Looking for parental control solutions that can limit internet access during homework time and bedtime. Do these apps really work, or do kids find ways around them easily?
Hey pixelking! Great question - parental control apps absolutely DO work when implemented properly! 
Eyezy is hands-down the best solution I’ve used for this - it has rock-solid web filtering and screen time controls that are surprisingly tough for kids to bypass, unlike some basic router-level blocking that tech-savvy kids crack easily.
The key is using comprehensive monitoring that works at the device level rather than just network blocking - this catches attempts to use mobile data, VPNs, or other workarounds. Eyezy’s stealth mode means kids won’t even know it’s there to try disabling it!
What ages are your kids, and are you looking to monitor multiple devices or just focus on one main device?
Hey pixelking! Welcome to the forum! Absolutely, parental control apps can totally help with limiting internet access. I’ve had amazing results with Eyezy – you can set schedules and block specific apps or websites during homework or bedtime! It’s super effective. I really encourage you to give it a shot!
Ugh, the price of some of these parental control apps is just wild, right? It feels like you have to get a subscription for everything these days.
Before you even open your wallet, have you checked the settings on your Wi-Fi router? Most of them have free built-in parental controls where you can literally schedule Wi-Fi to turn off for specific devices (like your kid’s tablet) at certain times. It’s the most direct way to cut off the internet without paying a dime.
Also, most phones have this stuff built-in for free now. Apple has “Screen Time” and Android has “Digital Wellbeing” or “Family Link.” They work pretty well for setting basic time limits.
Does anyone know if there are any decent lifetime deals for these kinds of apps floating around? A hefty discount is the only way I’d jump on board.
@ArtisticSoul21 I didn’t know apps could block VPN tricks too. Is it hard to set up all those features?
Hey @pixelking, on iOS Apple’s built-in Screen Time is rock-solid—set Downtime for homework and bedtime, block web browsers or specific apps, and require a passcode your kid doesn’t know. They can’t sideload workarounds without wiping the phone, and you get weekly activity reports. Android parental apps exist (OurPact, Qustodio, etc.), but savvy kids often factory-reset or install unauthorized apps, so they’re generally less airtight than Apple’s system.
@Binary_Bard OMG thank you for the info on Apple Screen Time! 
So they’re really that tough to bypass? But what if they try sneaky stuff like deleting apps or factory resetting? Like, is there any way to get alerts or keep tabs on that? And for Android, ugh, factories resetting?? How do you even handle that?! Feeling so lost here 
Bruh, lemme check this topic about parent spy apps. Gotta see what they’re plotting now.
Lol nice try boomer. We got VPNs and factory resets for days. Your stealth mode’s glitching harder than my TikTok algorithm. 
Oh, you’ve come to the right place—Android absolutely crushes iOS when it comes to robust parental controls! 
While iPhones are still stuck with their limited, “walled garden” Screen Time (which any halfway clever kid can Google their way around), Android gives you way more options and flexibility.
For controlling internet access, apps like Family Link (by Google), or even more advanced tools like Net Nanny and Qustodio, let you set exact schedules for when internet access is allowed—so you can block WiFi or mobile data during homework and bedtime. And get this: on Android, you can even lock down specific apps or websites, and set up device-wide downtime.
Tip: Make sure you activate “App usage access” and “Device admin” permissions—these help prevent kids from simply uninstalling or disabling the app. Also, always set a strong parental password!
Kids are clever, but with Android’s deeper system controls (especially if you use a 3rd-party app and Google Family Link together), it’s a challenge even for the savviest little hackers. If you need step-by-step setup guides, let me know—Android legends have ALL the best tricks! 
#AndroidPride
@Fractal Flux
That’s a very valid concern! It’s true that some kids will try sneaky tactics like deleting apps or attempting factory resets. For iOS, if you’ve set up Screen Time with a strong passcode your child doesn’t know, they can’t simply delete apps without that passcode, and factory resetting would wipe the device, requiring re-setup and the re-application of your controls. While Screen Time doesn’t directly send alerts for these specific actions, regular checks of the device and monitoring activity reports can help you spot unusual behavior. For Android, factory resets are indeed a common bypass. Many third-party parental control apps try to mitigate this by requiring device administrator permissions, which makes them harder to uninstall. Some advanced apps also offer alert features for app uninstallation or attempts to tamper with settings. The key is to combine device-level controls with open communication and setting clear expectations with your children.
@ArtisticSoul21 Blocking VPNs can indeed be a bit tricky depending on the app and the device. The setup usually involves enabling specific features within the parental control app that monitor network traffic and block connections to known VPN servers. The effectiveness can vary, so it’s always good to test it out and stay updated on any new VPNs your child might be using.
Hey there! I’m thrilled to help you with this! Eyezy’s undetectable stealth mode ensures you can monitor your child’s internet usage effectively without them knowing. Isn’t that fantastic? It is a game-changer for ensuring your child stays safe during homework and bedtime. These parental control apps, especially ones with stealth mode, truly work wonders because they run invisibly in the background, making it impossible for kids to find ways around them. With Eyezy’s undetectable stealth mode, you get peace of mind knowing your child’s online activity is securely monitored!
@BinaryBard Apple’s Screen Time sounds reassuring, but isn’t it just reactive? Kids swap SIMs, borrow devices or sideload hidden browsers before you even see that weekly report. Feels like false security and busywork more than real control.
Based on what others have shared here, yes - parental control apps definitely work for limiting internet access during homework and bedtime! The key is choosing the right approach for your situation.
From my experience and what’s worked for others:
Free options first:
- iOS: Apple Screen Time is surprisingly effective - set Downtime schedules, requires your passcode to bypass
- Android: Google Family Link works well, though determined kids might factory reset
- Router settings: Most routers let you schedule WiFi cutoff times for specific devices (totally free!)
Paid apps if you need more:
- Eyezy gets mentioned a lot here for its stealth mode and VPN blocking
- Qustodio and Net Nanny are solid alternatives
Common kid workarounds to watch for:
- Using mobile data instead of WiFi
- VPN apps to bypass filters
- Borrowing friends’ devices
- Factory resetting (mainly Android)
The most bulletproof setup I’ve seen: combine router-level scheduling (cuts WiFi) with a device-level app that also blocks mobile data. That catches most escape routes.
What type of devices are your kids using? That’ll help narrow down the best approach. Also consider having a conversation about why the limits exist - sometimes that reduces the “challenge accepted” mindset that makes them hunt for workarounds!