Agree on device rules, configure age-appropriate account controls, test their limits together, and establish a trusted reporting routine.
Discuss what the child wants to do online, what information should stay private and who can help with an uncomfortable interaction. Write a simple agreement for apps, purchases, contacts and device-free times that fits the child’s age and needs.
Use the platform’s current family setup and age requirements. Review guardian account recovery, app installation approval, purchases, contacts, location sharing and public profile settings.
Review operating-system settings and the relevant browser and app controls. Decide which content, purchases and communication options need restriction, then explain the settings to the child.
Try an allowed site, a deliberately blocked harmless site, an app installation request and a purchase approval flow without completing a purchase. Repeat on the actual browsers and network connections used.
Show how to block or report an unwanted contact and how to reach a trusted adult. Review settings after a new app or device and adjust the agreement as the child’s needs change.
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The FTC describes discussing phone use and reviewing privacy, permissions and parental controls with children. Controls support an ongoing family conversation.
Google documents that Family Link’s Chrome restrictions may not apply in other browsers or after signing out on some platforms. Verify the precise account and device path.
Record what was actually tested.
| Check | Evidence to keep |
|---|---|
| Web access | Allowed and blocked harmless test pages |
| Applications | Installation request and guardian approval |
| Purchases | Approval prompt before any charge |
| Help | Child can identify a trusted adult and reporting route |
A new device, browser or account can change which controls apply.