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Monitoring Matters: Apps to Keep Our Kids Safe Online

As a millennial mom who grew up alongside the internet (back when we had to fight for dial-up time and hope no one picked up the phone), I know firsthand that the digital world is equal parts amazing and chaotic. Recently, I glanced at a chat between my daughter and her friends—what they saw as harmless jokes could have easily been misinterpreted. Cue my mini heart attack. It was a wake-up call for both of us: them realizing that words can take on a whole new meaning online, and me realizing that parenting in the digital age is basically a full-time job... with no PTO.

The Reality of the Digital Footprint
The internet never forgets. Kids need to understand from the moment they go online that their devices are not private journals or diaries. Anything they post, send, or even joke about can be taken out of context, screenshotted, and follow them forever. The digital footprint they create today could impact their future opportunities, relationships, and even their mental well-being.


Beyond Screen Time: Parental Apps You Can Use

Apple’s Screen Time gives parents a little insight into what their kids are doing online, but let’s be honest—it’s far from perfect. I’ve found it frustrating, unreliable, and slow to update. Plus, kids are smart, and many have already figured out how to bypass passcodes and restrictions, which totally defeats the purpose.

That’s why I started looking into better options—ones that actually will give us a real look into what’s happening on our child’s devices. One of my favorites? Bark. It doesn’t just set time limits—it actively monitors texts, emails, YouTube, and 30+ apps and social platforms for cyberbullying, inappropriate content, predators, and even warning signs of depression or violence. Whether it’s an iPad or a cellphone, Bark sends parents an alert if something concerning pops up, so we can step in before things spiral.

If you’re looking for more than just a vague idea of what your kid is up to online, it’s definitely worth checking out.

More Apps to Help You Keep an Eye on Things:

Google Family Link – Lets parents track screen time, regulate app usage, and block certain apps during school hours. You can even approve contacts and set limits for safer device use. Learn More

Bark – Monitors texts, emails, and social media for red flags like cyberbullying, depression, and predators, sending parents alerts when needed. Learn More

Net Nanny – Offers real-time internet filtering, screen time management, and location tracking to make sure kids are accessing age-appropriate content. Learn More

OurPact – Lets parents block or grant app access, set screen time allowances, and schedule device-free time for family moments. Learn More

Qustodio – A solid all-in-one option with web filtering, app blocking, and detailed activity reports for extra peace of mind. Learn More

Extra Tips for Keeping Your Kids Safe Online

Keep Talking – Encourage your kids to tell you about anything weird, uncomfortable, or confusing they encounter online.

Teach Online Etiquette – Make sure they understand that words carry weight—even in a text.

Set Clear Rules – Define what apps are okay, how much screen time is reasonable, and what’s off-limits.

Lead by Example – Kids watch everything we do. Show them what responsible screen time looks like.

Stay in the Know – The internet changes fast. Stay up to date on the latest apps and trends so you can be proactive instead of reactive.

At the end of the day, we can’t protect our kids from everything online, but by staying involved, setting boundaries, and using the right tools, we can give them the best shot at navigating the digital world safely.

Ebony Bagley - Internet Wellness Advocate



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