What to Do If Your Child Is Concealing Their Text Messages

Mother holding out phone to child

Is your child acting fishy lately when texting? Maybe they suddenly stop when you enter the room or take pains to conceal their screen. Perhaps during your latest phone check, you noticed a suspicious lack of messages. But how do kids hide texts? Read on to learn ways your child might conceal their messages, why they might do it, and how you can make sure they’re safe. 

How kids hide text messages

To help you figure out if your child might be concealing their texts from you, here are some of the methods they may use: 

Invisible Ink 

Sending a text with “Invisible Ink” on iMessage makes it blurry until the recipient taps on it. However, it’s not disappearing ink — the message will remain visible after it’s been revealed. 

Rename a contact

If your child’s main goal is to conceal who they’re messaging, they could rename the contact to avoid catching your attention. For example, a secret significant other could instead be labeled with the name of their best friend. 

Turn off message previews

Message previews are the short lines of text that appear on a phone notification. Turning off message previews is a great way to prevent people from peeping them on the lock screen. 

Turn off alerts 

To avoid raising suspicion, your kid might turn off text alerts or hide alerts for a specific message thread.  

Delete text messages

If your child wants to keep texts from prying eyes, they may delete messages or entire conversation threads.

Third-party apps

There are third-party messaging apps available that provide privacy measures not available on the native messaging programs for iOS and Android devices. 

We don’t advocate breaking into or spying on your child’s phone, but if you notice that your child is using these extra security features, consider asking them about it and periodically looking through some of their conversations together.

Here are a few ways your child might use a third-party app to conceal their messages: 

  • Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode: While iMessage and Android Messages don’t allow users to lock the app using a passcode, Face ID, or Touch ID, other Third-Party messaging apps such as WhatsApp and Signal do. 
  • Disappearing messages: Some apps, like WhatsApp and Snapchat, let users send messages that disappear after being read. 

Private messaging apps

Secret Messenger and other similar apps are specifically designed to help users conceal their messages. 

Why kids conceal text messages 

If you think your child is hiding texts, it’s important not to jump to conclusions. 

While there could be a concerning reason, such as hiding the use of drugs and alcohol, there are just as many innocent possibilities. It could be they have a new, positive romantic relationship but just aren’t ready to tell you yet. Or it might be as simple as the desire for privacy fueled by an age-appropriate need for independence. 

Giving kids privacy and keeping them safe is a balancing act, and only you know what’s best for your family.

Solutions for parents 

Although your child hiding messages from you could turn out to be no big deal, secretive behavior is always worth investigating. Here are some things you can do if you suspect your child is concealing texts: 

  • Talk to your child. The very first thing you should do if you think your child is hiding something is to have a conversation with them. Calmly explain what you’ve noticed (sticking to the observable facts) and why this concerns you. Then, give your child a chance to explain what’s going on. Lean on the mutual trust you’ve built, and be clear your goal is to make sure they’re safe. 
  • Online safety check-ins. Make it a habit to regularly sit with your child and look at the content on their phone, including text messages. Reiterate that these check-ins aren’t meant to punish them, but rather to make sure they’re staying safe and have space to discuss any concerns. 
  • Check the deleted messages folder on iCloud. Nothing ever truly disappears on the internet. If you’re concerned your kid may be deleting messages, you can check the deleted messages folder on their iCloud account. It’s important to be transparent with your child if you take this route, though. Explain why you’re checking their deleted messages and what you’re looking for. 
  • Require permission before downloading apps. To prevent your child from using a third-party app to hide messages, use parental controls to require a passcode before they can download new apps to their device. 
  • Monitoring. BrightCanary uses AI technology to monitor your child’s texts and alert you if there’s a problem. Our app even displays deleted text messages, so you don't have to worry about missing anything.

The bottom line 

If you suspect your child is concealing texts from you, it’s important to follow up and take action to make sure they’re safe. 

row of different emojis on blue background

Bruh, I’m 🔥 AF. Say what? 

You know you should monitor your child’s texts, but actually understanding their messages is a whole other story. Like previous generations of kids, Gen Z and Gen Alpha use slang to put their own spin on the way they communicate. But with social media contributing to the rapid spread of slang and emoji meaning in text messages, it can be extra hard for modern parents to keep up. So, what are the kids saying these days? Read on for a guide to some of the most common slang and emoji meanings you might find in your child’s texts, including ones that could mean they’re up to trouble. 

Drugs, alcohol, and partying 

If you’re concerned your child might be drinking or doing drugs, here are some emojis and slang you’ll want to know:

Emojis

🤑👑💰💵🔌: Dealer advertisement

🍃🔥🌴🌲🍀😮💨: Marijuana

🍄: Hallucinogenic mushrooms 

💊: Illicit use of prescription drugs

🔵🅿️🍌: Percocet or Oxycodone

🍫🚌: Xanax

A-🚆: Adderall

🔮💙💎🧪: Meth

🤎🐉: Heroin

❄️🌨️☃️💎🎱🔑😛🐡: Cocaine

♥️⚡️❌🍬: MDMA and Molly

🍇💜🍼: Cough syrup

Slang

  • Cart: Cartridge for a vaporizer.
  • Dabbing:  Inhaling concentrated cannabis oil by dropping some on a hot surface and letting it vaporize.
  • Gas: Marijuana
  • Hulk:  A 2-mg generic benzodiazepine bar.
  • Pen:  Vape for weed or tobacco; uses cartridges.
  • Plug: Drug dealer or connection.
  • School bus:  A 2-mg Xanax bar.
  • Special K: Ketamine
  • Snow: Cocaine
  • Turnt: Having a good time, often while using drugs or alcohol.
  • Yayo: Cocaine
  • Zaza or za: Marijuana

@bright_canary

How many emojis did you already know? What emojis should we cover next? digitalparenting parentingtips parenting

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Sexual overtones, dating, and relationships

Sexting is on the rise among kids and can come with big consequences. Here’s what you need to know to catch emoji innuendos on your child’s device. Don't miss our full list of teen dating slang.

Emojis

🍆: Penis

🍑: Butt

🥵: "Hot" in a sexual sense.

🚛:  “Dump truck,” which refers to a large and/or shapely bottom.

🌮: Vagina

🧠: Oral sex

💦: Ejaculation

👅:  May indicate sexual activity, especially oral sex.

🤤: Desiring someone sexually (often used in response to nudes).

🍒: Breasts/testicles/virginity

🍝: Represents nudes, which are often called “noods.”

🔨: Used to refer to sexual activity.

🌽: Represents "porn," especially on TikTok.

Slang

  • Rizz: Charisma or charm. 
  • Gyat: (Rhymes with “squat.”) This compliment stands for “Girl your a** thicc.” 
  • Thicc: (Sometimes pronounced "Tick") Used to refer to a woman with a full-figured body. Thicc is often used as a compliment, but may also be considered offensive.
  • Body count: The number of people someone has slept with.

General emojis and slang 

Here are some additional emojis and slang to be aware of: 

Emojis

🥴:  Used to express drunkenness, sexual arousal, or a grimace.

🙃:  Used to express annoyance.

🤡:  Used when someone is acting foolish (like a clown).

👻:  Indicates being “ghosted” (dumped or cut off from contact with no explanation).

🧢:  Symbolizes a lie, also known as a “cap.”

🥶: Often used in response to a snarky comment (as in, "That was cold").

💯: Used to give a stamp of approval.

🐍: Represents a snake or untrustworthy person.

☠️: Means “I’m dead,” as in they laughed so hard it killed them.

🔥: This symbol can be used to describe something very good or to describe when someone looks hot or sexy. It can also mean “lit,” as in intoxicated.

👀: Means one is feeling gossipy, as in “tell me more.”

Slang

  • AF: As F***; used for emphasis, as in “I’m tired AF.”
  • Beige: Dull, run-of-the-mill, or safe.
  • Bet: An affirmation or approval, along the lines of "Cool."
  • Bruh: Stands for “bro,” but can be used to address someone of any gender. 
  • Do it for the plot: Doing something challenging, risky, etc. for the memories or the story. (A new version of YOLO.)
  • Drip: Your look or style, especially if it's fashionable or attractive.
  • Hits different: Something so great or awesome that it moves you on a totally different level.
  • Mid: "Low quality" or "average." 
  • No cap: No lie.
  • Pick-me girl or pick-me energy: An insult meaning someone who’s a try-hard, loud and obnoxious, attention seeking, etc.
  • Snatched: Especially good or fierce, particularly in reference to one's appearance.
  • Sus: Short for “suspicious.”
  • Vanilla girl: An aspirational lifestyle representing the intersection of comfort and luxury. Vanilla girls lean toward minimalistic, often wearing shades of white and cream. 
  • W in the chat: Used to hype someone up. 

Monitoring your child’s texts

Now that you know what to look for, make sure you’re on top of monitoring your child’s device. Regularly sit down and look at their messages with them. Consider signing up for a child safety app like BrightCanary, which gives you insights into what they message (including deleted texts on the Text Message Plus plan). Set clear expectations for texting behavior and to put it in writing with a digital device contract

In short

Kid’s texts can be filled with hard-to-decipher slang and secret codes. But with open communication, monitoring, and staying up on trends, you can spot trouble in your child’s texts so you can address the issue together.

Teen boy leaning back at desk with hands behind head looking at Reddit

To say Reddit is huge is an understatement. Just about any Google search these days is bound to turn up at least one hit from the site. Last year alone, Reddit had 850 million monthly active users, putting it ahead of Snapchat, Pinterest, and LinkedIn. But is Reddit safe for kids? If your child wants to browse this popular platform, read on to hear our take. 

What is Reddit?

Reddit’s slogan is “Dive into anything,” and that certainly holds true. It’s an enormous social network made up of smaller communities centered around various interests, hobbies, and passions. These smaller communities are known as subreddits, and the range of topics they cover is truly mind-boggling, such as movies, vintage recipes, and relationship advice.

Users have a front page, which features posts from all the subreddits they follow. They can also browse r/all, which displays popular posts from different subreddits. 

What are Reddit’s age restrictions?

The age minimum for creating a Reddit account is 13. However, the signup process doesn’t require any proof of age. In addition, while an account is needed to post, comment, or vote, a person can read posts without an account. 

Is Reddit moderated? 

Reddit does have content guidelines which apply to the site as a whole. In addition, each subreddit has its own rules. These rules and guidelines are enforced by volunteer moderators, as well as admins employed by Reddit. 

This level of moderation does help, but the sheer volume of posts means things inevitably slip through the cracks. Additionally, moderators are only looking for people who violate the guidelines, not if something is unsuitable for children. 

Is Reddit safe for kids? 

The answer to this is a hard no. Let’s break down why we feel so strongly that Reddit isn’t safe for kids:

  • Problematic content. Because of the wide variety of subreddits and lack of safeguards, children can stumble upon just about anything on the site. Adult-only subreddits, extremist and violent content, and subreddits promoting hate, like misogyny and fat-shaming, are just a handful of the problematic things your child can easily come across on the site. While some subreddits are age-restricted, it’s easy to sidestep the minimum age restrictions when a child creates their account.
  • Harassment. Unlike other social media sites where your child can create a private account and curate who they’re friends with, Reddit is open to anyone. That means users can harass your child in the comments section and in their inbox.
  • Dangerous trends. There have been a number of Reddit controversies in recent years surrounding dangerous internet trends. One is doxxing, or publicly sharing someone’s personal information. In recent years, Reddit has prohibited doxxing, and users who violate this policy are banned from the site. But there are still reports of it still happening, and once the information is out there, much of the damage has been done, even if the perpetrator is subsequently banned.  
  • Direct messaging. Flimsy age restrictions, the lack of parental controls, and questionable communities make direct messaging especially problematic on Reddit. It’s possible to block people and prevent strangers from messaging your child, but it’s not the default setting for minors.
  • Lackluster privacy and security settings. While Reddit does have some privacy and security settings available for users, like keeping their account out of Google search results, the options overall leave something to be desired. 
  • No parental controls. Reddit has no parental controls. As in, zero. This makes them an outlier among social media sites and provides parents with few options for safeguarding their children. 

The bottom line  

Even though Reddit’s minimum age is 13, that doesn’t mean your child should use it. Due to the lack of parental controls and the high likelihood of being exposed to problematic communities and troubling content, Reddit is not safe for kids.

girl checking phone in car

To monitor or not to monitor: that is the eternal question of parenting in the digital age. As your child embarks on their social media life (or even if they’re already deep in it), it’s worth weighing the pros and cons of parents monitoring social media access for kids. Here’s how you can formulate a plan to keep them safe online and decide how much you want to supervise their online activities.

What is social media monitoring? 

Social media monitoring is anything you do to supervise your child’s activity on social networks, such as Instagram and TikTok. Monitoring efforts can take several forms, including following your child on social media, regular tech check-ins, parental controls, and using a monitoring service. The most effective approach combines several monitoring methods based on what works best for your family. 

Pros of social media monitoring

Experts broadly recommend parents take an active role in their children’s social media use, with the American Psychological Association (APA) advising that parents monitor social media accounts for kids under 15.

Here are some of the benefits of monitoring your child’s social media: 

Helps keep your child safe

Social media brings with it a whole host of risks for kids, including predators, cyberbullying, scams, anxiety, and exposure to dangerous trends. Monitoring your child’s social media activity means you’ll be more likely to spot red flags so you can address the issue head-on. 

Encourages active conversations about internet safety and responsibility

One of the jobs of modern parenting is teaching our children how to use social media and the internet safely and responsibly. Monitoring your child’s social media creates natural opportunities for learning and guidance. 

Keeps you informed about your child’s interests and influences

Who your children follow and how they engage with others on social media is an important window into their lives. Monitoring their accounts lets you keep up on their interests and influences, including harmful ones.

A way to monitor their mental health

Teens are notoriously private. As parents, it can feel like they’ve closed themselves off from us completely. While there’s no substitute for talking with your child, paying attention to what they post, share, and like on social media provides valuable insight into the state of their mental health so you can step in if needed. 

Cons of social media monitoring

While the data is clear that monitoring children’s social media is a net positive, it’s worth being aware of the possible downsides so you can get ahead of them. 

Here are some of the potential drawbacks of monitoring your child’s social media: 

May make your child feel like they don’t have privacy

Especially as they get older, a sense of privacy and independence is important for children’s development. However, this must be balanced by a need for safety. 

The good news is, you can accomplish both. One key to this is being clear with your child that your goal is to keep them safe, not to get all up in their business unnecessarily. 

BrightCanary uses AI to scan your child’s social media and updates you about any red flags. It’s a great way to give them a measure of freedom because you can still keep an eye out for any concerns without combing over every single word they write online. 

Your child can sidestep monitoring tools, settings, and rules

It’s true that your child might try to hide some online activity from you. But the answer isn’t “ignore the problem” or “do nothing.” Any effort you make to monitor your child’s activity online, even if they are thwarted, is better than nothing. 

The key is to build in additional measures beyond simple monitoring. Make it clear that allowing you to monitor their accounts is a condition for using their device. Put it in writing with a digital device contract. Include clear consequences in the contract that kick in if you discover they’ve been sabotaging your efforts. 

Takeaway

While there are some potential cons to monitoring your child’s social media, the pros far outweigh any downsides. Experts suggest monitoring children’s social media accounts until at least the age of 15. Whether you have regular phone checks, use parental control settings, or use a child safety app like BrightCanary, what matters is that you’re taking an active role in keeping your child safe on social media.

child using device with nintendo switch parental controls

Is your kid as obsessed with Nintendo Switch as mine is? Maybe they’re always asking to play online with friends. If so, you might be wondering about Nintendo Switch parental controls and other measures to keep your child safe while playing. Read on to learn how to help your child enjoy Nintendo Switch safely.  

What is Nintendo Switch? 

Nintendo Switch is a three-in-one gaming system which has standard console play, portable console play, and the ability to turn into a handheld device. Switch users can also play together online. 

Here’s how it all breaks down:  

  • TV mode: Plug the Switch into your TV for standard console play. 
  • Handheld mode: The center portion of the Switch console can be lifted out, transforming it into a portable, handheld system.
  • Tabletop mode: The handheld device includes a stand to turn it into a freestanding screen. Auxiliary controllers can be connected for multiplayer fun on-the-go. 
  • Nintendo Switch Lite: This is a handheld-only version of the system. Unlike the regular Switch, the Switch Lite can’t be used as a tabletop console or connect to your TV. 
  • Nintendo Switch Online: Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription service that lets users play with friends, family, or other players from around the world. 

Nintendo Switch age range

Around 8 years old is a good benchmark to start playing Switch. However, it also depends on your child’s maturity level, ability to take care of an expensive system, and willingness to follow your safety rules — like only playing games you allow and not talking to strangers online. 

With that said, the Nintendo Switch has a wide variety of games appropriate for kids of all ages. (Adults, too! I think my husband is more obsessed with our Switch than our son.) Check the recommended age range before your child begins playing a new game, and consider playing it yourself or watching them play.

Nintendo Switch parental controls

Video games have come a long way since you were a kid. Fortunately, so have parental controls. To set parental controls, first download the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app to your mobile device. Follow the prompts to connect your account to your Switch. 

Here’s how to keep your kid safe on Nintendo Switch:

Parental controls on the Nintendo Switch device 

  • Play-time Limit: The player’s alerted when they reach their limit. You can also set it so the system automatically interrupts the game instead. 
  • Content Restriction Levels: You can choose from preset restriction levels (Child, Pre-Teen, or Teen), which limit the games your child can play based on their age range. 
  • Posting to Social Media: It’s pretty common to share gameplay screenshots and videos to social media. The Child and Pre-Teen restriction levels automatically restrict your child from posting to social media through their Switch. 
  • VR Mode (3D Visuals): Only the Child restriction level blocks the use of Virtual Reality. 

Parental controls for Nintendo Switch Online 

Nintendo Switch Online introduces additional concerns because of the ability to play and communicate with other users, including strangers

Luckily, you can use the Parental Controls app to safeguard this aspect as well. The Child and Pre-Teen content restriction levels prevent your kid from using voice chat and sending messages and images to other players. 

Customizing Nintendo Switch parental controls 

If you prefer not to rely on the preset age ranges, there are several customization options:

  • Custom settings: Here you can select an exact age for content restrictions and choose if your child can post to social media, use VR Mode, or communicate with others, regardless of their age.  
  • “Whitelisted” games: If your child wants to play a game that isn’t approved for their age level, you can “whitelist” it so that content restrictions don’t apply for that game. 
  • Parental Controls PIN: Parental controls apply to the entire system, not individual users. It’s best to set them with the youngest user in mind. If you have older players in the house, you can set a PIN which temporarily overrides Parental Controls. 

Staying informed 

Through the Parental Controls app, you can also: 

  • View which games each user has played and for how long
  • Get monthly play reports
  • Receive an alert if your child ignores their playtime alarm (busted!)

Other Nintendo Switch safety considerations

If your child gets really into a game, they might seek out more information on it, like watching video game playthroughs on YouTube or Googling game tips. These are fun, but could expose your kid to language and content you may not be comfortable with. 

Use BrightCanary to supervise your child’s activity on YouTube, Google, and other platforms. It’s the perfect companion to the Switch’s parental controls because it covers the other websites and apps your child is most likely to use.

The bottom line

Nintendo Switch is not without risk, but by utilizing parental controls and talking to your child about how to stay safe, it can be a fun gaming experience for kids. 

teen boy looking at phone in bed

Does the very idea that your teenager might be addicted to porn and that you might have to actually do something about it cause you to freeze in terror and want to run for the hills? Same! It’s a tricky subject. But information is the first step, and we’re here for you on that. Read on to learn more about teens addicted to porn, signs of porn addiction, and how you can talk to your teen about it. 

What is porn addiction?

The term addiction gets thrown around loosely in our culture. Think of how many times you’ve heard or uttered the phrase, “Oh my god, I’m so addicted to [fill in the blank].” 

True addiction, however, is more than just an intense interest in something. It’s a medical condition in which an individual feels compelled to continue their behavior, despite the fact that doing so might cause harm. 

Research suggests that addiction alters the body’s dopamine system and causes changes to the brain, activating regions associated with motivation and reward. 

Porn addiction isn’t officially recognized as a distinct disorder, and the diagnosis is highly controversial. Some experts point to issues with study design and bias, and others argue that the very idea of pornography addiction is rooted in outdated and potentially harmful cultural norms

However, it is well established that people can become addicted to behaviors, and other disorders related to excessive internet use are officially recognized. Add to that the fact that impulsivity is a common trait in children due to their developing brains, and it’s easy to see how pornography use could become problematic for teens — whether or not it rises to the level of actual addiction. 

How common is porn addiction in teens? 

Because there isn’t an established set of diagnostic criteria for porn addiction, it’s difficult to accurately quantify how common it is among teens. But available research estimates anywhere from around 3–10% of teens may be addicted to porn

Signs of porn addiction in teens

Because of a lack of standardized measures for porn addiction, parents should view any potential signs in context of your teen’s overall mental health. When deciding how to respond, it’s important to decide if the behavior reaches a level of concern, given your family’s values, and if the behavior causes significant negative impacts on other areas of your child’s life.  

That being said, here are some possible signs of porn addiction in teens:

  • Excessive internet use
  • Ignoring responsibilities to spend extended time on devices
  • Searching for niche/fetish content, which could be a sign of desensitization
  • Engaging in risky behavior to view pornography, such as doing so at school
  • Reporting feeling frustrated or ashamed after viewing porn but continuing to do so
  • Expressing a desire to stop using pornography but feeling unable to do so
  • Using pornography to cope with sadness, anxiety, insomnia, or other mental health issues

Why it matters

The internet has made pornography a commonplace and widely accepted part of mainstream culture, and it’s now cheap and easy for individuals to discreetly consume explicit content. Studies have shown that viewing porn is deeply entwined with people’s sense of their own sexuality and can shape expectations for future intimate relationships. 

In particular, pornography may create unrealistic beliefs and attitudes about sex and lead adolescents to expect that what they see in pornography will be reflected in future real-world sexual experiences. Research also suggests a link between consuming porn and an increase in acceptance and indifference to rape.  

How to talk to your teen about porn addiction

If you suspect your child’s relationship with pornography may be unhealthy, here are some tips for talking to them about it:

  • Avoid shaming: Shame around sex can be very detrimental. Look to set boundaries that avoid making your child feel bad about their past actions. 
  • Provide context: Rules absent of rationale do little to help your child make wise decisions for themselves later in life. Instead, explain why you’re worried about their pornography viewing. For example, you may be concerned that porn often doesn’t portray sexual relationships as equal partnerships or that it may feature themes like a lack of consent. 
  • Monitor their online use: Parents can use BrightCanary to set filters for explicit content and get alerts for adult content on social media, texts, Google searches, and YouTube. 
  • Consult a professional: As parents, it’s important to recognize when we need help. If you’ve maxed out your personal resources for addressing your child’s pornography use, it may be time to reach out to a professional. A counselor or therapist who specializes in adolescent sexuality and/or addiction can be a great resource. 

In short

While the concept of pornography addiction remains hotly debated among professionals, it’s nevertheless vital that parents help their teens develop a healthy relationship to sexuality. That includes monitoring their online activity for problematic consumption of adult material. 

Boy using phone with Apple Screen Time

Monitoring your child’s screen time is a vital part of modern parenthood. From keeping tabs on how long they spend on their device to what apps they use, Apple Screen Time is a great tool to set limits and restrict certain activities. Is Apple Screen Time not working for your family? Apple parental controls aren’t foolproof, and they can fall short when it comes to monitoring what your child does online. We break down common complaints and new ways to keep your kiddo safe online.

How does Apple Screen Time work? 

Apple Screen Time is a free, built-in tool on iOS devices, including iPhones and iPads. It’s helpful for managing several elements of your child’s screen time, including: 

  • Downtime, or the ability to block apps and notifications for certain periods of time
  • App limits
  • Communication limits and safety
  • Content and privacy restrictions

How do I manage my child’s screen time on my iPhone?

Apple’s Screen Time is simple and easy to use. You’ll need to set up Family Sharing first, which adds your child to your account. Go to Settings > Your name > Family Sharing, then follow the prompts to add your child as a family member. 

Accessing Screen Time on your child’s device

  • Once you’ve set up Family Sharing, go to Settings
  • Tap on Screen Time 
  • Go to Family, then tap your child’s name
  • Tap Turn on Screen Time and follow the prompts

You’ll want to set a Screen Time passcode so your child can’t easily get past their screen time limits. Under Screen Time, you’ll find settings to adjust your child’s downtime, app limits, and more. 

We recommend setting limits in conversation with your child, if appropriate. For example, explain why it’s important to limit screen time before bed. Using screens too close to bed negatively impacts sleep. Setting your child’s Downtime to start at least one hour prior to their bedtime helps them get the rest they need. 

Troubleshooting tips for Apple Screen Time 

Apple Screen Time not working? As great as this feature is, it has its fair share of bugs. Read on for troubleshooting tips. 

App limits aren’t working

If you notice the app limits you set for your child disappear after awhile, try these steps to get them to stick: 

  1. First, make sure all pictures and videos have synced with iCloud, or they’ll be lost in this process.
  2. Turn off Screen Time for your child’s device.
  3. Sign out of iCloud on both your device and your child’s. 
  4. Reset both devices by going to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings.
  5. Sign back in to iCloud on all devices.
  6. Turn Screen Time back on and reset limits.

My child found a way around Screen Time limits

Kids are smart. Where there’s a will, there’s often a way. Here are two ways parents have reported their child evading Screen Time limits and how to fix them: 

Clock set to 24-hour time

Screen Time doesn’t work when the phone is on a 24-hour clock. You can block your child from changing the clock format with these steps: 

  1. Make sure their device is updated to the latest iOS.
  2. Turn off Screen Time.
  3. Power the device off, then on.
  4. Set up Screen Time again.
  5. Go to Content & Privacy Restrictions.
  6. Click on Location Services.
  7. Scroll to the bottom and select System Services.
  8. Toggle off Setting Time Zone.

One More Minute  

When a device hits its Screen Time limit, kids can hit the One More Minute button three times, after which the limit is disabled for the day. This only happens when a user is over the age of 13, so if you have a younger child, make sure their age is set correctly on the device.

How do I stop my child from turning off Screen Time? 

In order to prevent your child from turning off Screen Time, you must set a Screen Time passcode. You’ll be prompted to do this when you first set up Family Sharing, but if you neglected to do it then, you can add one later.

Make sure to enter your Apple ID when prompted so you can use it to recover your password if you forget it. If you do forget your Screen Time password, simply click on Change Screen Time Passcode, then select Forgot Passcode and follow the prompts to reset it. 

The limitations of Apple Screen Time in content monitoring

While Apple Screen time is useful for setting limits, it falls short when it comes to providing parents with visibility into the content their child encounters online. For example, while Apple Screen Time allows you to limit how much time your child spends on Instagram, you won’t be able to supervise who they follow or what appears on their feed. 

Does Screen Time show me what my child does on social media?

Screen Time will only show you the amount of time your child spends on a particular social media app or website, but not the content they consume or the messages they send. For that level of monitoring, you’d need to look at their social feeds manually, or use a third-party child safety app like BrightCanary. 

Does Screen Time show text messages? 

Apple Screen Time shows you how much time your child spends on messages and the number of notifications they receive, but doesn’t provide any insight into the messages themselves. BrightCanary, on the other hand, can monitor the content of your child’s texts and show you what your child sends and receives.

BrightCanary: Comprehensive monitoring for Apple devices

BrightCanary is the perfect complement to Apple Screen Time and can help fill in critical gaps. This child safety app uses AI technology to monitor your child’s digital activity, such as their social media feeds, YouTube and Google searches, and text messages. In addition to regular reports, BrightCanary alerts you when your child encounters anything concerning, like inappropriate messages or explicit searches. 

The bottom line

To keep your child safe online, it’s important to combine the device usage limits of Apple’s Screen Time with content monitoring. BrightCanary is an essential tool for ensuring your child’s safety on Apple devices — download on the App Store to start your free trial. 

daughter looking at dad at kitchen table while holding phone

When weighing the pros and cons of getting their child a phone, some families just throw up their hands and declare they’re better off waiting until their child is in high school. Or college. Or never. 

Between including the perils of social media, the toxicity of group text threads, and the risk of online predators, abstaining from getting your child a phone is a perfectly valid choice. But when you throw things like two working parents, after school activities, and driver’s licenses into the mix, it can be easy to see why the no-phone route might not work for every family. 

If you’re looking to get your child their first device, but aren’t ready to do the smartphone thing just yet, it might be time to consider the humble flip phone for kids. 

Can you get a flip phone for kids?

Absolutely. Flip phones have been dubbed “dumb phones” in a nod to their more high-tech counterpart, the smartphone, but don’t write off these simple devices as mere relics of the past. 

The humble flip phone is making a comeback, meaning not only are there plenty of great options to choose from, but you may even be able to convince your kid that it’s actually cool. 

What age should a kid get a flip phone?

On average, kids get their first phone at 11.6 years old. But average may not be right for your child. When weighing what age your kid should get a phone, it’s important to consider your family’s unique circumstances. 

For example, if your child walks home from school by themselves or babysits younger siblings after school, they may need a phone sooner than a peer who gets picked up everyday by a parent. 

While it’s a good idea to delay giving kids devices, you should opt for whatever works best for your family’s needs.

Flip phone vs. smartphone: What is the best starter phone for a child?

Like the age question, the best starter phone for your child depends on a few factors. For younger kids, especially ones who aren’t ready for social media yet, a simple flip phone with only texting and calling capabilities is a great way to keep in touch with parents or use in an emergency. 

On the other hand, a teen who’s just started driving might need access to navigation apps, and you might want the ability to track them using GPS. Some families even choose to give their child a smartwatch as a starter device so they can text their parents and make short phone calls to approved contacts. 

You might decide what your child is ready for now, and then upgrade them as they age and their needs grow. This is a good strategy for gradually increasing their communication freedom and responsibility. 

Best flip phone for kids

With so many flip phones out there, it can be hard to know which one is right for your child. Here are a few solid options to choose from. 

Nokia 2780

nokia 2780 flip phone for kids

If you’re looking for a simple phone for your child, you can’t get much simpler than the Nokia 2780. While this phone is able to connect to the internet, you can turn off WiFi and mobile internet or call your provider to have the feature disabled. 

Jitterbug Flip 2

Jitterbug Flip 2 flip phone for kids

Although the Jitterbug Flip 2 is marketed for seniors, the GPS tracking, emergency response feature, and agents who can help look up directions make it a solid choice for kids as well. 

Tracfone TCL Flip 2

Tracfone TCL Flip 2 flip phone for kids

If you’re interested in a prepaid phone for your child, consider the Tracfone TCL Flip 2. Like the Nokia 2780, it stands out for its simplicity, but the camera quality is better on the Tracfone. 

Kyocera DuraXV Extreme

Kyocera DuraXV Extreme flip phone for kids

Although it’s on the pricier end, the Kyocera DuraXV Extreme is virtually indestructible. If your kid tends to drop their stuff, you might save yourself money in the long run by getting them a phone that won’t need replacing because they break it. 

The bottom line

Getting your child a phone can help with communication and safety. If they’re not ready for a smartphone yet (even one with BrightCanary monitoring), flip phones are a great, minimalist option for kids who are just getting introduced to the responsibilities of having their own device.

Family watching Bob's Burgers at home

While scrolling through the endless streaming options in search of a fun show to watch with your kids, you might have landed on Bob’s Burgers. At first glance, this cartoon about a family who runs a burger joint might seem like the perfect family viewing experience. But just because it’s animated, doesn’t mean it’s child-appropriate. So, is Bob’s Burgers for kids? Read on for our take on if this popular show is appropriate for children. 

What is Bob’s Burgers?

Bob’s Burgers is a satirical, animated sitcom from Fox centered around the Belcher family. Bob Belcher, a third-generation restaurateur, runs his burger shop along with the help of his wife and their three kids. 

Although initially met with mixed reviews, the show has since grown in popularity, earning multiple Emmys and being named one of the 60 greatest TV cartoons of all time by TV Guide. Bob’s Burgers is known for its irreverent humor and has been compared to the likes of The Simpsons. 

Bob’s Burgers age rating

Bob’s Burgers is rated TV-PG. According to the TV Parental Guidelines rating system, that rating indicates the show “contains material that parents may find unsuitable for younger children” and suggests that “many parents may want to watch it with their younger children.” Common Sense Media rates Bob’s Burgers as appropriate for ages 13+. 

Language in Bob’s Burgers

While not heavy on four-letter-words (although they do occasionally come up), the language in Bob’s Burgers isn’t squeaky clean. It includes frequent use of words like “damn,” “hell,” and “bastard,” along with crude references to body parts, fluids, and functions. 

Is there sex and nudity in Bob’s Burgers?

Any sex and nudity in Bob’s Burgers is fairly mild and mostly involves suggestion and innuendo. There are some dirty jokes, including use of the words penis and vagina, and in one episode, the Belchers visit a town full of old swingers. With the exception of a few instances of mooning where characters' bare butts are shown, other nudity is merely suggested. For example, season three features a nude beach, but it’s animated in such a way that, while people are naked, no explicit body parts are shown. 

Is there violence in Bob’s Burgers?

Aside from some pretty run-of-the-mill slapping and pushing between siblings, Bob’s Burgers doesn’t have violence to speak of. Any instances of blood and gore are done for comedic value and are not especially graphic. For example, in an episode where Bob gets stitches, blood splatters on the car window and Bob’s wife Linda’s face on the ride home, but it’s clearly meant for humor. Violent, adult topics are discussed, though, including cannibalism, murder, and jokes about child molestation. 

Are there negative messages in Bob’s Burgers?

If you’re looking for a family show filled with uplifting messages and heartwarming plots, Bob’s Burgers probably isn’t for you. The characters at times behave in ways some viewers might find negative, such as mocking each other and spreading rumors. The humor is often crass and includes jokes about sexual abuse, disabilities, and other sensitive topics. 

Final thoughts

Despite being animated, Bob’s Burgers is an adult show filled with irreverent humor and mature themes. While most teens should be able to grasp the satire, it’s not particularly appropriate for younger kids who may take the humor at face value.

If you notice your child looking up Bob’s Burgers clips on YouTube or social media, talk to them about their experience with the show. You can supervise your child’s online activity with BrightCanary. The app’s advanced technology scans your child’s activity and messages, alerting you when they encounter something concerning. While BrightCanary doesn’t yet cover streaming services where your child might encounter Bob’s Burgers, the app provides the most coverage across Apple devices and online platforms where children are most at risk. Download the app and get a free trial today.

You can supervise your child's online activity with BrightCanary. The app's advanced technology analyzes what your child sends and searches, including the names of shows on Netflix and any new media they're texting about with friends. Download the app and try it free today.

Child using tablet in bed

Sleep. That precious thing most parents don’t get enough of. Sleep can impact everything from brain performance, to mood, to mental and physical health. Our children aren’t getting enough sleep, either, and screens are one of the prime suspects. But how does screen time affect sleep?

To help you get a handle on how screen time may be messing with your child’s shut-eye, here’s a rundown on how screens impact sleep, the negative consequences of too little sleep, and what you can do to help your kid get more Zzzs. 

How much sleep do kids need by age?

You know sleep is important, but just how many hours are enough for your child? According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, here is how much sleep to aim for, based on your child’s age:

  • Under a year: 12–16 hours (including naps)
  • Ages 1-2 years: 11–14 hours (including naps)
  • Ages 3-5 years: 10–13 hours (including naps)
  • Age 6-12 years: 9–12 hours
  • Age 13-18 years: 8–10 hours

Negative impacts of poor sleep on kids 

Not getting enough sleep can impact kids in a variety of ways, including: 

Mental health issues

The relationship between mental health and sleep goes both ways. Not only can poor sleep lead to issues like depression and anxiety, but having mental health problems in the first place can also negatively impact sleep.  

Behavioral and emotional problems

Lack of sleep has been shown to cause impulsivity, stress, and aggressive behavior. It can also negatively impact your child’s ability to behave positively in social environments, like impairing their ability to solve conflict. 

Impaired brain function 

Studies have shown that children who get insufficient sleep also have impaired cognitive functions such as decision-making, working memory, and learning.

Impact on physical health

Poor sleep may contribute to growth issues and increased frequency of illnesses. 

Effects of screen time on kids’ sleep

Studies have overwhelmingly shown a negative association between screen use and sleep. Here are some of the ways that screen time may impact your child’s sleep: 

Mental health 

A study reported in the journal Child Psychiatry & Human Development found associations between electronic media use and anxiety and depression in young people, although the direction of causality in their study remains unclear. Given the way mental health and sleep are intertwined, it’s certainly worth taking notice. 

Displacement of time

You can’t sleep while scrolling on TikTok because you lose track of time. Similarly, many kids fail to get to sleep at a decent hour because they’re up too late on their devices. 

Difficulty falling and staying asleep

Screens, including their much-maligned blue light, can not only impact your child’s ability to fall asleep, but they can also negatively impact sleep quality. In addition, studies have shown that use of interactive screen-media, such as video games and mobile devices, can cause your child to wake up in the middle of the night. 

Screen addiction

Screen addiction is a non-diagnostic term that is thrown around perhaps a bit too casually. However, a newly recognized disorder known as Internet Gaming Disorder (ISG) has been linked to sleep problems

How to prevent the negative effects of screens on sleep

For parents worried about their children’s slumber, the good news is there are effective strategies to minimize the negative impact that screens have on your kid’s sleep. 

Some tips: 

  • Shut off notifications close to bedtime: Beyond the obvious problem of notifications waking up your child, even having them on before bed can contribute to sleep issues. Turning off notifications in the hour or so before bedtime will help your child wind down and shut out the day in preparation for climbing under the covers. 
  • Leave phones to charge overnight in another room: The mere presence of a device in the bedroom has been shown to negatively impact sleep, even if it’s not picked up during the night. Here are some ideas for storing your child’s phone at night.
  • Encourage screen-free activities before bed: Reading a book, listening to music, or playing a game are just a few of the many screen-free activities that can help your child wind down before bed. Consider getting the whole family in on the action to set a good example and encourage the new habit. 

The bottom line

Use of screens contributes to poor sleep, which can have negative consequences for your child. By encouraging healthier bedtime habits, you can minimize the impact screens have on your child’s sleep.  

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