Free & Low-Cost Tools for Online Safety
🔐 Parental Control & Monitoring Tools
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- Google Family Link (Free)
Manage screen time, approve apps, and locate Android devices. Great for Google product users, but lacks advanced controls such as in-depth app blocking, flexible time restrictions, and geofencing capabilities. - Apple Screen Time (Free)
Set time limits, block content, and monitor usage on iPhones/iPads. Includes app limits, communication controls, and content restrictions. - Bark (Free trial, $8.25-$14/month)
Monitors texts, email, and 30+ social media platforms for signs of bullying, predators, or risky content. Rather than providing constant access to everything your child does online, Bark alerts you when potential issues are detected. The app also offers check-in alerts when your child reaches designated locations and provides AI-powered real-time monitoring. - YouTube Kids (Free)
Age-appropriate video content with parent-approved channels and timers. Note that while filters are good, parental oversight is still recommended as some inappropriate content may occasionally slip through.
🛑 Filtering & Safe Browsing
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- CleanBrowsing DNS (Free & Premium options)
A DNS filter that blocks entire categories like pornography and partial nudity, while allowing you to create custom allow/block lists. The system provides network-level security against malware and phishing attacks. - OpenDNS Family Shield (Free)
Filters harmful content at the router level without requiring software installation. While simple to set up, it primarily blocks adult content, proxies, and malicious websites, but lacks customization options found in paid alternatives. - Google SafeSearch (Free)
Built-in search filter for kid-friendly web results (available in Google settings). Can be locked at the browser level for consistent protection.
📱 App & Social Media Guides
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- ConnectSafely (Free)
Parent-friendly guides to popular apps like TikTok, Snapchat, Discord, and more. Part of Google’s family information portal with resources from several trusted organizations.
➤ connectsafely.org/parents - Common Sense Media (Free)
App/game reviews and advice on screen time, privacy, and digital habits. Provides research-backed recommendations and age-appropriate ratings for apps, games, movies, and more.
➤ commonsensemedia.org
📝 Family Agreements & Rules
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- SafeKids.com Family Contract (Free printable)
Set clear rules for online behavior, privacy, and tech use.
➤ safekids.com/family-contract - NetSmartz Safety Pledges (Free)
Printable pledges for different age groups to promote safe online choices.
➤ missingkids.org/netsmartz
💡 Additional Resources
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- Internet Matters (Free)
Age-specific guides, setting up devices, and addressing online issues.
➤ internetmatters.org - Be Internet Awesome (Free)
Google’s digital citizenship program teaches kids to be safe, confident explorers online.
➤ beinternetawesome.withgoogle.com
Remember:
- No tool is 100% effective – open communication with your child is essential
- Review and update settings regularly as children grow and technology changes
- Consider a layered approach using multiple tools for comprehensive protection
Learn more about YWCA’s education services here.