Chromebook Parental Controls: Family Link and ChromeOS Settings

How parental controls work on Chromebooks

Chromebooks run ChromeOS, the cloud-first operating system built by Google. Every Chromebook includes a set of security features that protect the device from malware and tampering. The ChromeOS Enterprise page describes these protections: verified boot, data encryption, sandboxing, and a read-only operating system that blocks executables. These features help keep your child's Chromebook safe even before you add parental controls. For a deeper look, see our guide to Chromebook security features.

For day-to-day management, Google provides Family Link. Family Link is a free app that lets a parent create a supervised Google Account for a child. With that account, you can decide which apps are installed, set daily screen time limits, and choose what content the child can see on the web. Family Link works across Android devices and Chromebooks, and it is the primary way to enforce parental controls on ChromeOS.

• Create a supervised account for your child.
• Approve or block app downloads from the Google Play Store.
• Set daily limits and bedtime schedules.
• Filter websites and search results.
• Track the child's device location (on Android phones; on Chromebooks location tracking is limited).

Setting up Family Link

Before you can manage your child's Chromebook, you need a Google Account yourself and a child account that is at least 13 years old (or the age of consent in your country). Family Link lets you create that account directly from your own phone or computer. The setup process takes about 10 minutes: you sign in to Family Link, add a new account for the child, and then sign in to the Chromebook with that account.

Once the child's account is added, you can manage it from the Family Link app on your phone or from the Family Link website in a browser. The parent device does not need to be a Chromebook; it can run Android or iOS. The child's Chromebook will receive the account profile and the associated policies automatically. If you already have a child account, you can add it to Family Link by opening the app and following the guided steps.

Managing screen time

Screen time limits are one of the most useful features in Family Link. You can set a daily limit for each day of the week, and the Chromebook will lock when the limit is reached. The limit applies to the entire device, not just a single app, so it covers both schoolwork and play. You can also define a bedtime window outside of which the device is locked, which helps establish a healthy routine.

When the Chromebook is near its limit, the child will see a warning. If you grant extra time, you can do so from the Family Link app; the extension is temporary and does not change the base limit. For children who need more flexibility, you can pause the device instantly from your phone, which is useful during dinner or homework time. These controls work because the child's account is supervised; a standard account cannot be locked by a parent.

Filtering apps and content

Family Link lets you control which apps are installed on the Chromebook. By default, the child can ask permission to install apps from the Google Play Store. You receive a request, and you can approve or block based on the app's content rating. You can also choose to allow only apps rated for the child's age, or you can manually approve every app. This prevents the child from downloading games or tools you haven't reviewed.

Web filtering is another key layer. Family Link can block adult sites and force SafeSearch on Google. The filter uses Google's own SafeSearch and Safe Browsing technology, which are also used in the Chrome browser. You can also block specific websites or allow only a list of approved sites. For younger children, you might choose the 'Approved sites only' mode, which restricts browsing to a curated list you manage. For older kids, a blocklist of inappropriate domains is usually more practical.

ChromeOS itself provides additional security when browsing. The operating system runs each site in a sandbox, so a compromised page cannot read files elsewhere on the device. This is part of the security story that Google highlights for ChromeOS, and it works alongside Family Link's content filters.

Using ChromeOS settings directly

Some parental controls are also available in the Chromebook's own Settings app, even without Family Link. If you set up the Chromebook with a regular (non-supervised) account, you can enable SafeSearch in Google Chrome, turn on restricted mode for YouTube, and configure per-site permissions like camera or microphone access. These settings are useful for older children who have their own account but still need some guardrails.

To adjust these, open the Chrome browser, go to Settings, and look for Privacy and security. There you can use SafeSearch and manage site permissions. For a supervised account, these options are controlled by Family Link and may be hidden to prevent the child from changing them. If you want to lock down the device more firmly, consider using Family Link even for a teenager; you can always adjust the settings as they get older.

Choosing a Chromebook for a child

The Chromebook you pick for your child matters for durability and usability. For young children, a smaller 11-inch or 12-inch model is lightweight and easy to carry, and it may have a touchscreen that is intuitive for little hands. For older students, a 14-inch model with a full keyboard is often better for typing assignments. If you want the flexibility of a tablet, consider a 2-in-1 design that converts to a display that can be used as a slate. Check our best 11 inch Chromebooks and best 14 inch Chromebooks for specifics. For a convertible design, see best 2-in-1 Chromebooks.

All Chromebooks receive automatic updates for 10 years from the platform release date, according to the Auto Update policy. That long support window means your child's device will stay secure through their school years. Also consider storage: 32GB or 64GB is fine for web-based work and Android apps, but if your child edits video or downloads many apps, a 128GB model offers more room. You can explore options in our best 128GB Chromebooks guide.

When you're ready to buy, review our buying guides to match the child's age and needs. For durability and portability, the best 11 inch Chromebooks are a safe start. Students with more demanding schoolwork might prefer a Chromebook Plus model, which includes AI features like help with writing and image generation. For a budget-friendly pick, see budget Chromebooks.

What to pick for your child's Chromebook

Questions

Is Family Link free to use?

Yes, Family Link is a free service provided by Google. You need a Google Account to set it up, and the child needs a Google Account that you supervise. There are no subscription costs for the parental control features.

Does Family Link work with any Chromebook?

Family Link works on all Chromebooks that support supervised accounts. Because Family Link is part of ChromeOS, any Chromebook released in recent years will work. To be sure, check the device's support page or confirm that it can be set up with a supervised account.

Can I control screen time without Family Link?

You can use ChromeOS built-in settings to some degree, such as enabling SafeSearch and setting timezone-based limits, but Family Link provides the most comprehensive controls. Without a supervised account, you cannot lock the device remotely or set automatic daily limits. Family Link is the recommended way to enforce strict screen time rules.

What about school-managed Chromebooks?

If your child's Chromebook is enrolled in a school or business, the administrator controls many settings. You may not be able to install Family Link or change parental controls directly. In that case, talk to the school administrator about the policies in place. Some districts allow a personal mode that works alongside Family Link, but it is not guaranteed.