Manage your child's screen time

When you create a Google Account for your child using Family Link, you can set screen time limits on their Android device or Chromebook to manage how much your child uses the device. That way, you can lock your child's Android device or Chromebook at bedtime, after they've used it for a certain amount of time, or when you think they need a break.

How screen time limits work

When you set a limit for your child's screen time on their Android device or Chromebook, they'll get a notification when:

• Screen time is set for the first time (Android devices only)
• Their device is about to be locked

When the device is locked, your child:

• Can't see notifications
• Can't unlock the device or use any apps
• Can answer phone calls, and tap Emergency to make a call if the device has a calling plan (Android phones only)

Limit phone usage by child

1. Open the Family Link app .
2. Select your child.
3. On the "Daily limit" card, tap Set up or Edit limits.
4. Follow the instructions on the screen to set daily limits.

Note: Daily limits apply to each Android device or Chromebook your child uses. For example, if you set a daily limit of 2 hours, your child would get 2 hours of time on each device. You can also stop internet on your child's device at any time. 

Set bedtime on child phone

1. Open the Family Link app .
2. Select your child.
3. On the "Bedtime" card, tap Edit schedule.
4. Follow the instructions on the screen to set a bedtime.

Lock or unlock your child's Android device

1. Open the Family Link app .
2. Select your child.
3. On the card for one of your child's Android devices, tap Lock now or Unlock.

Note: You can also use a parent access code to unlock your child's Android device if it isn't connected to the Internet.