How to Create a Gmail Account for a Child

There are a few “adulting” milestones for kids that are a big deal as they grow up and earn responsibility. Getting a library card in their name. Opening a bank account. And having their very own email address. You might be wondering how to create a Gmail account for a child and to keep them safe at the same time? Good news! Google can help for those who want to create a Gmail account for a child under age 13.

Option No. 1: Using Family Link to create a Gmail account for a child

One way to create a Gmail account for a child is to do so with the Family Link* app.

  1. Download Family Link
  2. Open the app
  3. Tap Create on the top right
  4. Follow the instructions provided on the screen to create the account
  5. Look for the confirmation on the screen

*You can also manage Android devices with Family Link.

Option No. 2: Create a Gmail account for a child on a new Android device

  1. When you turn on the phone for the first time, follow the set-up instructions
  2. Select Create a new account when you are asked to sign in with your Google account
  3. If you don’t see that as an option, choose More options first
  4. Complete the open fields with your child’s information
  5. Sign in with your own Google account
  6. Provide parental consent
  7. Choose the settings appropriate for your child

Option No. 3: Create a Gmail account on an Android device that’s already set up

Note: This will work on a device running Android 5.1 or higher. Instructions for adding and removing accounts on the device will vary. See your device’s help center for more information.
  1. Remove any existing accounts
  2. Delete anything on the device that you don’t want your child to use or see (apps, photos, etc.)
  3. Add a new account to the device.
  4. Select Create a new account when you are asked to sign in with your Google account
  5. If you don’t see that as an option, choose More options first
  6. Complete the open fields with your child’s information
  7. Sign in with your own Google account
  8. Provide parental consent
  9. Choose the settings appropriate for your child

Option No. 4: Create a Gmail account on a new Chromebook

Note: This will work on a new device running ChromeOS M71 or higher.
  1. Turn on the new device
  2. Complete the setup
  3. Select Create a new account when you are asked to sign in with your Google account
  4. If you don’t see that as an option, choose More options first
  5. Complete the open fields with your child’s information
  6. Sign in with your own Google account
  7. Provide parental consent
  8. Choose the settings appropriate for your child

Option No. 5: Create a Gmail account on all other devices

  1. Create a Google Account
  2. Complete the open fields with your child’s information
  3. Sign in with your own Google account
  4. Provide parental consent
  5. Choose the settings appropriate for your child

How to make changes to a child’s Gmail account

Once you create a Gmail account for a child, you have several choices in how and when you manage and make changes to the permissions on it. You can do this by adding supervision to an existing account or through Family Link. You’ll also want to note what happens when a child turns 13 to a Gmail account.

How Canopy works with a device that has a child’s Gmail account

Canopy works well with devices that have Gmail accounts on them that are associated with a child. It blocks explicit images and videos on those, allows you to manage app and website access, can deter sexting, and help you know where your kid is at all. times.

Try it for free today!

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