In this article, you'll learn how to start using Bark to block apps and sites, get alerts about potential issues, and more.
Setup checklist
1️⃣ Create your Bark account
Add your children.
They must be under 18 and your legal dependents.
Select the email, social media, and device(s) your children use.
Bark will walk you through setting them up. But don't worry — you can always add more devices later.
Add your credit card.
The Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) requires us to request consent to monitor your children's accounts and devices. We do this by verifying you're an adult with a credit card. You won't be billed until the end of your free trial. You can change your plan or cancel at any time.
Choose contacts for alerts.
Add yourself and the other people (like a spouse or family member) you'd like to receive Bark alerts.
2️⃣ Block or allow websites and apps
Install the Bark Kids app so you can set up screen time, web filtering, and location tracking on their devices.
Click on a guide below to get started:
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*Requires a Bark Home or router with Bark built- in.
3️⃣ Schedule screen time routines
Manage your rules & filters for each child under the Routines section:
We apply some basic protections based on your child's age.
Customize app and site blocking.
Set routines for app and site access.
If you prefer to keep it simple, just focus on managing the Default Rules routine.
Learn more about managing screen time routines.
4️⃣ Monitor their devices
Follow additional steps to start monitoring your child's devices and get alerts. Bark will scan texts, photos, videos, and many apps for potential issues.*
Click on a guide below to get started:
iOS devices: Install the Bark Desktop App on your home computer. Don't have a home computer? Use the Bark Sync!
Androids: Install the Bark for Kids app on their device.
Bark Phones: Make sure you've configured the phone.
Bark Watches: Make sure you've configured the watch.
Chromebooks: Install the Bark extensions on their Chrome browser.
*What exactly is monitored varies by device.
5️⃣ Connect social media platforms and apps for monitoring
You get an unlimited number of apps and devices you can monitor with a Premium subscription, meaning you can monitor unlimited Android devices, unlimited Facebook accounts, and more.
Connect accounts for each child:
Open up your parent app / dashboard.
Scroll down and tap +Add.
Select the child you're setting up.
Select Set up monitoring.
Select the platform you're setting up.
Choose your connection method. You or your child can connect accounts.
During the connection process, click Allow if prompted.
Repeat these steps for any other accounts and devices your child has.
6️⃣ Download the app for parents
Get quick access to your dashboard! Download the Bark app for parents and guardians.
7️⃣ Explore your dashboard!
You did it! You got through the first-time setup! You can add or remove accounts whenever you like at no additional cost.
Want comprehensive protection?
Upgrade insight to your child's world with the Bark Phone or Watch.
Block apps and sites on all devices on your home Wi-Fi with the Bark Home.