you to manage app permissions for the apps your child uses. From the “Apps” tab, select the app and tap on “Permissions.” You can then choose which permissions to allow or block for that particular app.
Step 6: Set App Time Limits
To ensure a healthy balance between screen time and other activities, you can set daily app time limits. From the “Apps” tab, tap on “Set limits,” select the desired time limit, and tap on “OK.”
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: Can I block specific websites using Family Link?
A1: No, Family Link doesn’t have the capability to block specific websites. However, you can use other tools like browser extensions or parental control apps to achieve this.
Q2: Can I block social media apps on Family Link?
A2: Yes, you can block any app, including social media apps, using the app blocking feature on Family Link.
Q3: Can I unblock apps later?
A3: Yes, you can unblock apps at any time by following the same steps and toggling the switch to “Allowed.”
Q4: Can I block apps on Family Link remotely?
A4: Yes, as long as both devices have an internet connection, you can block apps remotely by accessing the Family Link app on your device.
Q5: Can my child request access to a blocked app?
A5: Yes, your child can send you a request to access a blocked app. You will receive the request on your device, and you can choose to approve or deny it.
Q6: Can I block apps for specific times of the day?
A6: No, Family Link doesn’t have a feature to block apps for specific times. However, you can set daily app time limits to control overall usage.
Q7: Will blocking an app remove it from my child’s device?
A7: No, blocking an app will only prevent your child from accessing it. The app will remain installed on their device.
Q8: Can I block system apps on Family Link?
A8: No, Family Link doesn’t allow blocking of system apps that come pre-installed on the device.
Q9: Can my child bypass the app blocking feature?
A9: No, app blocking on Family Link is designed to prevent your child from accessing blocked apps.
Q10: Can I block apps on iOS devices using Family Link?
A10: Yes, Family Link supports app blocking on iOS devices running iOS 9 or higher.
Q11: Can I block apps on multiple devices at once?
A11: Yes, if you have multiple children in your family group, you can block apps on all their devices simultaneously by managing their accounts through Family Link.
In conclusion, Family Link offers effective tools to block apps and manage your child’s digital experience. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure a safe and balanced online environment for your child.