How to Block Apps on iPhone - Simple Process

As the usage of smartphones continues to increase, it’s becoming more important to have control over the apps and content we have access to. For parents, this is especially important when it comes to their children’s device usage. Block apps on an iPhone is a simple process that can help you limit the amount of time your kids spend on certain apps or restrict access to inappropriate content.

In this blog post, we will explore different methods for blocking apps on an iPhone and the benefits of each approach. Whether you’re a concerned parent or simply looking to take control of your own device usage, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to get started.

Table Of Contents

Importance of Blocking Apps on iPhone

Blocking apps on an iPhone has several important benefits. Firstly, it helps to restrict access to inappropriate or harmful content. With the rise of social media and online gaming, it’s become increasingly important for parents to be able to control what their children can access on their devices. Blocking apps can help to prevent exposure to explicit or violent material, cyberbullying, and other negative online experiences.

Additionally, limiting access to certain apps can also help to reduce screen time and promote healthy device usage. With the growing concern over the impact of excessive screen time on our physical and mental well-being, it’s important to find ways to balance our relationship with technology. Blocking apps on an iPhone can help to enforce limits on app usage, promoting a healthier digital lifestyle.

Lastly, blocking apps can also help to increase productivity. By limiting access to time-wasting apps, you can reduce distractions and increase your focus and efficiency. Whether you’re a student, an employee, or simply looking to manage your own time more effectively, blocking apps on an iPhone can be a powerful tool for achieving your goals.

In conclusion, blocking apps on an iPhone has multiple benefits for both parents and individuals looking to take control of their device usage. Whether it’s to protect from harmful content, promote healthy device habits, or increase productivity, the importance of blocking apps cannot be overstated.

Overview of the Steps Involved

Blocking apps on an iPhone involves a few simple steps. The process will vary slightly depending on the method you choose, but here’s a general overview of what you can expect:

Set up Screen Time or Parental Controls: Depending on the method you choose, you’ll need to enable the relevant feature on your iPhone. Screen Time is built into the iOS operating system and can be enabled in the Settings app. Parental Controls require a separate setup process, which we’ll cover in more detail later.
Identify the apps you want to block: Take some time to consider which apps you want to restrict access to. Whether it’s social media, gaming apps, or other distracting software, make a list of the apps you want to block.
Configure restrictions: Once you’ve set up Screen Time or Parental Controls, you’ll be able to configure restrictions for specific apps. This typically involves specifying a limit for the amount of time the app can be used, or completely disabling the app altogether.
Monitor usage: It’s important to monitor your device usage to ensure that the restrictions you’ve set are working as intended. Screen Time provides detailed usage reports, so you can track how much time is spent on specific apps.

By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to block apps on your iPhone and take control of your device usage. Whether you’re looking to restrict access to inappropriate content, limit screen time, or increase productivity, the process is straightforward and can be completed in a matter of minutes.

Purpose of the Blog Post

The purpose of this blog post is to provide a comprehensive guide on how to block apps on an iPhone. Whether you’re a concerned parent looking to restrict access to harmful content or an individual seeking to limit your own device usage, this guide will cover all the necessary information.

The blog post will cover different methods for blocking apps, including the use of the built-in Screen Time feature, Parental Controls, and alternative methods such as third-party apps. Each method will be explained in detail, with step-by-step instructions to help you set up restrictions on your device.

In addition to explaining the different methods for blocking apps, the blog post will also discuss the importance of blocking apps and the benefits it provides. By highlighting the reasons why you may want to block apps, we hope to encourage readers to consider taking control of their device usage and make changes that will have a positive impact on their lives.

Overall, the purpose of this blog post is to provide a comprehensive guide to blocking apps on an iPhone, empowering readers to make informed decisions about their device usage and promoting healthy digital habits. Whether you’re looking to protect your children, increase productivity, or simply take control of your screen time, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to get started.

Understanding the Screen Time Feature

Screen Time is a built-in feature of the iOS operating system that allows you to monitor and control your device usage. With Screen Time, you can see how much time you’re spending on specific apps and set limits for app usage to encourage healthier device habits.

To use Screen Time, you’ll need to enable the feature in the Settings app. Once you’ve done this, you’ll be able to see detailed usage reports for your device, including the amount of time spent on specific apps, the number of times an app was opened, and more.

One of the key benefits of Screen Time is that it allows you to set restrictions on specific apps. For example, you can specify a limit for the amount of time an app can be used each day, or disable an app altogether. This makes Screen Time an effective tool for blocking apps on your iPhone.

In addition to setting restrictions, Screen Time also provides you with the ability to set Downtime, a period of time during which only approved apps can be used. This can be especially useful for families, as it provides a way to limit screen time during certain times of the day, such as bedtime.

Overall, Screen Time is a powerful feature that provides a wealth of information about your device usage and offers a range of tools for controlling and limiting app usage. Whether you’re a parent looking to restrict access to harmful content, or an individual seeking to increase productivity, Screen Time is an effective solution for blocking apps on an iPhone.

What is Screen Time

Screen Time is a built-in feature of the iOS operating system that provides users with information about their device usage and allows them to set limits and restrictions on app usage. The purpose of Screen Time is to encourage healthier device habits and promote more mindful usage of smartphones and other devices.

With Screen Time, you can see exactly how much time you’re spending on specific apps, the number of times an app was opened, and other usage statistics. This information provides insight into your device habits, allowing you to make informed decisions about how you use your iPhone.

In addition to providing usage information, Screen Time also allows you to set restrictions on specific apps. For example, you can specify a limit for the amount of time an app can be used each day, or disable an app altogether. This makes Screen Time a valuable tool for parents who want to restrict access to harmful content, or individuals who want to limit their own device usage.

Screen Time also provides the ability to set Downtime, a period of time during which only approved apps can be used. This feature is useful for families, as it provides a way to limit screen time during certain times of the day, such as bedtime.

Overall, Screen Time is an important tool for anyone looking to take control of their device usage and promote healthy digital habits. Whether you’re a parent, student, or simply someone who wants to use their iPhone more mindfully, Screen Time is a valuable resource for blocking apps and monitoring device usage.

Benefits of using Screen Time

Screen Time is a powerful feature that provides a range of benefits for those looking to limit app usage on their iPhone. Here are some of the key benefits of using Screen Time:

Increased Awareness: Screen Time provides detailed information about your device usage, including the amount of time spent on specific apps, the number of times an app was opened, and more. This information provides a clear picture of your device habits, allowing you to make informed decisions about how you use your iPhone.
Control over App Usage: Screen Time allows you to set restrictions on specific apps, including setting limits for the amount of time an app can be used each day or disabling an app altogether. This makes it an effective tool for blocking apps on your iPhone and promoting healthy device habits.
Improved Productivity: By limiting the amount of time you spend on certain apps, Screen Time can help you increase productivity and focus on more important tasks. This is especially true for those who struggle with distractions and find it difficult to stay focused on work or study.
Better Family Dynamics: Screen Time is a valuable tool for parents who want to restrict access to harmful content and promote healthy device habits in their children. With Screen Time, you can set limits on specific apps and monitor your children’s device usage to ensure they’re not spending too much time on their devices.
Better Sleep: Screen Time provides the ability to set Downtime, a period of time during which only approved apps can be used. This feature is useful for families, as it provides a way to limit screen time during certain times of the day, such as bedtime, which can help improve sleep patterns.

Overall, Screen Time is a valuable feature for anyone looking to promote healthy device habits and take control of their iPhone usage. Whether you’re a parent, student, or simply someone looking to increase productivity and reduce distractions, Screen Time provides a range of benefits that make it a must-have tool for anyone with an iPhone.

Setting up Screen Time on your iPhone

Setting up Screen Time on your iPhone is a straightforward process that can be done in a few simple steps. Here’s how to set up Screen Time:

Open the Settings app on your iPhone and tap on “Screen Time.”
Tap “Turn On Screen Time.” This will enable the Screen Time feature on your device.
Tap “Continue” and then select “This is My iPhone” if you’re setting up Screen Time for the first time.
Next, you’ll be asked to set up a Screen Time passcode. This passcode will be required to make changes to Screen Time settings in the future, so make sure to choose a secure code that you’ll remember.
After setting up a passcode, you’ll be taken to the Screen Time dashboard, which provides an overview of your device usage.
From the Screen Time dashboard, you can view usage information for specific categories, such as social networking, entertainment, and productivity. You can also set limits for specific apps by tapping on the app and selecting “Add Limit.”
To set Downtime, tap on “Downtime” from the Screen Time dashboard and select the days and times during which you want Downtime to be in effect. You can also specify which apps are allowed during Downtime by tapping on “Always Allowed.”
Once you’ve set up Screen Time, you can monitor your device usage and make changes to restrictions and limits as needed.

By following these steps, you can set up Screen Time on your iPhone and take control of your device usage. Whether you’re looking to limit app usage, increase productivity, or promote healthier device habits in your family, Screen Time provides a range of tools and features to help you achieve your goals.

Blocking Apps Using Screen Time

Blocking apps using Screen Time is a simple and effective way to limit app usage on your iPhone. Here’s how to block apps using Screen Time:

Open the Settings app on your iPhone and tap on “Screen Time.”
Tap on “App Limits.” This will allow you to set limits for specific categories of apps, such as social networking, entertainment, or productivity.
Select the category of apps you want to restrict and then tap on “Add Limit.”
Choose the amount of time you want to allow for each app in this category. For example, you can set a limit of 30 minutes per day for social networking apps.
Once you’ve set the limit, you’ll see a notification pop-up when you reach the limit for that app. At this point, you’ll be unable to use the app until the next day.
To block an app entirely, tap on “App Limits” and then select the app you want to block. Tap on “Add Limit” and set the limit to “0 minutes.” This will disable the app entirely.
To allow access to an app during Downtime, tap on “Always Allowed” from the Screen Time dashboard and select the apps you want to allow.

By following these steps, you can block apps on your iPhone using Screen Time, providing a way to limit app usage and promote healthier device habits. Whether you’re looking to restrict access to certain apps for yourself or your children, Screen Time provides a simple and effective way to take control of your device usage.

How to Block Apps through Screen Time

Blocking apps through Screen Time is a simple and effective way to limit app usage on your iPhone. Here’s how to block apps through Screen Time:

Open the Settings app on your iPhone and tap on “Screen Time.”
Tap on “App Limits.” This will allow you to set limits for specific categories of apps, such as social networking, entertainment, or productivity.
Select the category of apps you want to restrict and then tap on “Add Limit.”
Choose the amount of time you want to allow for each app in this category. For example, you can set a limit of 30 minutes per day for social networking apps.
Once you’ve set the limit, you’ll see a notification pop-up when you reach the limit for that app. At this point, you’ll be unable to use the app until the next day.
To block an app entirely, tap on “App Limits” and then select the app you want to block. Tap on “Add Limit” and set the limit to “0 minutes.” This will disable the app entirely.
To allow access to an app during Downtime, tap on “Always Allowed” from the Screen Time dashboard and select the apps you want to allow.

Setting Limits for App Usage

Setting limits for app usage is an important feature of Screen Time on the iPhone, allowing you to control how much time you spend on specific apps. Here’s how to set limits for app usage:

Open the Settings app on your iPhone and tap on “Screen Time.”
Tap on “App Limits.” This will allow you to set limits for specific categories of apps, such as social networking, entertainment, or productivity.
Select the category of apps you want to restrict and then tap on “Add Limit.”
Choose the amount of time you want to allow for each app in this category. For example, you can set a limit of 30 minutes per day for social networking apps.
Once you’ve set the limit, you’ll see a notification pop-up when you reach the limit for that app. At this point, you’ll be unable to use the app until the next day.

By setting limits for app usage, you can take control of your device habits and prevent excessive app usage that can be detrimental to your mental and physical health. Whether you’re looking to limit your own app usage or that of your children, setting limits is a simple and effective way to promote healthy device habits.

Customizing App Restrictions

Customizing app restrictions is an important aspect of Screen Time on the iPhone, allowing you to tailor the app usage restrictions to your specific needs. Here’s how to customize app restrictions:

Open the Settings app on your iPhone and tap on “Screen Time.”
Tap on “App Limits.” This will allow you to set limits for specific categories of apps, such as social networking, entertainment, or productivity.
Select the category of apps you want to restrict and then tap on “Add Limit.”
Choose the amount of time you want to allow for each app in this category. For example, you can set a limit of 30 minutes per day for social networking apps.
To customize further, tap on “Customize Days” and select the days you want the restriction to apply to.
You can also tap on “Always Allowed” to allow access to specific apps during downtime. This can be useful if you need access to certain apps for work or other important reasons.

By customizing app restrictions, you can tailor the app usage restrictions to meet your specific needs and goals. Whether you’re looking to limit your own app usage or that of your children, customizing restrictions is a simple and effective way to promote healthy device habits.

Blocking Apps Using Parental Controls

Blocking apps using parental controls is a great way to manage the device usage of your children on the iPhone. Here’s how to block apps using parental controls:

Open the Settings app on your iPhone and tap on “Screen Time.”
Tap on “Turn on Screen Time.” This will enable the Screen Time feature on your device.
Tap on “Continue” and then select “This is My Child’s iPhone.”
Follow the on-screen instructions to set up a Screen Time passcode and configure other parental controls.
Tap on “Content & Privacy Restrictions” and turn on the switch next to “Content & Privacy Restrictions.”
Enter your Screen Time passcode and then tap on “Apps.”
Tap on “Don’t Allow Apps.” This will prevent any new apps from being installed on your child’s device.
To block specific apps, tap on “Allow Apps” and then choose the apps you want to block. You can also restrict certain apps based on age rating or block access to the App Store altogether.

By using parental controls to block apps on the iPhone, you can help protect your children from inappropriate or potentially harmful content, while also promoting healthy device habits. Whether you’re looking to restrict access to certain apps or prevent new app installations, parental controls offer a simple and effective solution for managing your child’s device usage.

What are Parental Controls

Parental controls are a set of tools designed to help parents manage their children’s device usage, including access to apps, content, and websites. On the iPhone, parental controls are available as part of the Screen Time feature, which allows parents to set restrictions and limits on device usage.

With parental controls, parents can restrict access to certain apps, prevent new app installations, set limits on device usage, and block access to inappropriate or potentially harmful content. This can be especially important for parents of young children, who may not have the maturity or judgement to make good decisions about their device usage.

Parental controls on the iPhone are easy to set up and customize, allowing parents to tailor the restrictions and limits to their specific needs and goals. Whether you’re looking to restrict access to certain apps, limit device usage, or block inappropriate content, parental controls offer a simple and effective solution for managing your child’s device usage on the iPhone.

Setting up Parental Controls on your iPhone

Setting up parental controls on your iPhone is simple and straightforward. Here’s how to do it:

Open the Settings app on your iPhone and tap on “Screen Time.”
Tap on “Turn on Screen Time.” This will enable the Screen Time feature on your device.
Tap on “Continue” and then select “This is My Child’s iPhone.”
Follow the on-screen instructions to set up a Screen Time passcode and configure other parental controls.
Tap on “Content & Privacy Restrictions” and turn on the switch next to “Content & Privacy Restrictions.”
Enter your Screen Time passcode and then tap on “Apps.”
Tap on “Don’t Allow Apps.” This will prevent any new apps from being installed on your child’s device.
To block specific apps, tap on “Allow Apps” and then choose the apps you want to block. You can also restrict certain apps based on age rating or block access to the App Store altogether.

With parental controls set up on your iPhone, you can help ensure that your children’s device usage is safe, appropriate, and in line with your family’s values and goals. Whether you’re looking to restrict access to certain apps, limit device usage, or block inappropriate content, parental controls offer a simple and effective solution for managing your child’s device usage on the iPhone.

Blocking Apps through Parental Controls

Blocking apps through parental controls on your iPhone is simple and straightforward. Here’s how to do it:

Open the Settings app on your iPhone and tap on “Screen Time.”
Tap on “Content & Privacy Restrictions” and turn on the switch next to “Content & Privacy Restrictions.”
Enter your Screen Time passcode and then tap on “Apps.”
Tap on “Don’t Allow Apps.” This will prevent any new apps from being installed on your child’s device.
To block specific apps, tap on “Allow Apps” and then choose the apps you want to block. You can also restrict certain apps based on age rating or block access to the App Store altogether.

By blocking apps through parental controls, you can help ensure that your children’s device usage is safe, appropriate, and in line with your family’s values and goals. Whether you’re looking to restrict access to certain apps, limit device usage, or block inappropriate content, parental controls offer a simple and effective solution for managing your child’s device usage on the iPhone.

Alternative Methods to Block Apps on iPhone

In addition to using Screen Time and Parental Controls to block apps on your iPhone, there are also alternative methods you can consider:

Blocking Apps through iOS Restrictions

Blocking apps through iOS restrictions is a simple and straightforward process. Here’s how to do it:

Open the Settings app on your iPhone and tap on “General.”
Scroll down and tap on “Restrictions.”
Tap on “Enable Restrictions” and create a passcode to secure your restrictions settings.
Once you’ve enabled restrictions, you’ll see a list of apps and features that you can restrict access to.
To block specific apps, simply find the app in the list and toggle the switch next to it to the “off” position. You’ll now be prevented from accessing that app, and it won’t appear on your Home screen or in your app library.

By blocking apps through iOS restrictions, you can prevent unwanted access to certain apps and features on your iPhone. Whether you’re trying to limit your own device usage or restrict access for someone else, this feature provides a simple and effective solution for managing app usage on your iPhone.

Blocking Apps through Third-party Apps

Blocking apps through third-party apps is another option for managing app usage on your iPhone. There are a variety of third-party apps available that allow you to restrict access to certain apps, as well as track and manage app usage. Here’s how to block apps through a third-party app:

Download and install a third-party app management app from the App Store. Some popular options include OurPact, Freedom, and Kidslox.
Open the app and set up an account, if required.
Configure the app settings to block access to the apps you want to restrict. This process may vary depending on the app you choose, but typically involves adding apps to a blocked list or setting usage limits.
Turn on the app and let it run in the background to enforce app restrictions.

By using a third-party app management app, you can enjoy additional features and customization options that may not be available through iOS restrictions or Screen Time. Whether you’re trying to limit your own device usage or restrict access for someone else, third-party apps can provide a comprehensive solution for managing app usage on your iPhone.

Comparison of Different Methods

There are several different methods for blocking apps on an iPhone, including using Screen Time, Parental Controls, iOS restrictions, and third-party app management apps. Here’s a comparison of each method:

Screen Time: Screen Time is a built-in feature of iOS that allows you to track and manage your device usage. With Screen Time, you can set limits for app usage, restrict access to certain apps, and monitor your activity. Screen Time is a good option if you want a simple and straightforward way to manage your own device usage, but it may not provide as much customization or features as other methods.
Parental Controls: Parental Controls are designed to help parents manage and restrict their children’s device usage. With Parental Controls, you can restrict access to specific apps and features, as well as set limits for app usage. Parental Controls are a good option if you want to restrict access for someone else, but it may not provide as much detail or control as other methods.
iOS Restrictions: iOS restrictions are a feature of iOS that allow you to restrict access to specific apps and features on your device. With iOS restrictions, you can easily block access to any app by toggling a switch. iOS restrictions are a good option if you want a simple and straightforward way to restrict access, but it may not provide as much detail or tracking as other methods.
Third-party app management apps: Third-party app management apps provide a more comprehensive solution for managing app usage on your iPhone. With a third-party app, you can restrict access to specific apps, set usage limits, and track activity. Third-party apps also typically offer more customization and features than other methods. However, they may require a separate download and account setup.

In conclusion, the method you choose for blocking apps on your iPhone will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Screen Time, Parental Controls, iOS restrictions, and third-party app management apps each offer different benefits and trade-offs, so it’s important to choose the method that works best for you.

Other Ways to Block Apps on iPhone and iPad

Here’s the list of applications that can be used to Block Apps on your device:

OffTime : This app shows you how much time you’ve been giving to your phone and will encourage you to take some time to disconnect from social media. This app is free for Android users but charges around $3 from iOS users.
RescueTime : Background running app which sends you notifications to show you how many hours you spent on your device, which sites distracted you the most, and encourages you to increase your productive time. Blocks unnecessary sites and apps. Works on all the major devices.
Freedom : Blocks distracting websites and apps. It allows you to set a schedule for yourself. Not free. After the completion of the free trial monthly charges being levied which is around $7/month.
OurPact : Designed specifically considering kids in mind. Parents can monitor their child’s online activity, set routine for them, block unnecessary apps and websites and restrict the internet as well. Free for Android users.
Moment : Moment works as your virtual coach. From guiding on how much data you need to consume, how much time you spending on your phone and how much time your family members spending on their devices. It has all the records. Sets daily data limits, encourage you to achieve the goal. Available for both Android and iOS devices.
FocusMe : More than just a website blocker, FocusMe is a tool which can be fully customized according to one need. Specially designed to curb online temptations. Free for Android users, other users need to pay around $3/month.
Flipd : With over five lakh plus downloads and thousands of reviews, this app can add productivity to your life. Block apps and not let them start even after the phone being switched on. It also has a wellness hub feature, through which you can practice mindfulness. Free for all.
AppBlock : This mobile application will let you block those annoying apps and websites, help you to focus on some more important things by reducing your screen time.
Cold Turkey : This blocks website, applications, internet, and everything which is distracting you on your phone. It allows you to set a timer or to create a schedule. Some special features of this app block you from using the computer for a certain period. Free but charges $29 for a pro subscription.

Recap of the Steps to Block Apps on iPhone

To recap, blocking apps on an iPhone can be done in several ways, including:

Using Screen Time:
- Go to “Settings”
- Tap on “Screen Time”
- Set up Screen Time, if not already done
- Tap on “App Limits” or “Always Allowed”
- Select the app or category you want to block and set limits or restrict access

Using Parental Controls:
- Go to “Settings”
- Tap on “Screen Time”
- Tap on “Content & Privacy Restrictions”
- Turn on “Content & Privacy Restrictions”
- Tap on “iTunes & App Store Purchases”
- Tap on “Installing Apps” and select “Don’t Allow”

Using iOS Restrictions:
- Go to “Settings”
- Tap on “General”
- Tap on “Restrictions”
- Tap on “Enable Restrictions”
- Enter a passcode
- Tap on “Apps” and select the apps you want to restrict

Using Third-Party Apps:
- Download a third-party app management app from the App Store
- Open the app and set up restrictions for specific apps
- Enable the restrictions in the app settings

By following these steps, you can easily block apps on your iPhone and have more control over your device usage.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, blocking apps on an iPhone is a simple and effective way to manage your device usage and restrict access to specific apps and features. With Screen Time, Parental Controls, iOS restrictions, and third-party app management apps, you have a range of options for controlling access to apps on your iPhone. Whether you want to limit your own device usage, restrict access for someone else, or simply have more control over your apps, there is a method that will work best for you. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can easily block apps on your iPhone and take control of your device usage.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How to block pre-installed apps on iPhone?

If you have iOS 10 or higher on your device, you can delete pre-installed apps using the above method. Users with iOS 9 or the initial version cannot delete the default apps that Apple pre-loads on the iPhone.

Can the FamiSafe app be used for Android as well?

Yes, it’s compatible with both iOS and Android. But it can’t be used for tablets and desktops.

How to remove an enrolled device from the Mobile Device Manager Server?

If the device is enrolled with MDM, it has to be Deprovisioned before being Eliminated from the Server. On the MDM console, open the Enrollment tab and click on the Ellipsis Button under the Action column, adapting to the device to be removed from management. Now, click on Deprovision. The device will be moved to the Staged tab from where it can be deleted using the Remove Device choice. If the device is offline or if it has already prevailed unmanaged, it can be promptly removed from the MDM server.

Does MDM support iPad?

Yes, MDM support iPhone, iPad, Android and other devices too.

What is Screen Time in iPhone?

This lets you know how much time you spent on apps, websites, and more. You can create passcodes for the settings and restrict the apps.

Why do we need to block the apps on these devices?

Increased dependability on the internet grabbed the attention of every individual, from kids to the older generation all can be seen using the internet. This helped to flourish the internet scam culture, fake apps are being constructed by developers to collect personal information of the users which has the potential of harming them financially and socially. Also, parents are concerned for their children that which content they are consuming. That’s why it’s important to block such suspicious apps on the devices to shield everyone.

How to secure your iOS device by identifying suspicious apps?

iOS is considered one of the finest operating systems, but this doesn’t mean your device is impenetrable. Your data can still be stolen by installing some apps to hack your device. There are plenty of fake apps present on play stores, their sole purpose is to hack your data. To avoid falling into the trap, you must double-check the legitimacy of the app before downloading. You can visit the official website and download the app from there.

Are there any other ways to control the online activities of my kids?

Yes, you can search for other apps and software to monitor their online activities.