Below is a breakdown of options for protecting and monitoring your child's Mac or Chromebook usage within Hong Kong, covering software, router controls, and family agreements.

Installed Software on the Device

Both macOS and Chromebooks have built-in parental control features that are highly recommended as a first step.

• For Chromebook: The best and most seamless option is Google Family Link which will work only for the student personal Google account not the school configured account. With Family Link, you can:

  • Set screen time limits and daily schedules.

  • Approve or block app downloads from the Google Play Store.

  • Manage content filters for websites and services like Chrome and YouTube.

  • See your child's location if their device is with them.

  • It is a free service, making it an excellent starting point.

• For Mac: Apple's Screen Time is the native parental control system. It offers a wide range of features:

  • Set limits for specific apps and app categories.

  • Schedule "Downtime" where only apps you allow are available.

  • Filter web content to restrict adult websites.

  • Set communication limits on calls and messages.

  • Prevent purchases from the App Store and iTunes Store.

  • This is also a free, built-in feature that can be managed from your own Apple device.

• Third-Party Software: If the built-in options don't meet your needs, several commercial parental control solutions are available in Hong Kong. Options like:

  
  

  

  
  
  
  

Controls via the Home Router

Your home router can act as a gatekeeper for all devices connected to your home network, regardless of the operating system.

Many modern routers from brands popular in Hong Kong, such as TP-Link, Netgear Orbi, and ASUS (normally subscription based), have built-in parental control features. These can be configured through the router's web interface or a companion mobile app. Common features include:

• Content Filtering: Blocking access to specific websites or categories of websites (e.g., adult content, social media, gaming).

• Time Scheduling: Setting specific times of day or night when devices can or cannot access the internet. This is useful for enforcing "lights-out" or homework hours.

• Device Management: Creating profiles for each family member and assigning their devices to that profile, so the rules apply consistently across all their devices.

  
  

Hong Kong Internet Service Providers (ISPs): Some ISPs in Hong Kong, like HKBN and CSL, offer their own parental control services. These can be a convenient option as they are often pre-configured and managed through an app provided by the ISP. You should check with your specific provider to see what services they offer and if they are included with your plan or require an additional fee.

Family Agreements & Expectations

Technology controls are most effective when they are part of a broader family discussion and agreement.

• Establish Clear Expectations: Create a family agreement that outlines rules for device usage. This should be a collaborative process where you and your child discuss and agree on the terms. Key points to include are:

  
  

  • Laptop Usage at home: Outline is it purely for educational purposes or can it be used for social use. Outline where it must be used, our recommendation is always in an open space where an adult can check in on what the child is doing.

  • Screen-Free Zones: Designate areas or times where devices are not allowed, such as the dining table, bedrooms after a certain hour, or during family outings.

  • Internet Etiquette: Discuss topics like online bullying, sharing personal information, and respecting others' privacy.

  • Consequences: Clearly define the consequences for breaking the agreement.

    
    

• Digital Citizenship: Emphasise that what they post online is permanent and that they have a responsibility to be a positive presence.

• Lead by Example: Parents should model the behaviour they want to see. This means putting away your own phone during family time and adhering to the same rules you set for your children.

  
  

By combining these three approaches—device-level software, router-based controls, and a foundation of clear communication—you can create a robust and healthy digital environment for your child.