This article will cover:

• Set time limits that stick
• Talk it out, tailor your approach
• Screen time for different age groups
• Use a parental control app
• Balance, not battles

Set time limits that stick

Want to make sure the Wi-Fi goes to sleep when your kids do? Most modern routers let you set time limits for internet access. So you can schedule offline hours, like during homework, dinner, or bedtime, so devices disconnect automatically. Just look for “Parental Controls” or “Access Scheduling” in your router’s settings.

It’s a simple way to build healthy habits without constant reminders. If you’re on a Vodafone nbn® or 5G home internet plan and have our latest Vodafone Super Wi-Fi Modem, you can use the My Internet app (Android / iOS) to set parental controls.

Create screen-free zones and smarter schedules

Managing screen time isn’t just about limits – it’s about balance. One way to build healthier habits is by setting screen-free zones and times. That could mean no devices at the dinner table, during homework, or in bedrooms overnight.

Most devices and routers let you schedule downtime automatically.

• On iPhones, head to Settings > Screen Time > Downtime to set hours when only essential apps are available.
• On Android phones, head to Settings > Digital Wellbeing > Bedtime mode.
• With Google Family Link, select your child’s profile, then head to Screentime > Downtime.

Want to track how it’s going? Use built-in screen time reports to track your kids’ internet usage and spot patterns. It’s a simple way to stay informed and adjust limits as needed.

Talk it out, tailor your approach

Tech rules work best when kids understand the “why.” Instead of just setting limits, talk to your kids about screen time – what’s healthy, what’s not, and how to make smart choices online.

Younger kids might need more structure and supervision, while teens may benefit from more freedom and responsibility. Tailor your approach to their age and maturity and involve them in setting boundaries. It builds trust and helps them learn to manage their own time.

Screen time for different age groups

Every child is different, and so is their relationship with screens. What works for a six-year-old won’t always suit a teenager. That’s why it helps to tailor your approach based on age, maturity, and how your child uses their devices.

National guidelines for screen time

Thanks to the Australian Institute of Family Studies, we now have official guidelines on the max screen time young people should get on a daily basis. These guidelines recommend:

• Children under 2 years: no screen time
• Children ages 2–5: no more than one hour per day
• Young people ages 5–17: no more than two hours of sedentary recreational screen time per day (not including schoolwork).

Keeping these guidelines in mind, here are ways that you can help your family manage their screen time:

Young kids (ages 3–7)

At this age, kids are just starting to explore the digital world.

• Keep screen time short and supervised.
• Use kid-friendly apps and platforms like YouTube Kids.
• Set clear rules around when and where screens are allowed, like no devices during meals or before bed.
• Use parental controls to block content and limit access.

Tweens (ages 8–12)

Kids in this age group are more independent but still need guidance.

• Encourage a mix of screen time – educational, creative, and fun.
• Use screen time reports to check usage and talk about balance.
• Set time limits and use downtime features to reinforce routines.
• Start conversations about online safety, privacy, and respectful behaviour.

Teens (ages 13+)

Teens use screens for everything – school, socialising, entertainment.

• Involve them in setting boundaries and choosing apps.
• Focus on building digital responsibility rather than strict control.
• Use tools like Family Link to monitor usage but also encourage open conversations.
• Talk about social media, mental health, and how to spot misinformation.

Use a parental control app

Parental control apps are your digital toolkit. They help you monitor screen time, block inappropriate content, and even track location if needed. Popular options are Qustodio, Net Nanny, and Google Family Link.

You can:

• set daily screen time limits;
• block specific apps or websites;
• get activity reports; and
• pause internet access instantly.

Parental controls on the My Internet Connect app

If you’re on a Vodafone home internet plan and have our latest Vodafone Super Wi-Fi Modem, you can use the My Internet Connect app (Android / iOS) to set parental controls.

Set screentime limits

• Open the My Internet Connect app and click Settings.
• Under User Management, select Parental Control.
• Select Add New Schedule.
• Select the User(s) or Device(s) you want to control.
• Enter a Schedule Name and then set the Schedule Time and Days.
• Tap Save at the top of the screen then OK.
• You can pause/resume a Schedule at any time by toggling the switch on/off.

URL blocking

URL blocking gives you the power to manage what’s accessible on your home network. Block social media during homework hours, restrict access to adult content, or filter out distracting gaming sites – so your kids stay safe, focused, and screen-smart.

1. Open your web browser and go to 192.168.1.1.
2. Log in using your Login Password (unless it’s been changed, this can be found on the barcode sticker on the bottom of the modem).
3. In the left pane, click on Network.
4. Under the Firewall section, select URL Blocking.
5. By default, the Action dropdown should be set to Block.
6. In the URL field, enter the website address you want to block (e.g; youtube.com). We recommend also adding the www. version of the URL to be successful.
7. Click Save Settings at the bottom of the page.

Note: Some websites use multiple domains or subdomains, so you may need to block more than one URL to fully restrict access.

How to block apps and websites on an iPhone

If your child uses an iPhone or iPad, Apple’s built-in tools make it easy to manage access. Just head to Settings > Screen Time, then tap Content & Privacy Restrictions.

From there, you can:

• block specific apps;
• restrict web content; and
• set age-appropriate limits for downloads and media.

It’s all password-protected, so only you can make changes.

Remove a supervised member from Google Family Link

If your child is growing up and ready for more independence online, you might want to remove them from supervision in Google Family Link.

1. Open the Family Link app
2. Select your child’s profile
3. Tap Manage Settings > Account Info
4. Choose Stop supervision and follow the prompts

Keep in mind: once supervision ends, your child’s account becomes fully independent. So just make sure they’re ready for the responsibility.

Balance, not battles

Managing screen time isn’t about cutting kids off – it’s about creating balance. With the right tools and a thoughtful approach, you can build a digital environment that supports your family’s wellbeing, learning, and connection.

Start with the basics:

• set clear boundaries;
• use built-in parental controls;
• create screen-free zones that encourage time together.

Then go deeper:

• monitor usage;
• schedule downtime;
• and tailor your approach to each child’s age and needs.

Whether it’s guiding a young child through safe apps or helping a teen build digital responsibility, your support makes all the difference.

And don’t forget the conversations. Talking openly about screen time helps kids understand the “why” behind the rules and gives them the confidence to make smart choices on their own.