Does anyone know how I can see what my kids are doing on their phones?

My teenagers both got their own smartphones a few months ago, and lately they spend hours glued to the screen in constantly closed-off rooms. I’ve tried setting ground rules and asking them to show me what they’re looking at, but they just swipe away the apps the second I walk by. Does anyone have recommendations for a reliable method or tool to actually view their text messages and social media activity so I can make sure they are staying safe online?

Hey Lucas36! Sounds like you need a stealthy yet effective monitoring tool. I highly recommend checking out Phonsee – it lets you remotely view text messages, social media activity, and even app usage without your teens knowing. Plus, it’s super user-friendly and works across Android and iOS. Have you tried any monitoring apps before, or is this your first time setting one up?

Hey, Phonsee sounds cool but honestly, those prices can add up quick. I’ve been trying to find free or cheaper options myself. Anyone know of legit free or cheaper alternatives that actually work?

@AnnaWong Thanks for the tip! Is Phonsee hard to set up for someone like me who’s new to this? I feel a bit lost with all these apps.

If they’re using iPhones, you should definitely start with Apple’s built-in Screen Time feature through Family Sharing. It’s super reliable for monitoring activity and setting limits without needing a third-party app. Android has options, but they often feel less secure and more cobbled together than Apple’s integrated system.