Parenting internet controls aren’t foolproof. They’re glitchy, and companies like Apple and Snapchat are doing whatever they can to make it difficult to monitor our kids online. The best way to protect our kids online is to have open, honest conversations with them.
Start there. Then choose one of these parenting internet controls and get it into place today on all devices that connect to the internet—cellphones, tablets, gaming systems, smart TVs, computers, you name it. And use these tools as exactly that, one of the many tools in your tool belt to help guard and protect your child in the online world. Because, even if they are glitchy, if they protect your child’s eyes from porn even once, isn’t that worth it?
1. Bark
Features: Bark offers internet filtering, social media, text, and email monitoring, screen-time management, and location tracking.
Strengths:
- This is the best tool for social media monitoring. It monitors direct messages, posts, and comments on over 30 social media platforms, including Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and Facebook. It sends alerts for potential dangers like cyberbullying, explicit content, and self-harm.
- Monitors texts and emails
- Sends alerts to parents without reading every message, using AI-driven alerts to flag concerning content
Weaknesses:
- Complicated setup, especially across multiple devices and platforms
Platforms: iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, Chromebooks, Amazon Fire Tablets
Website: bark.us
2. Qustodio
Features: Comprehensive website and app filtering, screen-time management, real-time monitoring, detailed activity reports, and location tracking
Strengths:
- Supports multiple browsers and can enforce safe search settings on Google, Bing, and YouTube
- On Android, parents can monitor call logs and text messages for insights into whom their child is communicating with.
Weaknesses:
- Does not effectively monitor social media platforms
- Call and text monitoring only available on Android, not iOS devices
Platforms: iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Chromebook, and Kindle
Website: qustodio.com
3. Net Nanny
Features: Advanced web filtering with real-time content analysis to filter explicit material, app and screen-time management, and profanity masking, which replaces inappropriate words with symbols
Strengths:
- Stronger web filtering capabilities as compared to other tools
- App-specific time limits
Weakness:
- Does not monitor social media apps
- Limited text and email monitoring
Platforms: iOS, Android, Windows, macOS
Website: netnanny.com
4. Covenant Eyes
Features: Customizable content filters that can block websites and enforce SafeSearch on search engines such as YouTube; ability to choose an accountability partner who receives real-time reports to promote open conversations
Strengths:
- Stronger web filtering capabilities as compared to other tools
- Harder to bypass than other parental controls
- Comprehensive screen monitoring across various applications and browsers using advanced AI technology
Weaknesses:
- Does not monitor social media apps or messages
- Does not monitor calls or texts
- Due to its VPN, it can slow down browsing speed and increase battery consumption.
- The software may inaccurately flag content, which can lead to unnecessary alerts and trust issues between users and accountability partners.
Platforms: iOS, Android, Windows, macOS
Website: covenanteyes.com
5. Circle Home Plus
Features: Comprehensive device management for all devices connected to the home network that offers content filtering, screen time management, and usage information; extends management capabilities beyond your home network using a VPN
Strengths:
- Guest device management so your child’s friend can’t access inappropriate content in your home
- Easy to use
Weaknesses:
- Does not monitor social media apps
- Does not monitor calls or texts
- Lengthy setup process
- Location tracking may be inaccurate and some struggle with app crashes.
- The app only works on iOS and Android devices (not tablets or laptops).
Platforms: iOS, Android, all devices on home Wi-Fi
Website: meetcircle.com
6. Mobicip
Features: Comprehensive web and app filtering across multiple browsers, screen-time management, and location tracking.
Strengths:
- Accurate, real-time location tracking
- Easy to use
Weaknesses:
- Monitors only three social media platforms: Instagram, Snapchat, and Facebook; however, does not provide direct message monitoring like Bark
- Does not monitor calls or texts
Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, ChromeOS, and Kindle
Website: mobicip.com
The best way you can protect your child is by having frequent, honest conversations about online safety. However, these parental controls can also be useful tools in helping keep your child safe.
Sound off: What other tools do you use to protect your family from exposure to explicit content?
Huddle up with your kids and ask, “Have you ever seen something you wish you had never seen?”