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Step-by-step instruction guide for parents to set up Android-based parental controls using Google's Family Link:
(to be validated - generated by ChatGPT)
1. Create a Google Account for Your Child
**Open Settings** on your child’s device.
Scroll down and tap **Accounts**.
Tap **Add Account** and select **Google**.
Follow the prompts to create a new Google account for your child. You’ll need to provide some information like their name, birth date, and desired email address.
2. Download and Install Google Family Link
On your device, open the **Google Play Store**.
Search for **Google Family Link** and download **Family Link for Parents**.
On your child’s device, download **Family Link for Children & Teens**.
3. Set Up Family Link
**On Your Device:**
Open the **Family Link for Parents** app.
Follow the on-screen instructions to set up Family Link. You will need to link your child’s Google account to your own.
**On Your Child’s Device:**
Open the **Family Link for Children & Teens** app.
Follow the prompts to sign in with your child’s new Google account.
Enter the code provided on your device to link the accounts.
4. Configure Parental Controls
**On Your Device:**
Open the **Family Link for Parents** app.
Select your child’s account.
Tap **Manage Settings** and explore the different options to set up controls:
**Screen Time:** Set daily limits for device usage and create a bedtime schedule.
**Apps:** Approve or block apps your child wants to download from the Play Store.
**Location:** See the location of your child’s device.
**Activity:** View your child’s app activity and set limits on specific apps.
**Filter Content:** Set filters for Google Search, Chrome, and the Play Store.
5. Set Up Filters and Restrictions
**Google Play Store:**
Open the **Family Link for Parents** app.
Tap **Manage Settings** > **Controls on Google Play**.
Choose the type of content you want to restrict, like apps, games, movies, and books.
**Chrome Browser:**
Open the **Family Link for Parents** app.
Tap **Manage Settings** > **Filters on Google Chrome**.
Select the appropriate setting (e.g., “Try to block mature sites”).
**Google Search:**
Open the **Family Link for Parents** app.
Tap **Manage Settings** > **Filters on Google Search**.
Turn on **SafeSearch** to block explicit results.
6. Manage and Monitor
Regularly check the **Family Link for Parents** app to monitor your child’s device usage and adjust settings as needed.
Use the app to set temporary controls, such as locking the device during homework time or allowing extra screen time as a reward.
Tips for Effective Parental Controls
Communicate: Discuss with your child why these controls are necessary and how they can earn more privileges.
Adjust as Needed: Regularly review and adjust settings based on your child’s age and maturity.
Stay Informed: Keep up with new features and updates to the Family Link app.