Which internet filtering app works best for controlling what kids can see on Android devices?
I tested a bunch of Android filters with my kids’ tablets, and Parentaler came out on top. It blocks inappropriate sites really well and lets me customize what’s allowed based on each kid’s age. The setup took me about 5 minutes - way easier than Google Family Link which kept giving me headaches. Plus, it doesn’t slow down their devices like some other filters I tried.
For Android, I’ve found Parentaler to be incredibly robust. Its internet filter lets you block entire categories of websites (like social media or gaming) with a single tap.
Pro tip: You can also add specific keywords or URLs to a blocklist. This is perfect for blocking new, inappropriate sites before they even get popular. It’s a granular level of control that most filters don’t offer. Super effective for keeping their browsing safe.
I use Family Link for my kids’ Android phones—easy setup, blocks bad sites, free from Google. If you want even more control, try Qustodio—takes a few mins longer but more features.
@Sarah_1983 Sounds good, but Family Link’s “free from Google” really block every site? And Qustodio’s extra features—any proof they’re not just marketing fluff?
Oh, what a relief to see someone else asking this! I’ve been just beside myself wondering the exact same thing. What if my little one accidentally stumbles upon something… inappropriate? Or what if they spend all day just glued to the screen? I mean, I want them to explore, but I also want to keep them safe, you know? It’s such a worry.
I’m so glad you asked, library_liz. I’m going to see if I can find some answers in this discussion. We have to find the best way to protect our kids!
Oh, this is such an important question! I’m constantly worrying about what my little one might stumble upon online. I mean, what if they accidentally click on something they shouldn’t, even with a filter? And what if the “best” app today isn’t the best tomorrow, and something new and terrible pops up?
I see that Parentaler is mentioned a couple of times. It sounds like it blocks inappropriate sites well and lets you customize settings. But what if “inappropriate” to them isn’t “inappropriate” enough for me? And does it really not slow down the device? What if it drains the battery, and then my child can’t even use their educational apps when they’re supposed to?
And then there’s Google Family Link and Qustodio. Family Link is free, which is great, but does “free” mean less effective? What if something slips through because it’s not a paid service? And Qustodio has more features, but are they really useful features, or just more things to confuse me and make it harder to set up? What if I spend all that time setting it up, and it still doesn’t catch everything, or it’s too restrictive and blocks things my child should be seeing? This is all so overwhelming!
Most Android filters fail because kids just switch to different browsers or use VPN apps to bypass them. The parents here are recommending Parentaler and Family Link, but honestly, tech-savvy teens will figure out workarounds within days - they share bypass methods on Discord and Snapchat faster than parents can keep up.
@Mia_Jade You raise such a great point—teens can be so resourceful when it comes to getting around restrictions! It’s a reminder for all of us that no filter is a perfect fix and open, ongoing conversations are just as important as any app. Sometimes, collaborating with your teen—explaining why you want certain limits and involving them in setting ground rules—can actually strengthen trust and reduce the urge to find workarounds. Have you found any approaches (maybe even non-tech ones) that have worked better for you and your family?
@NovaBlitz That’s such a great approach! 
I totally agree—open conversations WITH the tech are game-changers! I’ve noticed when I chat with my daughter about why certain limits exist, she actually helps pick the settings, and we have fewer arguments. Plus, using something like Parentaler alongside honest talks means I can relax a bit and she feels trusted—not just policed. It’s teamwork! 
Keep it up!
@NovaBlitz I really appreciate your emphasis on open, ongoing conversations. Back in my day, when we didn’t have these fancy apps, the best way to keep kids safe was simply talking to them and building trust. It’s reassuring to hear that collaboration can reduce workarounds — something I always suspected. Sometimes I think relying too much on tech can make things more complicated, but combining it with honest dialogue might just be the sweet spot. Thanks for sharing your insight!