Worried about what your kids are accessing online? You’re not alone. In 2025, nearly 80% of parents express concern about their children’s screen time and exposure to online threats. From social media addiction and inappropriate content to cyberbullying and privacy breaches—monitoring your child’s digital life has become non-negotiable. That’s where the best software for parental control comes in. Whether you’re managing a household of teens, setting digital boundaries for toddlers, or coordinating with co-parents in hybrid households, these tools offer tailored control and peace of mind.
With smarter AI-based monitoring, real-time alerts, time tracking, and multi-device sync, today’s parental control apps are more advanced and easier to use than ever. Let’s explore the 10 best parental control tools that can help you regain control without feeling like a full-time IT admin.
What Is Parental Control?
Parental control refers to the tools and features that help parents monitor and manage their children’s online and digital activities. These controls can block inappropriate content, set screen time limits, track location, and monitor app usage to ensure a safe and healthy digital environment. They’re especially useful in today’s world where kids have constant access to smartphones, tablets, and computers.
Whether you’re trying to limit distractions during homework time or keep your child safe from online predators, parental control software gives you peace of mind. It helps build trust while still allowing kids to explore the digital world—just with safer boundaries in place.
How to Choose the Right Parental Control Tool
When picking the best software for parental control, start by identifying your family’s unique needs. Do you want to block adult content, track location, manage screen time, or monitor social media? Some tools specialize in web filtering and app blocking, while others focus on GPS tracking or screen time scheduling. Prioritize tools that offer flexible features based on your child’s age and device usage.
Also, consider ease of use and compatibility. The ideal tool should work across multiple platforms—like Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS—and offer a parent-friendly dashboard for quick setup. Look for options with strong privacy policies and responsive customer support. A free trial or demo can also help you test the features before committing.
The Best Software for Parental Control
1. Qustodio – Android, iOS, Web, Windows, macOS
Qustodio is a powerhouse when it comes to full-featured monitoring. Best for parents who want strong control across multiple platforms.
Pros:
- Excellent screen time management
- Detailed activity reports
- Great multi-platform coverage
Cons:
-
Premium features are pricey
Qustodio offers a rich dashboard that gives you instant insights into your child’s app usage, web browsing, and device activity. It allows for easy time scheduling, blocking apps like TikTok or YouTube, and even tracking calls and texts on Android. The app’s clean interface and pre-set rules make it beginner-friendly, while its powerful back end appeals to tech-savvy parents.
Pricing: Free plan available; premium starts at $54.95/year.
Ideal for: Families managing multiple devices and screen time discipline.
2. Bark – Android, iOS, Chrome, Web
Bark focuses on AI-powered alerts for risky content—great for parents of tweens and teens who are active on social media.
Pros:
- Monitors 30+ social platforms
- Real-time alerts for issues like cyberbullying
- Teen-friendly interface
Cons:
-
No screen time limits in the base plan
Bark uses AI to scan texts, emails, and apps for signs of bullying, depression, or inappropriate content. Instead of overwhelming you with raw data, it sends curated alerts so you can intervene when necessary. It’s privacy-conscious and gives older kids some autonomy, which can reduce pushback.
Pricing: $14/month or $99/year.
Ideal for: Social-savvy teens and parents who prefer alerts over micromanagement.
3. Norton Family – Android, Windows, iOS (limited), Web
From the makers of Norton Antivirus, Norton Family is a robust and trustworthy choice for digital supervision.
Pros:
- Location supervision with geofencing
- School time scheduler
- Great for Windows users
Cons:
-
Limited functionality on iOS
Norton Family lets you block websites, monitor search terms, and track screen time across devices. Its “School Time” mode helps keep your kids focused during online learning hours. While iOS features are limited due to Apple restrictions, the Windows experience is top-tier.
Pricing: Included with Norton 360 Deluxe ($49.99/year).
Ideal for: Parents already using Norton products and Windows-heavy households.
4. Net Nanny – Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Kindle
Net Nanny has been around for years—and for good reason. It’s a strong all-rounder that filters content in real-time.
Pros:
- Real-time content filtering
- Slick, modern interface
- Strong app blocking
Cons:
-
Slight learning curve
Net Nanny stands out with its smart content analysis that goes beyond simple keyword blocking. Whether it’s detecting violent content or blocking explicit material, it updates filters in real time. Parents can set daily screen time limits and track locations, all from a sleek dashboard.
Pricing: Starts at $39.99/year for one device; $89.99/year for up to 20.
Ideal for: Families who want detailed control with modern UX.
5. Google Family Link – Android, iOS, Chromebook
Google Family Link is a solid, free option for younger kids using Android or Chromebooks.
Pros:
- Completely free
- App approval and screen time controls
- Native Android integration
Cons:
- Not suitable for teens
- Limited social monitoring
This tool lets parents approve app downloads, set bedtimes, lock devices, and monitor app usage. It’s intuitive and works smoothly across Google ecosystems. However, it lacks the nuanced alerts or social media tracking you’ll want for older kids.
Pricing: Free
Ideal for: Parents of elementary-aged children using Android devices.
6. Kaspersky Safe Kids – Android, iOS, Windows, macOS
Kaspersky Safe Kids brings affordable, AI-driven monitoring and educational alerts for digital safety.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Includes YouTube search monitoring
- Real-time battery status alerts
Cons:
-
Some features require technical setup
In addition to content filters and screen time management, Kaspersky offers tools like location tracking and low battery alerts, which help you stay connected. It also tracks YouTube searches—a rare feature. The free version includes basic controls, while the premium unlocks more.
Pricing: Free plan available; premium at $14.99/year.
Ideal for: Budget-conscious families wanting smart monitoring.
7. MMGuardian – Android, iOS
MMGuardian focuses on detailed control, especially for Android users. Best for strict parenting strategies.
Pros:
- Powerful text and app monitoring
- Custom alerts and keyword detection
- Strong anti-sexting feature
Cons:
-
Interface feels dated
This tool is ideal for parents of teenagers, offering in-depth SMS review, app control, and even alerts on sexting or bullying language. While the UI could use a refresh, the features are top-tier for Android-heavy homes.
Pricing: $34.99/year per device; family plans available.
Ideal for: Parents wanting detailed content control, especially for teens.
8. Mobicip – Android, iOS, Web
Mobicip offers a beautiful dashboard and flexible plans. Great for modern digital households.
Pros:
- Real-time content blocking
- Clean, intuitive interface
- Multi-profile management
Cons:
-
Web filtering can be too aggressive
Mobicip’s parental dashboard lets you see everything from app usage to browsing history in one place. You can pause the internet, block content, and get location updates instantly. It’s also great for households with multiple kids of different ages.
Pricing: Starts at $49.99/year for 5 devices.
Ideal for: Families that value design and flexibility.
9. OurPact – Android, iOS
OurPact makes screen time and app management effortless with its intuitive drag-and-drop interface.
Pros:
- App blocking via drag-and-drop
- Geofencing features
- Clean UI for busy parents
Cons:
-
Some features are iOS-only
With easy scheduling and geofencing, OurPact helps you set healthy boundaries without overwhelming menus. It’s great for co-parents and families who need flexibility across devices and platforms.
Pricing: Free plan available; premium starts at $6.99/month.
Ideal for: Parents who want ease of use and cross-platform flexibility.
10. FamilyTime – Android, iOS
FamilyTime adds a personal touch to parental control, with features like SOS alerts and driving speed monitoring.
Pros:
- SOS panic button
- Driving safety features
- Real-time location tracking
Cons:
-
Some features hidden behind higher-tier plans
FamilyTime offers a more proactive take on child safety. Beyond content blocking and time management, it includes SOS alerts, pick-me-up requests, and even driving reports for teen drivers. It’s a true parenting partner.
Pricing: $27/year for 1 device; family plans available.
Ideal for: Parents with older kids or young drivers.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best software for parental control is more than just installing an app—it’s about creating a safer digital environment for your child. With online threats evolving and screen time rising, having the right tool makes a big difference in how confidently you manage your family’s tech habits.
Each parental control solution offers its own mix of monitoring, filtering, scheduling, and location features. Some are ideal for tech-savvy parents who want in-depth analytics, while others shine with simple, user-friendly interfaces for quick setup. Think about what matters most—flexibility, privacy, platform support, or real-time alerts—and choose accordingly. The right tool can empower you to guide your child’s digital journey while giving them the freedom to explore safely.
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