Family Tech Tools

A calm, practical shortlist of trustworthy tools for UK families. No affiliate tracking, no kickbacks — just clear explanations and links so you can choose what suits your home.

These are grouped by job-to-be-done: device controls, content filters, monitoring/alerts, and whole-home Wi-Fi. Start with the need you actually have, not the shiniest app.

Device Controls (built-in, free)

Apple Screen Time

iPhone/iPad

App limits, downtime, content restrictions and purchase approvals. Great when everyone is on Apple and you want simple, predictable rules.


Google Family Link

Android & Chromebook

Approvals for app installs, daily limits, bedtime and basic web filtering. Ideal when children use Android phones or school Chromebooks.


Content Filters (network level)

CleanBrowsing (Family DNS)

Free DNS filter that blocks adult content, malware and VPN/proxy domains at the network level. Set once on the router to cover the whole home.


OpenDNS FamilyShield

Simple, free DNS family filter from Cisco. Good first step if your router doesn’t support advanced parental options.


Monitoring and Alerts (opt-in, older kids)

Qustodio

Cross-platform controls with time limits, web filtering and app usage reports. Useful for mixed Apple/Android homes.


Bark (UK-friendly features vary)

AI-assisted alerts for potential risks in messages and social platforms. Works best when used transparently with older teens.


Whole-Home Wi-Fi with Family Profiles

Amazon eero

Reliable mesh Wi-Fi. Profiles, pauses and schedules are straightforward, which keeps evenings calm without arguments.


TP-Link Deco

Budget-friendly mesh with decent parental controls (profiles, bedtime, category filters). Good value for most UK homes.


Quick Wins You Can Do Today

On every child device

  • Set a device passcode only you know. Keep fingerprint/Face ID for the child.
  • Disable in-app purchases or require approval.
  • Review app permissions for camera, mic and location.

On the router

  • Rename devices clearly (e.g. “Alex-iPad”, “Alex-Switch”).
  • Create profiles and add a simple school-night schedule.
  • Add a family DNS filter (CleanBrowsing or FamilyShield).

In each app

  • Switch profiles to private, disable “add by phone number”.
  • Lock down chat or friends to real-life contacts only.
  • Turn off location sharing unless it’s for family safety.

How we choose tools. We prioritise: clear parental controls, privacy by design, sensible defaults, and transparent pricing. We do not take affiliate fees. Links above are for convenience and price-checking only.

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