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Android · Android · 3 min · Updated September 2026

How does Family Link work?

Family Link is not an app your child “has”. It is Google’s way for you to manage their Google account: screen time, apps and purchases. You manage from your own phone — your child does not need to give you their password.

Phone and an hourglass

In short

You install Family Link on your phone, create or link your child’s Google account, and manage screen time, app downloads and Play purchases from there. It only works while they are signed in with that account. Start with what matters most — you do not need to turn everything on the first day.

  1. 1

    Get Family Link on your phone

    Search for Google Family Link in Play Store or the App Store. Your phone needs it — not necessarily your child’s. Sign in with the Google account that will be the parent in the family.

  2. 2

    Link your child’s Google account

    Follow Google’s steps to create a family group and the child’s account. They must be signed in with that account on their Android phone. If they already have an adult account, you can create a new one for under-18s.

  3. 3

    Set what you actually want to control

    Start with screen time, approval of new apps, and purchase approval. You do not need to turn everything on the first day. Test after a week: do you get requests when your child tries to install something new?

Family Link controls the Google account your child is signed in with. The Media Council for Children and Young People has guidance on children and digital media. The Parents’ Helpline at Børns Vilkår can help with the conversation: 35 55 55 57. Check regularly that your child still uses the right account — especially after starting school or getting a new phone.

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More help in Denmark

If you need someone to talk to, use these — they are free, and they take parents and children.

  • Parents’ Helpline 35 55 55 57

    Børns Vilkår. Free, anonymous counselling for parents and relatives in Denmark on 35 55 55 57. They take calls about screens, conflict and online problems.

  • Media Council for Children and Young People

    Public guidance in Denmark on children, young people and digital media. Advice on age, content and parent conversations — without sales language.

Sources