How to use supervision tools (and get your child on board)

Parental supervision tools can help you keep your child safer and happier online, but that can depend on how they’re used. 

The goal isn’t to spy, but to guide and support your child as they learn to navigate the digital world. Used thoughtfully, these tools can reduce family tension and encourage better digital habits.

Do a bit of research

Many popular apps and games have supervision tools available – from younger ages with Youtube Kids and Roblox to 13 apps like TikTok. They can help you manage privacy, screen time limits, spending, content levels, and more. Find out what’s available and what might be useful. 

Make a plan

Before setting anything up, think about your priorities. Are you more concerned about the time spent on devices, the content they might see, who they might chat with, or all of the above?

Introduce them clearly

Supervision tools could also be a condition of your child starting to use a new social media app – or maybe introduced if you’re struggling with screen time or another issue. Your child is more likely to be receptive if tools are used as a supportive measure than a punishment. 

Explain what tools will be used and why. Try to help your child understand the benefit, which will be to give them more freedom, not less. 

Set rules together

Work with your child to decide any levels of restrictions that you add. For example, discuss screen time limits of content filters, and do consider their ideas about what’s fair and appropriate. 

Shared decision-making helps them understand the reasons behind the rules and encourages cooperation.

Stay involved

Supervision tools aren’t a substitute for good old-fashioned parenting. As often as possible, check the tools and restrictions are still working and that the limits make sense. 

Ask your child how things are going and if any adjustments are needed. Showing interest helps the tools feel supportive rather than controlling.

Be flexible and review

Children grow quickly, and so will their digital world. 

Adjusting limits as needed shows that supervision is about guidance and trust, not control. Flexibility helps maintain a positive relationship with technology and with your child.