How to Choose Safe Apps and Games for Your Children

Phones and tablets are now part of children's lives, and while they offer educational and entertainment opportunities, they carry risks if left unmanaged. Your job as a parent is to choose appropriate content and set up a safe environment. Here is a practical guide to help.

1. Check the Age Rating

Most apps and games carry an age rating that indicates who they suit. Make it your starting point, but do not rely on it alone; a rating does not reveal everything, such as ads or open chat.

2. Try the App Yourself First

Before handing it to your child, use it for a few minutes. Note what kind of ads appear, whether it asks for personal information, and whether it includes chat with strangers. Your direct experience is more honest than any description.

3. Watch for Ads and In-App Purchases

Many free children's games are packed with ads, and some push purchases that are one tap away. To avoid surprises:

• Require a password for any purchase.
• Prefer ad-free apps, or ones with a simple paid version.
• Check your bills regularly.

4. Use Parental Control Tools

Modern phone systems include built-in tools that let you:

• Set a daily usage limit.
• Restrict which apps the child can access.
• Block new downloads without your approval.
• Filter content by age.

Spend the time to set these up once, and you save yourself exhausting daily supervision.

5. Prefer Games That Work Offline

Offline games reduce your child's exposure to ads and conversations with strangers, and give you more control over the experience.

6. Make It a Conversation

Instead of banning outright, talk to your child about why you chose one app over another. Teaching them to recognize good content builds an awareness that protects them even when you are not around.

Signs an App Is Not Suitable for Children

• Frequent or inappropriate ads.
• Requests for personal information or photos.
• Open chat with unknown users.
• Constant pressure to buy.

Summary

Your children's digital safety starts with conscious choices: check the rating, try it yourself, set up parental controls, and be wary of ads and purchases. And alongside the technical setup, conversation and involvement remain your most important tools by far.