How to set device limits without confiscating your kid's phone

Screen time is arguably the hottest parenting topic of the past 20 years. A pandemic that closed schools and caused kids to be home at all times forced the topic into the spotlight even further. It's natural for parents to freak out every time a new study about children and devices comes out, but here's our advice: Don't. The evidence between screen time and cognitive or behavior development isn't super strong. Plus, parents cannot blame themselves for handing a kid a tablet when it's time for a Zoom meeting, dinner prep, or a nap, especially when it's high-quality content like an educational show. Read more...More about Tech, Parenting, Cybersecurity, Internet Safety, and Mashable Shopping IMAGE: Mashable OUR PICK Qustodio From Instagram and YouTube monitoring to a panic button for kids away from home, Qustodio covers just about everything. Free version: Yes Five devices: $54.95/year 10 devices: $96.95/year 15 devices: $137.95/month IMAGE: BEST FOR LARGE FAMILIES Kaspersky Safe Kids Parents juggling multiple schedules will like how Kaspersky keeps close tabs on kids away from home. Free version: Yes Unlimited devices with Premium: $14.99/month IMAGE: Mashable BEST COMBO WITH ANTIVIRUS Norton 360 Deluxe Get webcam protection, malware threat alerts, and reliable parental controls in Norton's sweet package deal. Norton Family Premier (without antivirus): $49.99/month Five devices with Norton 360 Delxue: $99.99/year IMAGE: Mashable BEST FOR IPHONES Net Nanny Net Nanny/Zift is a rare Apple-friendly choice and one of the most approachable apps on the kid's end. One desktop: $39.99/year Five devices: $54.99/year 20 devices: $89.99/year IMAGE: BEST FOR CHROMEBOOKS Circle with Disney Instead of downloading software, Circle is a WiFi-based monitoring solution with a well-designed app. Free version: Yes Circle subscription: $9.99/month Circle Home Plus (hardware device): $129 IMAGE: Mashable BUDGET PICK Mobicip If you can deal with a few quirks, Mobicip has decently customizable web settings at competitive pricing. Free version: No Five devices: $4.15/month 10 devices: $7.50/month 15 devices: $10.41/month