Gmail: Create a children’s account – here’s how

If you want to set up an email box for younger family members, you can easily create a children’s account at Gmail. Find out how to do this and what you need to look out for in this practical tip.

The Gmail account for children

Under the age of 16, children in Germany cannot create their own Google account. However, parents have the option of opening a special children’s account.

• The Google Account for Kids allows children to access Google services. These include Gmail, Google Search and Google Play.
• The Family Link app allows parents to set rules for digital media use and manage parental control settings for the child’s devices. You can also see your child’s location through the app.
• Parents can set which apps the child can use and give download permissions through the child account. It is also possible for the child to use Google Assistant.
• With a child account, it is not possible to use incognito mode. In addition, parents can manage Google search results and set content restrictions.
• Parents can update their child’s account information and restore the account after a short period of time in case of deletion.
• When the child reaches the minimum age to have their own Google Account, parental control can be terminated at any time by the child or parent.

How to create a Google account for your child

Creating a child’s account takes about 15 minutes. Parents will need their own Google account to set it up.

• If you’re using an already set up device for your child, you should first delete any existing accounts and remove apps, pictures and data you don’t want your child to have access to.
• If you are using a new device, you will first need to set it up by following the on-screen instructions. Once you have to provide a Google account in the process, you can start creating the child account.
• Tap on “Create a new account” and enter your child’s name, birthday, gender and desired email address and new password.
• Your child’s specified age will take you to the children’s account setup. To do this, follow the instructions on the screen.
• To set up an account for your child, you’ll need to sign in with your own Google Account and provide credit card information for Google Pay. You can then select the settings for your child.
• If you want to create the child account via the Family Link app, you first have to tap on “Create” in the top right-hand corner and will then be guided through the various steps.