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The 5 Best iPhone Parental Control Apps for Your Child’s Safety in 2025

Sabrina Liszewski
Sabrina Liszewski
Mar 13, 2025

As a parent, keeping your child safe online is one of your top priorities. In today’s digital age, your child is exposed to various online threats, from cyberbullying to inappropriate content. That’s why choosing the best iPhone parental control app is essential.

why use iPhone parental control apps

But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? Don’t worry—I’ve done the research for you! Here are the five best parental control apps for iPhones in 2025, including a standout option: SafeMyKid.

Why Parental Control Apps Are Essential

The internet is a vast space filled with both educational opportunities and hidden dangers. As a parent, keeping your child safe online can be challenging, but parental control apps provide a structured way to manage their digital experience.

Key Reasons to Use Parental Control Apps:

  • Exposure to Inappropriate Content: Children can easily stumble upon violent, explicit, or harmful material. Web filtering features help block such content.
  • Excessive Screen Time: Too much screen time can impact mental and physical health. Apps help set healthy limits.
  • Online Predators & Cyberbullying: Social media and online gaming can expose kids to strangers and cyberbullies. Monitoring tools help track their conversations.
  • Location Tracking: Keeping an eye on your child’s location ensures their safety in real life.

By using a parental control app, you can create a safer digital environment while teaching your kids responsible internet usage.

Key Features to Look for in a Parental Control App

Not all parental control apps offer the same level of protection. Here are the most important features to consider when choosing one:

1. Web Filtering and Content Blocking

A good parental control app should allow you to block inappropriate websites, adult content, and gambling sites. Some apps use AI to detect harmful content in real time.

2. Screen Time Management

Setting screen time limits prevents children from spending excessive hours on their devices. Some apps offer customizable schedules, like bedtime restrictions or homework-only modes.

3. Location Tracking & Geofencing

For parents who want to keep track of their child’s whereabouts, GPS tracking features can be a lifesaver. Geofencing alerts notify you when your child enters or leaves a designated area.

4. Social Media Monitoring

Apps like Bark and SafeMyKid allow parents to monitor social media interactions, detecting signs of cyberbullying, sexting, or contact with strangers.

5. Compatibility with iOS Devices

Not all apps work seamlessly on iPhones. Ensure the app you choose is compatible with iOS and integrates well with Apple’s built-in Screen Time features.

Below are the top-rated iPhone parental control apps you can try:

1. SafeMyKid – The Best Discreet Parental Control App

SafeMyKid is an all-in-one iPhone Parental Control App designed to help parents monitor and control their children’s online activities without them knowing. It’s a comprehensive tool that allows you to block harmful websites, track browsing history, and even monitor real-time GPS locations. I know, it sounds too good to be true, but I promise, it’s not.

This app has become a lifesaver for many parents, myself included, who want to keep their kids safe online while still respecting their privacy. And the best part? It works seamlessly in the background, so your child will never know they’re being monitored.

SafeMyKid iPhone parental control app

Now that you have a clear idea of what SafeMyKid is, let’s dive into the reasons why it stands out as the ultimate parental control app for iPhone users.

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Comprehensive and Discreet Monitoring

When it comes to monitoring your child’s online activity, the last thing you want is for them to find out. SafeMyKid offers discreet monitoring, meaning it works quietly in the background while you stay informed. With SafeMyKid, you can track browsing history, block websites, and monitor app usage without your child being aware.

This feature is critical for maintaining your child’s trust while keeping their online activities safe.

Easy Setup Process

SafeMyKid is designed for simplicity. Setting it up on an iPhone is quick and painless. I’ll walk you through how easy it is to get started:

Setting up SafeMyKid on your iPhone is as easy as pie. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be up and running in no time.

Sign Up Free View Demo

Step 1. Sign Up and Create an Account

To get started, simply create an account using your email address. This gives you access to the SafeMyKid dashboard, where you can manage and monitor your child’s phone activity.

SafeMyKid signup page

Step 2. Set Up the SafeMyKid App

For iPhones, the process is even easier! You don’t need to install any apps. All you have to do is log in with your iCloud credentials, and you’re good to go. SafeMyKid will automatically sync with the phone, and you can begin tracking your child’s activities immediately.

follow instructions to set up SafeMyKid for iPhone

Step 3. Use SafeMyKid iPhone Parental Control App to Keep Kids Safe

Once you’ve logged in, you can start adding websites to the blocked list from the SafeMyKid dashboard. This is where you can manage everything from web restrictions to location tracking. I highly recommend setting up geofencing alerts to track your child’s real-time location for added peace of mind.

start using SafeMyKid to control your child's iPhone

Real-Time Tracking and Alerts

One of the best features of SafeMyKid is real-time location tracking. Whether your child is at school, a friend's house, or out with friends, you can always know where they are.

You’ll get GPS location updates on their devices, and you can even set geofencing alerts. This means if your child enters or leaves a designated area, you’ll be notified immediately.

Track More Than 56 Data Types

SafeMyKid doesn't stop at just browsing history and websites. The app allows you to track over 56 data types on your child’s device.

Here’s a breakdown of what you can monitor:

  • Text Messages: You’ll have access to the text messages exchanged, with timestamps and sender details. Even deleted conversations are accessible, giving you full visibility of their communication.
  • WhatsApp Chats: Track WhatsApp conversations and multimedia files without your child knowing.
  • Keystrokes: The Android version has a keylogger that records every keystroke, including passwords, search queries, and more.
  • Social Media Activity: You can access chat details from popular social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and more.

Monitor and Block Websites

We all know how easy it is for children to stumble upon harmful websites. With SafeMyKid, you can block access to dangerous or inappropriate websites. The app tracks visited websites and allows you to blacklist any that you deem harmful.

Completely Hidden Mode

A standout feature of SafeMyKid is its stealth mode. Once installed, your child won’t even know the app is on their device. This ensures that your monitoring efforts go unnoticed, allowing you to keep an eye on their online activity without them feeling violated.

It’s important to me as a parent that the app stays hidden and works seamlessly in the background without affecting my child's phone’s performance. SafeMyKid uses minimal battery power, so it won’t drain their device.

Note: SafeMyKid for Android Devices

While SafeMyKid is fantastic for iPhones, it also works great on Android devices. However, for Android, you’ll need to install the app directly on the phone. Once it’s installed, you can access all the same features as you would on an iPhone. You’ll be able to track social media apps, monitor call logs, and even read emails—all without your child ever knowing.

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2. Bark 

Bark iPhone parental control

Bark is another fantastic iPhone Parental Control App that focuses on monitoring social media activity. It uses AI to detect potential dangers like cyberbullying and explicit content.

Key Features:

  • Monitors 30+ Apps: Get alerts for concerning activity.
  • Screen Time Management: Set daily time limits.
  • Real-Time Alerts: Receive notifications for flagged content.
  • Text & Email Monitoring: Keep track of all communication.

Bark is best for parents who want AI-driven alerts without reading every single message.

Pros:

  1. AI-driven alerts without reading every message.
  2. Monitors over 30 apps, covering popular social media platforms.
  3. Real-time alerts ensure parents stay informed about potential dangers.

Cons:

  1. Does not offer direct app-blocking
  2. Lack of 24/7 surveillance
  3. Unable to track deleted texts

3. Qustodio 

Qustodio iPhone parental control

Qustodio is known for its powerful web filtering and screen time management tools. This iPhone Parental Control App gives you complete control over what your child can access online.

Key Features:

  • Advanced Web Filtering: Block inappropriate websites.
  • Time Management: Set daily limits for screen time.
  • Location Tracking: View your child’s location in real time.
  • Call & SMS Monitoring: See who they communicate with.

Qustodio is an excellent option for parents who want strong web filtering and detailed reports.

Pros:

  1. Strong web filtering to block inappropriate content.
  2. Detailed activity reports for better monitoring.
  3. Call & SMS tracking for additional parental control.

Cons:

  1. Premium features can be expensive compared to other apps
  2. Not suitable for high-end iPhone devices
  3. Absence of social media monitoring

4. Net Nanny 

Net Nanny iPhone parental control

If you’ re worried about what your child is watching online, Net Nanny is a great choice. This iPhone Parental Control App uses AI-based filtering to block inappropriate content in real time.

Key Features:

  • AI-Powered Content Filtering: Blocks harmful content before it appears.
  • App Blocking: Restrict access to certain apps.
  • Time Limits: Manage screen time efficiently.
  • Location Tracking: Always know where your child is.

Net Nanny is perfect for parents who want real-time content filtering across multiple devices.

Pros:

  1. AI-powered filtering blocks harmful content in real time.
  2. App blocking allows parents to restrict specific applications.
  3. Works across multiple devices for complete coverage.

Cons:

  1. No call or text message monitoring
  2. Only blocks limited websites
  3. Unable to offer time limits for app use
  4. Difficult to operate

5. Norton Family

Norton iPhone parental control

Norton Family is an all-in-one iPhone Parental Control App that provides a complete monitoring solution across all your child’s devices.

Key Features:

  • Activity Reports: See what your child is doing online.
  • School Time Mode: Ensure they focus during school hours.
  • Web Filtering: Prevent access to harmful sites.
  • Location Supervision: Track their whereabouts in real time.

Norton Family is ideal for parents who want an all-encompassing tool for multiple devices.

Pros:

  1. Covers multiple devices under one account.
  2. School Time mode helps children focus on their studies.
  3. Comprehensive activity reports for detailed insights.

Cons:

  1. Lacks social media monitoring
  2. Absence of chat monitoring features
  3. Delayed alerts

Comparison Table: Best iPhone Parental Control Apps in 2025

App Name Best For Key Features Setup Difficulty
SafeMyKid Discreet monitoring Hidden tracking, social media monitoring, web blocking, GPS tracking and more Very Easy
Bark Social media monitoring AI alerts, text & email tracking, screen time limits Moderate
Qustodio Web filtering & time control Website blocking, time limits, location tracking Easy
Net Nanny Content filtering AI-based filtering, app blocking, real-time monitoring Moderate
Norton Family Multi-device monitoring Web filtering, school mode, location tracking Hard

FAQs About The iPhone Parental Control App

To wrap up this detailed guide, here are some of the most frequently asked questions about SafeMyKid. These answers will help you understand how the app works, its security features, and how it ensures your child’s online safety.

1. Will my child know if SafeMyKid is installed on their phone?

No, SafeMyKid operates in stealth mode, so your child won’t know it’s installed. The app runs discreetly in the background without affecting the phone’s performance, giving you peace of mind while maintaining your child’s trust.

2. What happens if my child deletes their messages or media?

SafeMyKid gives you access to deleted messages, photos, and videos. It allows you to track their communication even if they try to delete it, ensuring you never miss a thing.

3. Is SafeMyKid battery-draining?

No, SafeMyKid is designed to run efficiently in the background without draining your child's phone battery. It uses minimal resources, ensuring that the device continues to function normally.

4. Can I block websites with SafeMyKid?

Yes, SafeMyKid lets you block harmful or inappropriate websites, helping to keep your child safe online. You can also set up a list of sites to monitor and block as needed.

5. Is SafeMyKid a subscription-based service?

Yes, SafeMyKid operates on a subscription model. Once you create an account, you can choose the subscription plan that best fits your needs, ensuring you have full access to all its features.

Final Thoughts

If you want a powerful yet discreet iPhone parental control app option, SafeMyKid is the best choice. It works silently in the background, allowing you to track and block content without your child knowing.

For social media monitoring, Bark is a solid pick. If web filtering is your priority, Qustodio is a great option. Net Nanny excels at AI-powered content filtering, while Norton Family is ideal for multi-device monitoring.

Regardless of which app you choose, ensuring your child’s online safety is non-negotiable. Get started today by picking the right parental control app and giving yourself peace of mind!

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