# ParentShield Child Safe SIM > Mobile Phone Network for Children --- ## Pages - [ParentShield Customer Reviews](https://parentshield.co.uk/testimonials/): Because we have been able to re-invent the mobile network, and build our features to be perfect for our users... - [ParentShield Voucher Codes - 2026](https://parentshield.co.uk/parentshield-voucher-codes/): Mobile SIM deals for children. Use a code from this official Child-Only Mobile Network for a special deal on your... - [Senior ParentShield](https://parentshield.co.uk/senior/): Stay in Touch Keep them safe on the phone FEATURES SIM-ONLY PRICES "Our Father was continually targeted on his phone... - [ParentShield Coverage Checker](https://parentshield.co.uk/coverage-checker/) - [Cookie Policy](https://parentshield.co.uk/cookie-policy/): About this cookie policy This Cookie Policy explains what cookies are and how we use them, the types of cookies... - [Meet the Mobile Network Designed for YOUR Child](https://parentshield.co.uk/meet-the-mobile-network-designed-for-your-child/): Their first mobile phone is a big step, and not just for them . You’re at the point of giving... - [Billing Information](https://parentshield.co.uk/billing-information/): Initial Order Billing When first ordering a SIM card, you will be given a couple of different options in regards... - [Names4Numbers Privacy Policy](https://parentshield.co.uk/names4numbers-privacy-policy/): Data entered into the “Names4Numbers” extension for Google Chrome is not sent to or collected by ParentShield. The names and... - [Congratulations! -Your School Referred You!](https://parentshield.co.uk/congratulations-your-school-referred-you/): How do I claim my free month? Simply click on the image above, or here, and it will take you to... - [Congratulations! - You've Been Referred](https://parentshield.co.uk/referred/): Why you’ll love ParentShield – find out in 60 Seconds How do I claim my free month? Simply click on... - [Home](https://parentshield.co.uk/): They Get a First Mobile You get Peace of Mind FEATURES SIM-ONLY PRICES Trustpilot "This is such a brilliant service...... - [Sitemap](https://parentshield.co.uk/sitemap/): As the ParentShield Website continues to grow we have decided to include a Sitemap! Alternatively, you can search for words... - [Child-Safe Mobile Network Features](https://parentshield.co.uk/features/): ParentShield is the only Mobile Network that is perfect for children. Because it is designed for children from the ground... - [Going Abroad with your ParentShield SIM](https://parentshield.co.uk/going-abroad/): Like most other mobile phone services, ParentShield SIM cards will work abroad if you are going on holiday, or your... - [School Mobile Phone Policies](https://parentshield.co.uk/for-schools/school-mobile-phone-policies/): ParentShield regularly surveys UK schools and the thousands of parents who use our Network to check what policies schools are... - [School Mobile Phone Policy Votes](https://parentshield.co.uk/for-schools/school-mobile-phone-policies/school-mobile-phone-policy-votes/): We are currently compiling Vote results from the final quarter survey of 17,000 schools in 2021. Check back here shortly... - [Bereavement](https://parentshield.co.uk/bereavement/): Let us know about a bereavement We’re really sorry for your loss. We understand this is a difficult time and... - [ParentShield Portal](https://parentshield.co.uk/parentshield-portal/): The ParentShield Portal is the secure access point for ParentShield Customers. From your ParentShield Portal you can control and examine... - [Unlimited Calls Home](https://parentshield.co.uk/features-unlimited-calls-home/): ParentShield users can always call and text home ParentShield is SIM cards have special ‘Home Numbers’ that can always be... - [Blocking iMessage Activation](https://parentshield.co.uk/blocking-imessage-activation/): iMessage provides secure, unmonitorable communications iMessages are like WhatsApp messages in that they are encrypted and impossible for us to... - [Rolling Monthly SIM-Only Contracts](https://parentshield.co.uk/monthly-rolling-contract/): No Tie-Ins, No Catches or Smallprint Capped SIM only deals from ParentShield are “Rolling Monthly” contracts. This means you are... - [Caller Blocking Features](https://parentshield.co.uk/features-ultra-secure/): Control exactly who can call or be called, text or be texted ParentShield is the only Mobile Network with powerful... - [Unique monitoring capabilities](https://parentshield.co.uk/unique-monitoring-capabilities/): Monitor activity remotely Each account has an optional Call and / or SMS recording function that allows the parent /... - [Ultra Secure Mode](https://parentshield.co.uk/ultra-secure-mode/): Make a Mobile Phone Safe for Any Child ParentShield is unique in that it offers a network-level ‘call firewall’ as... - [FAQ for Care Users](https://parentshield.co.uk/questions-care/): ParentShield Children in Care SIM Cards Mobile phone provision for Children and Young People in care poses special challenges. ParentShield... - [Safeguarding: Child SMS and Call Recording](https://parentshield.co.uk/features-recorded-sim/): ParentShield Recording Features SMS Recording and Call Recording are key parts of ParentShield’s safeguarding capability. The majority of our customers... - [Calls Texts Only No Data](https://parentshield.co.uk/calls-texts-only-no-data/): No Data SIM cards – Calls and Texts Only Sim only no data tariffs from ParentShield are special child-safe no-data... - [Protect: ParentShield Time Control Features](https://parentshield.co.uk/features-time-controls/): Control When a Child’s Calls, Texts and Mobile Data are available Controlling the times and situations where a child can... - [ParentShield's Budgeting and Spending Features](https://parentshield.co.uk/features-budgeting-spending/): Protect Against Excessive Spending or Usage ParentShield is the only Mobile Network that is perfect for children because it allows... - [Strongest Signal SIM](https://parentshield.co.uk/features-roaming-sim/): Roaming SIM Features Imagine a child’s mobile phone that doesn’t suffer from ‘not spots’. Having a great signal when your... - [Child Communication Alert Features](https://parentshield.co.uk/features-word-alerts/): Be Alerted if Concerning Words or Phrases are Used or a New Friend Appears ParentShield is the only Mobile Network... - [Call Recording and Privacy](https://parentshield.co.uk/call-recording-privacy/): ParentShield takes privacy seriously ParentShield’s mission is to provide a protective mobile network that provides protection that is not available... - [Child-Safe SIM Only Deals](https://parentshield.co.uk/sim-only/): Rolling Monthly Contracts. No overspending is possible – these are the prices you pay. There is no way the user... - [Restrict children’s phone calls and SMS to home numbers.](https://parentshield.co.uk/mobile-phone-only-call-parents/): Would you like to be able to give a mobile phone to a child, so they can call home and... - [Teen Mobile Secrets – ParentShield](https://parentshield.co.uk/teen-mobile-secrets-exposed/): The Teen Mobile dangers of Growing Up With Technology Kids and teenagers today have to deal with new experiences and... - [The 4 Biggest Risks Of Your Child Owning A Mobile](https://parentshield.co.uk/biggest-risks/): More Information The Biggest Risks from Modern Mobile Phones The New Dangers of Growing Up With Technology Kids and teens... - [Providing a first Mobile Phone Contract for a Child](https://parentshield.co.uk/sample-mobile-contract-parents-children/): Here is an example mobile phone contract that you might like to copy and modify as required to start off... - [No confiscation: Block Mobile Phones At School with ParentShield](https://parentshield.co.uk/block-mobiles-during-school-hours/): A new Mobile Network in the UK has become the first to offer “SchoolBlock” a simple single switch that blocks... - [Problems with iPhone, iMessage and calling - Solutions.](https://parentshield.co.uk/problems-with-iphone-imessage-and-facetime/) - [Become A ParentShield Stockist or Referrer](https://parentshield.co.uk/resellers/): If you’re a mobile phone retailer and you’d like to find out more about stocking our SIMs, or you are... - [For Schools](https://parentshield.co.uk/for-schools/): A ParentShield SIM can be instantly blocked from calls, texts or mobile data at school Download pdf documents here and... - [ParentShield MVNO](https://parentshield.co.uk/corporate/): We are: Engine Mobile Ltd. Pioneer House, Derby, DE73 7HL. Co. Reg. 10697643 VAT: GB297931349 Engine Mobile ParentShield are an... - [Terms and Conditions](https://parentshield.co.uk/terms-and-conditions/): Terms and Conditions – ParentShield Platform General In this agreement, Us and We refer to: Engine Mobile Ltd. Pioneer HouseDerby... - [Fair Use Policy](https://parentshield.co.uk/fair-use-policy/): ParentShield Network Fair Use Policy This policy describes the intended usage of the Service. The Service is intended only for... - [Code of Practice](https://parentshield.co.uk/code-of-practice/): Code of Practice – ParentShield Platform General This page explains how Engine Mobile Ltd. works to resolve any complaints or... - [Should a Child have a Mobile Phone?](https://parentshield.co.uk/should-a-child-have-a-mobile-phone/): Yes. Children of ALL ages CAN have a mobile phone! Mobile phones have become a modern necessity for children, and... - [My Child Has Locked Their Phone I Need a PUK Code](https://parentshield.co.uk/child-has-locked-their-phone-need-a-puk/): For help call 0330 122 1180 or email hello@parentShield. co. uk What is a PUK? PUK stands for Pin Unlock... - [Using too much data](https://parentshield.co.uk/using-too-much-data/): Why is my Child using too much mobile data? Many people’s response to a child ( or themselves ) using... - [Portal Guide and Features for Protecting a Child's Phone](https://parentshield.co.uk/portal-guide/): ParentShield gives you access to a Portal, that allows you to view the call & text history, listen to all... - [Unlocking a Mobile for a Child - Ultimate Guide from ParentShield](https://parentshield.co.uk/unlocking-guide/): Unlocking a Mobile for a Child will be necessary If a phone is locked to a particular network. It will... - [System Status](https://parentshield.co.uk/system-status/): If there are any issues affecting service that we’re aware of, they’ll be reported below. Like all services, things can... - [Changes](https://parentshield.co.uk/changes/): Latest Network Changes and Developments 2025-09-18 You can now order a replacement for a lost, damaged or stolen SIM, or... - [Help For Current Customers](https://parentshield.co.uk/help-for-current-customers/): If you have a ParentShield SIM and are experiencing any problems, we are here to help. Call us on :... - [First Phone Questions](https://parentshield.co.uk/first-phone-questions/): A child's first phone FAQ Most of ParentShield’s users are getting their first phone and phone number. Here are some... - [Data Guide](https://parentshield.co.uk/data-guide/): To be able to use mobile data with a ParentShield SIM card, you may need to set the data settings... - [Privacy Policy](https://parentshield.co.uk/privacy-policy/): Who we are? In this Privacy Policy references to “We” and “Us” are to Engine Mobile Ltd, Pioneer House, Stenson... - [Get in Touch with ParentShield](https://parentshield.co.uk/contact/): If you are ordering a SIM card, we post every normal business day at around 4pm. If it’s a bank... - [Frequently Asked Questions - ParentShield](https://parentshield.co.uk/questions-2/): ParentShield in 60 Seconds... Here are ( just some! ) of the questions we have been asked. We have some... - [ParentShield Blog](https://parentshield.co.uk/blog/): Useful Blog posts by ParentShield SIM Staff and customers --- ## Posts - [Latest Updates on the Under-16s Social Media Ban](https://parentshield.co.uk/latest-updates-on-the-under-16s-social-media-ban/): Over recent months, the conversation in the UK about children and social media has shifted from “discussion” to decisive political... - [Going on Holiday with ParentShield](https://parentshield.co.uk/going-on-holiday-with-parentshield/): Treating yourself to a well deserved holiday is always a wonderful idea, though we know it can sometimes be stressful.... - [Network Selection Help](https://parentshield.co.uk/network-selection-help/): Learn the key differences between ParentShield SIM plans and choose the right mobile network and tariff for your needs. - [O2 SIM Only for Kids](https://parentshield.co.uk/o2-childs-sim/): Are you looking for an O2 only SIM card for a child but with ParentShield controls? ParentShield’s All-Network SIM Tariffs... - [Vodafone Children's SIM](https://parentshield.co.uk/i-want-a-vodafone-sim-for-my-childs-phone/): For a Child’s SIM, In our experience, Vodafone marginally edges Three and EE for its rural coverage. The Network’s urban... - [Child's SIM on the UK's Three Network](https://parentshield.co.uk/childs-sim-on-three-uk-network/): Are you looking for a SIM card for a child, but particularly like the 3 Network? There are many reasons... - [Going abroad with my ParentShield Mobile Phone, How does it work?](https://parentshield.co.uk/going-abroad-with-my-parentshield-mobile-phone-how-does-it-work/): ParentShield is the only mobile network service designed with children in mind. We provide a unique UK-based MVNO that offers... - [Smartphone Plans for Kids: What Every Parent Needs to Know in 2026](https://parentshield.co.uk/smartphone-plans-for-kids-what-every-parent-needs-to-know-in-2025/): Choosing the right smartphone plan for your child isn’t just about price or data – it’s about mobile safety, control, and peace of... - [Is My Child’s iPhone eSIM Compatible?](https://parentshield.co.uk/is-my-childs-iphone-esim-compatible/): Apple adopted eSIM earlier than most manufacturers, making it much simpler for parents choosing an eSIM for their child’s phone.... - [Is My Child’s Samsung eSIM Compatible?](https://parentshield.co.uk/is-my-childs-samsung-esim-compatible/): If you’re setting up a safe SIM plan for your child, you may be wondering whether their Samsung phone supports eSIM.... - [No Unexpected Charges](https://parentshield.co.uk/no-unexpected-charges/): That’s what we at ParentShield have always promised our customers from the outset. But what does it really mean? Well,... - [Case Study: A Real Parent’s Guide to a Safe First Phone](https://parentshield.co.uk/case-study-a-real-parents-guide-to-a-safe-first-phone/): Inspired by a Family Action case study featuring ParentShield When should your child get their first phone – and how... - [Why Choose a Memorable Phone Number for Your Child?](https://parentshield.co.uk/why_choose_a_memorable_number_for_your_child/): A child’s first mobile number becomes part of their identity. They’ll use it at school, with family, for clubs, and... - [Should All Mobile Networks Pre-Register Children’s Mobile Numbers With the TPS?](https://parentshield.co.uk/pre-register-childrens-mobile-numbers-tps-protection/): ParentShield Does. When a child gets their first mobile phone, safety should come first – not unsolicited sales and marketing calls... - [EE Safer SIMs vs ParentShield Child-Safe SIMs](https://parentshield.co.uk/ee-safer-sims-vs-parentshield-sims/): Which SIM Is Right for Your Child? If you’re searching for a safer SIM for your child, two names you’ll... - [What Are Smarter SIMs?](https://parentshield.co.uk/what-are-smarter-sims/): A smarter SIM is a mobile SIM card with built-in safety features, parental controls, and spending protection. Unlike standard SIMs, smarter SIMs... - [Why Safe SIMs Are Becoming a Must-Have for UK Parents in 2026](https://parentshield.co.uk/why-safe-sims-are-becoming-a-must-have-for-uk-parents-in-2025/): In 2026, Safer SIMs are no longer a niche product — they’re quickly becoming one of the most sought-after mobile... - [What is The Phone Chat – and Why the Right SIM Matters](https://parentshield.co.uk/what-is-the-phone-chat-and-why-the-right-sim-matters/): Giving your child their first phone is a big milestone — that’s why mobile networks are starting to provide more... - [Why ParentShield Is Still the Gold Standard in Safer SIMs as Big Networks Scramble to Catch Up](https://parentshield.co.uk/safer-sim-plans/): With headlines buzzing about the big networks starting to offer safer SIM plans for children and teens, it’s encouraging to... - [SIM Only Back to School Offers](https://parentshield.co.uk/sim-only-back-to-school-offers/): Get Ready for September with the best SIM cards for kids In preparation, many parents are already beginning to tick... - [Why Local Authorities and Children’s Services Trust ParentShield to Protect Young People in Care](https://parentshield.co.uk/why-local-authorities-and-childrens-services-trust-parentshield/): Across the UK, more and more Local Authorities, Children’s Homes, and Children’s Trusts are turning to ParentShield to meet the unique safeguarding... - [Balancing Independence and Safety: Letting Your Child Go Out Alone](https://parentshield.co.uk/balancing-independence-and-safety-letting-your-child-go-out-alone/): The summer holidays bring sunshine, freedom – and for many families, new milestones. One of the biggest steps is letting... - [Why You Should Get Your Child Their Own Mobile Number Before the Summer Holidays](https://parentshield.co.uk/why-you-should-get-your-child-their-own-mobile-number-now/): The summer holidays are nearly here! Six weeks of adventures, trips to the park, days out with friends, sleepovers, and... - [What Happens if My Child Loses Their Phone?](https://parentshield.co.uk/what-happens-if-my-child-loses-their-phone/): Tips and Advice for Parents It’s something most parents dread: realising your child has lost their mobile phone. Whether it... - [Would You Know If Your Child Received a Text From a Stranger?](https://parentshield.co.uk/would-you-know-if-your-child-received-a-text-from-a-stranger/): Getting a child their first phone is always a big milestone. It usually comes after months of thinking, comparing phones,... - [The ParentShield Webinar – What Every Parent and School Needs to Know](https://parentshield.co.uk/the-parentshield-webinar/): ParentShield is the UK’s only mobile network designed exclusively for children and young people. It’s the smart, safe choice for... - [New Tracking Tool Gives Parents Lifeline for Children with ‘Dumb Phones’](https://parentshield.co.uk/new-tracking-tool-gives-parents-lifeline-for-children-with-dumb-phones/): The feature locates a child’s phone via cell tower – even without GPS or smartphone functionality. In a telecoms first, ParentShield –... - [Cell Tower Tracking](https://parentshield.co.uk/celltower-location-of-a-child-phone/): From today you might spot a new button in the ParentShield Portal at the bottom of the page: This is... - [ParentShield Extends Protective Features to Support Elderly Mobile Users](https://parentshield.co.uk/parentshield-for-elderly-users/): ParentShield’s safety features, designed for children, are now being used to help protect elderly mobile phone users from scams and... - [Coming Soon: Google Wallet for Children via Family Link](https://parentshield.co.uk/coming-soon-google-wallet-for-children-via-family-link/): At ParentShield, we’re always on the lookout for tools and updates that help families introduce mobile independence in a safe... - [Cheapest SIM Plan for Kids](https://parentshield.co.uk/cheapest-sim-plan-for-kids/): As parents, when providing a mobile phone we also want to ensure their safety. But finding an affordable, child-friendly SIM... - [Unlimited Data Plans for Teenagers – With Parental Controls](https://parentshield.co.uk/unlimited-data-plans-for-teenagers-with-parental-controls/): When looking for the best unlimited data plan for teenagers, parents often worry about safety and excessive mobile use. With most... - [eSIM or Physical SIM? What Parents Need to Know](https://parentshield.co.uk/esim-or-physical-sim/): As mobile technology continues to evolve, many customers find themselves choosing between a traditional physical SIM and the newer eSIM for kids... - [Why ParentShield Chose EE: The UK’s Best Mobile Network](https://parentshield.co.uk/why-parentshield-chose-ee-the-uks-best-mobile-network/): At ParentShield, our mission has always been clear: to provide the safest and most reliable mobile network for children and... - [Best Dumb Phones for a Child](https://parentshield.co.uk/best-dumb-phones-for-a-child/): As children venture into the world of mobile phones, many parents are opting for “dumb phones” as a first step.... - [Best Phones for Kids Guide: Christmas 2025 Edition](https://parentshield.co.uk/best-phones-for-kids-guide-christmas-2024-edition/): Choosing the right phone for your child can be tricky, especially as there are so many options to consider. From... - [ParentShield Helps UK Schools Provide Secure “Burner Phones” to Ensure Student Safety](https://parentshield.co.uk/parentshield-helps-schools-provide-secure-phones/): Innovative solution balances school mobile phone policy with parent concerns for child safety. Many schools have recently implemented a no-mobile-phone... - [The Hidden Flaw of Standard No Data SIMs in 4G Feature Phones](https://parentshield.co.uk/no-data-sims-on-4g-feature-phones/): What You Need to Know When it comes to choosing a SIM card for a 4G non-smartphone, many parents might... - [Retro Phones for Kids](https://parentshield.co.uk/retro-phones-for-kids/): Many parents are turning to ‘retro’ or ‘dumb’ phones, officially known as feature phones, for their children. These simpler devices,... - [How To Disable Google Chat RCS](https://parentshield.co.uk/how-to-disable-google-chat-rcs/): What is Google Chat RCS Google’s Rich Communication Services (RCS) is a messaging service, available on Android devices, that requires... - [ParentShield Responds to Young People's Views on Under-16s Phones](https://parentshield.co.uk/parentshield-responds-to-young-peoples-views-on-under-16s-phones/): VotesforSchools recently asked children and young people across the UK for their thoughts on the idea of specially-designed phones for... - [ParentShield Maintains Protection Amid WhatsApp Age Limit Controversy](https://parentshield.co.uk/parentshield-maintains-protection/): Amidst the ongoing concern surrounding WhatsApp’s decision to lower its minimum age limit, ParentShield, the child-safe mobile network, reaffirms its... - [Setting Up Your Child's Android Phone](https://parentshield.co.uk/setting-up-your-childs-android-phone/): Before giving your child their first phone, there are a few things that need to be done to ensure you... - [ParentShield to Showcase at Schools & Academies Show](https://parentshield.co.uk/parentshield-at-edtech/): ParentShield, the leading Mobile Network designed specifically for children’s first mobile phones, is excited to announce its participation in EdTech... - [Special Mobile Phones for Children: A Solution or a Problem?](https://parentshield.co.uk/special-mobile-phones-for-children-a-solution-or-a-problem/): The question of whether there should be specialised phones designed specifically for children has become a topic of discussion among... - [eSIMs for Kids Phones](https://parentshield.co.uk/esims-for-kids-phones/): In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, parents are constantly seeking innovative solutions to ensure their children’s safety and manage their... - [ParentShield Becomes First Mobile Network to Issue Pre-Registered TPS Numbers](https://parentshield.co.uk/parentshield-tps-registered-numbers/): ParentShield, the leading provider of mobile communication solutions for children, is pleased to announce an innovative arrangement with the Telephone... - [Santa-Approved Safety for Your Child’s First Phone](https://parentshield.co.uk/santa-approved-safety-for-your-childs-first-phone/): 🎄📱🎅 Ho, ho, ho! It’s the season of goodwill and giving, and what better gift to give them than the... - [Fortnite Moves to Voice Recording to Protect Children in Matches](https://parentshield.co.uk/fortnite-moves-to-voice-recording-to-protect-children-in-matches/): Epic Games, the creators behind the widely popular game Fortnite, has taken a decisive step toward bolstering online safety with... - [ParentShield awarded 'Best Use of Innovation or Technology'](https://parentshield.co.uk/parentshield-innovation-award/): South Derbyshire Pioneering MVNO ParentShield takes prestigious Innovation award judged by JCB In a resounding victory for technological innovation, ParentShield... - [A Kid's Guide to Mobile Numbers](https://parentshield.co.uk/a-kids-guide-to-mobile-numbers/): Mobile numbers, those fascinating strings of digits that connect us with friends and family, have become an essential part of... - [Customer First: ParentShield's Strategy for Customer Satisfaction](https://parentshield.co.uk/customer-first-parentshields-strategy-for-customer-satisfaction/): We believe that putting the customer at the forefront is not just a strategy; it’s a fundamental responsibility. We will... - [Buying a Mobile Phone for a Child for Christmas 2025](https://parentshield.co.uk/buying-a-mobile-phone-for-christmas/): We’ve had our first Christmas order for Christmas 2025 already – so the season has officially started – and here... - [Raising the IQ of 'Dumb Phones' for Child Safety With ParentShield](https://parentshield.co.uk/raising-the-iq-of-dumb-phones-for-child-safety-with-parentshield/): Children are gaining access to mobile phones at increasingly younger ages, and while these devices offer convenience and communication, they... - [Phone Follies: ParentShield's Adventures in SIM Replacements](https://parentshield.co.uk/phone-follies-parentshields-adventures-in-sim-replacements/): Buckle up, because today we’re delving into the world of (mainly) child-induced phone mishaps, where ParentShield‘s customer requests for replacement... - [Exploring the Fascination of "Nice" Numbers for Children's Phones](https://parentshield.co.uk/exploring-the-fascination-of-nice-numbers-for-childrens-phones/): In the world of numbers for SIM cards for kids, there’s a unique charm that certain combinations hold – the... - [Fun Mobile Phones Quiz for Kids](https://parentshield.co.uk/fun-mobile-phones-quiz-for-kids/): The summer holidays are now in full swing, and whilst kids all over are enjoying their adventures, we wanted to... - [Teaching Good Cybersecurity Practices to Children](https://parentshield.co.uk/teaching-good-cybersecurity-practices-to-children/): Let’s face it, technology is everywhere. Children nowadays are growing up surrounded by screens and the internet. While this has... - [UK Schools at Crossroads: To Ban or Not to Ban Mobile Phones?](https://parentshield.co.uk/the-ongoing-mobile-phone-debate-in-uk-schools/): The debate on whether to ban mobile phones in schools continues, with union leaders cautioning against a complete ban. TES... - [Locating a Child’s iPhone from an Android Phone](https://parentshield.co.uk/locating-a-childs-iphone-from-an-android-phone/): If you have a child with an iPhone and you are an Android user, fret not! Apple’s iCloud Find My... - [First Mobile Phones: A History from the Very First Mobile Phone](https://parentshield.co.uk/first-mobile-phones-a-history-from-the-very-first-mobile-phone/): The evolution of mobile phones has been nothing short of remarkable. From the humble beginnings of clunky, oversized devices to... - [Locating a Child's Android Phone from an iPhone](https://parentshield.co.uk/locating-a-childs-android-phone-from-an-iphone/): As parents, ensuring our children’s safety is a top priority, and it’s crucial to know how to locate their devices... - [A Parent's Guide to Mobile Terminology](https://parentshield.co.uk/a-parents-guide-to-mobile-terminology/): As parents, it is crucial to familiarise ourselves with the terminologies associated with our children’s phones. This comprehensive guide aims... - [Locate a child's phone even after its data has run out!](https://parentshield.co.uk/locate-a-phone-even-after-its-data-has-run-out/): ParentShield has always allowed your child to call and text Home numbers, even if they have run out of minutes... - [Parents Rush to Secure Mobile Numbers Before Summer Holidays](https://parentshield.co.uk/parents-rush-to-secure-mobile-numbers-before-summer-holidays/): As the summer holiday approaches, parents are rushing to secure mobile numbers for their children’s first phones to pass to... - [Assigning Names to Numbers](https://parentshield.co.uk/assigning-names-to-numbers/): You can now assign names to numbers in the calls and text listings in the ParentShield Portal! This has long... - [Unlocked Phones for Kids](https://parentshield.co.uk/unlocked-phones-for-kids/): When purchasing a new phone for your child’s ParentShield SIM card, the most important consideration is to ensure that it... - [Taking Care of Your First Mobile Phone – A Guide for Kids](https://parentshield.co.uk/taking-care-of-your-first-mobile-phone-a-guide-for-kids/): Getting a first mobile phone is an exciting time, but it’s also important for them to know how to take... - [Why Schools Recommend ParentShield](https://parentshield.co.uk/why-schools-recommend-parentshield/): Ensuring the safety of children on their mobile phones has become a paramount concern for schools and parents alike. ParentShield,... - [Teaching a Child 'Texting Etiquette'](https://parentshield.co.uk/teaching-a-child-texting-etiquette/): Nurturing Responsible Communication It’s not uncommon for children to have access to a mobile device at an early age. However,... - [SIM Cards with Usage Restrictions](https://parentshield.co.uk/sim-cards-with-usage-restrictions/): Whether it’s moving to a new school, Christmas, a birthday, or moving house to a new area, eventually the time... - [Lesson Plan: Teaching Responsible Mobile Phone Use](https://parentshield.co.uk/lesson-plan-teaching-responsible-mobile-phone-use/): Homeschooling over lockdown may seem like a distant memory now, but there were some fun times among the chaos of... - [Understanding Mobile Data: What Kids (and Parents) Should Know](https://parentshield.co.uk/understanding-mobile-data/): Mobile data refers to the digital information that travels over the internet to and from mobile devices, such as smartphones... - [A bit of congestion](https://parentshield.co.uk/a-bit-of-congestion/): — Update 9th May 2023 — We’ve been monitoring this particular situation over the weekend and things are back to... - [It's Complicated](https://parentshield.co.uk/its-complicated/): At ParentShield we deal with phones, sometimes at the messy end of life. We regularly get calls for help getting... - [Don't leave safe mobile phone use for granted - warns ParentShield](https://parentshield.co.uk/dont-leave-safe-mobile-phone-use-for-granted-warns-parentshield/): With Back-to-School around the corner, ParentShield, urges parents not to take it for granted that children will know how to... - [Why ParentShield removed Voicemail](https://parentshield.co.uk/why-parentshield-removed-voicemail/): The voicemail system that’s attached to every other mobile network isn’t suitable for a phone used by small children. The... - [Mobile Phone Safety according to AI](https://parentshield.co.uk/mobile-phone-safety-according-to-ai/): We thought we’d ask the now ubiquitous Artificial Intelligence Chat GPT a question: Write a 1000 word essay on the... - [ParentShield App Quickstart guide](https://parentshield.co.uk/parentshield-app-quickstart-guide/): ParentShield has switched from the old app to a more modern ‘PWA’ – Progressive Web App that will be far... - [Setting up Push Notifications on an iPhone](https://parentshield.co.uk/setting-up-push-notifications-on-an-iphone/): Apple have recently added support for Push Notifications to Mobile Safari, in the latest iOS 16. 4, but this is... - [New-correspondent Alerts](https://parentshield.co.uk/new-correspondent-alerts/): ParentShield has become First Mobile Network to Instantly Notify Parents of New Mobile Phone Correspondents their children may have. Derby-headquartered... - [Time Controls on ParentShield - things you might need to know](https://parentshield.co.uk/time-controls-on-parentshield/): Occasionally we get a question about data time controls. It’s sometimes asked if we can customise SchoolBlock times from 3pm... - [How To Set Up Location Tracking on a Child’s Android Phone](https://parentshield.co.uk/how-to-set-up-location-tracking-on-your-childs-android-phone/): At ParentShield, we are often asked for advice around the best way for parents to locate a child’s Android phone,... - [How To Set Up Location Tracking on a Child’s iPhone](https://parentshield.co.uk/how-to-set-up-location-tracking-on-a-childs-iphone/): We are often asked about the best way to locate a child’s phone when they are out and about, and... - [How to Monitor a Child's Instagram](https://parentshield.co.uk/how-to-monitor-a-childs-instagram/): What is Instagram? Instagram has a minimum age of 13 and is a social media platform for sharing photos, videos,... - [What Is Interland and Why Might It Be Useful for Your Child?](https://parentshield.co.uk/what-is-interland-and-why-might-it-be-useful-for-your-child/): Schools, such as Hilderthorpe Primary in Bridlington, are introducing Interland to their students to help raise the discussion of online... - [Ofsted boss not comfortable with younger children having unlimited internet access](https://parentshield.co.uk/ofsted-boss-internet-warning/): During an interview on BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC News reports that Amanda Spielman, Ofsted’s chief inspector, says she is “surprised”... - [SIM Cards for Old Phones](https://parentshield.co.uk/sim-cards-for-old-phones/): With the rise of foldable phones, we have seen a spike in popularity for old flip phones with UK children.... - [Talk and text only plans](https://parentshield.co.uk/talk-and-text-only-plans/): When providing a phone for a child, parents don’t necessarily require (or wish to allow) access to a mobile data... - [No Anonymous Calls - Ever](https://parentshield.co.uk/no-anonymous-callers/): If you are calling a child’s phone and you hear a “The owner of this mobile phone does not permit... - [Warnings over 'tinder-style' app used by UK children](https://parentshield.co.uk/warnings-over-tinder-style-app-used-by-uk-children/): News publications such as Manchester Evening News and Daily Record, have been warning parents about the Yubo app – branded... - [Adding 'Call Parent' Shortcuts to the Home Screen of an iPhone](https://parentshield.co.uk/adding-call-parent-shortcuts-to-the-home-screen-of-an-iphone/): From time to time we are updated on handy tips and tricks by Children using the ParentShield service themselves. The... - [Smartwatch vs Smartphone: Which is best for a child?](https://parentshield.co.uk/smartwatch-vs-smartphone-which-is-best-for-a-child/): Choosing between a Smartwatch and Smartphone is usually a crossroad that parents face in cases where there are concerns around... - [Mobile Phones for Kids: Parents Website Choice](https://parentshield.co.uk/mobile-phones-for-kids-parents-website-choice/): At ParentShield, we speak to 100’s of parents every week shopping for mobile phones for kids to go with the... - [Capped SIM Plans for Kids](https://parentshield.co.uk/capped-sim-plans-for-kids/): Choosing a SIM plan for a child needs some careful consideration, as the SIM plan that you’re handing over will... - [Protecting Children From Scam Text Messages](https://parentshield.co.uk/protecting-children-from-scam-text-messages/): Scammers are becoming more sophisticated, which means that their messages look ever more genuine. This is worrying enough when the... - [Introducing ParentShield Controls to your Child](https://parentshield.co.uk/introducing-parentshield-controls-to-your-child/): A common question we are asked, and here discussed, is “How do I introduce ParentShield to my child? ” and... - [Top 10 Parent Mistakes When Giving Their Child a Phone for Christmas](https://parentshield.co.uk/parent-child-phone-mistakes/): The Christmas rush has begun as parents start ticking off their Children’s wish lists, and that very first mobile phone... - [Sun Cards](https://parentshield.co.uk/sun-cards/): Sun Cards? , I hear you ask. Yes. The ParentShield live chat team have found that Sun card is a... - [Using the ParentShield API](https://parentshield.co.uk/using-the-parentshield-api/): Did you know, that if you’re a programmer type you can extend or automate your ParentShield Portal by using the... - [Parents Guide to TikTok Family Pairing](https://parentshield.co.uk/parents-guide-to-tiktok-family-pairing/): TikTok allows the streaming and sharing of video content and direct messaging, which for obvious reasons can be a real... --- ## Products - [Watch Plan](https://parentshield.co.uk/product/watch-plan/): ParentShield Watch Plan ParentShield Child-Safe Mobile Network SIM Only - [Pro Stage 2](https://parentshield.co.uk/product/pro-stage-2/): ParentShield Pro SIM Stage 2 - [Pro Stage 3](https://parentshield.co.uk/product/pro-stage-3/): ParentShield Pro SIM Stage 3 - [Pro Stage 4](https://parentshield.co.uk/product/pro-stage-4/): ParentShield Pro SIM Stage 4 - [Pro Stage 5](https://parentshield.co.uk/product/pro-stage-5/): ParentShield Pro SIM Stage 5 - [Safe Stage 1](https://parentshield.co.uk/product/safestage1/): ParentShield Child SIM Safe Stage 1 ParentShield Child-Safe Mobile Network SIM Only - [Safe Stage 2](https://parentshield.co.uk/product/safestage2/): ParentShield Child SIM Safe Stage 2 - [Safe Stage 3](https://parentshield.co.uk/product/safestage3/): ParentShield Child SIM Safe Stage 3 - [Safe Stage 4](https://parentshield.co.uk/product/safestage4/): ParentShield Child SIM Safe Stage 4 - [Safe Stage 5](https://parentshield.co.uk/product/safestage5/): ParentShield Child SIM Safe Stage 5 - [Roam Stage 5](https://parentshield.co.uk/product/safe-stage-5/): ParentShield Child SIM Safe Stage 5 - [Safe Stage 6](https://parentshield.co.uk/product/safe-stage-6/): ParentShield Child SIM Safe Stage 6 - [Roam Stage 3](https://parentshield.co.uk/product/safe-2/): ParentShield Child SIM Safe Stage 3 - [Roam Stage 4](https://parentshield.co.uk/product/safe3/): ParentShield Child SIM Safe Stage 4 - [Safe Stage 2 NoData](https://parentshield.co.uk/product/family-plan-nodata/): ParentShield No-Data Mobile Network SIM - [Roam Stage 1](https://parentshield.co.uk/product/family-plan/): ParentShield Child SIM Safe Stage 1 ParentShield Child-Safe Mobile Network SIM Only - [Roam Stage 2](https://parentshield.co.uk/product/safe/): ParentShield Child SIM Safe Stage 2 --- # # Detailed Content ## Pages - Published: 2026-01-12 - Modified: 2026-01-19 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/testimonials/ Because we have been able to re-invent the mobile network, and build our features to be perfect for our users we are able to do the right thing. And we hope this shows in our feedback. You can read reviews here, or you can visit Reviews. io, our independent review provider and see every single review, good or bad. Read the Hundreds of reviews from current ParentShield Customers Reviews verified by Reviews. io All the ParentShield Reviews here are verified by Review Company Reviews. io. Every time we receive an order, a review request is sent to the customer on our behalf by Reviews. io. The feedback they receive is published - good or bad. At ParentShield we work our hardest to deserve a five star review from every customer. Our Customer Sarah, told us what she thought of ParentShield. We used her words to make this video. Our commitment to you As with everything in life, if it involves humans, computers, and mobile networks! things will occasionally go wrong. What we can promise though, is if it's our fault, we will put it right, and do that as quickly as humanly possible. Occasionally there are things out of our control ( like the post, or other mobile network services that we rely on ). If these go wrong we will do everything we can to find a way around the problem, or at the very least, stop charging you until things are perfect again. We genuinely want things to... --- - Published: 2026-01-08 - Modified: 2026-01-14 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/parentshield-voucher-codes/ Mobile SIM deals for children. Use a code from this official Child-Only Mobile Network for a special deal on your new ParentShield SIM card. ParentShield allows parents to control the network for their Child's Mobile Phone. View All Calls and text messages to and from the phone - even if they are deleted from the phone. Deals on sim only Here are some current sim-only deal Voucher Codes for 2026 that you can use at the parentshield. co. uk online store to say thank you from us for using ParentShield The Child-Safe mobile network. Only one voucher may be used with each purchase of capped sim deals! CODE: FREEDATA Use the code above to get 10GB extra data for the first month! Valid on Safe Stage 2 and above. Not valid on Roam stages. CODE: EXTRA14 Use the code above on your order, and we'll extend your next billing date by an additional two weeks when paying by card. If you're paying by Direct Debit, you'll enjoy two extra weeks before your first bill. CODE: LEVELUP Upgrade to the next plan level for your first month, free of charge!  Not valid on Stage 1. SIMs are posted same or next day --- - Published: 2025-04-25 - Modified: 2025-04-30 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/senior/ Stay in Touch Keep them safe on the phone FEATURES SIM-ONLY PRICES "Our Father was continually targeted on his phone by scammers and fraudsters - ParentShield has changed all that. " Alan PoulterOrder ID: 11343 SIM-Only Contracts - cancel at any time Overspending is impossible - these are the prices you pay, and there is no way the user can ever run up a surprise bill. SAFE STAGE 2 SAFE STAGE 3 SAFE STAGE 4 SAFE STAGE 5 Looking for our famous All-Network Roaming SIM? Click Here Trusted by 10,000+ UK parents and carers for: Children Providing a mobile is a vital way of staying in touch, but can open users up to abuse and scams. ParentShield for seniors provides all the tools you need to protect anyone who needs calls and text messages. Out of the box we block all anonymous calls, to, or from the users phone and provide the ability to restrict calls to trusted people and suitable times. Coverage If you are in a part of the country where mobile signals are poor, you would benefit from a true Roaming SIM that will connect to the strongest signal from multiple carriers. Otherwise our standard SIM is on the UK's best single network ( EE ) ParentShield SIMS are particularly recommended for use where older phone users may otherwise lose signal and need to call. Budgeting ParentShield is a contract SIM that is totally capped. Any activity – such as SMS shortcodes, MMS, Premium Rate Numbers, Directory... --- - Published: 2024-04-13 - Modified: 2024-04-13 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/cookie-policy/ About this cookie policyThis Cookie Policy explains what cookies are and how we use them, the types of cookies we use i. e, the information we collect using cookies and how that information is used, and how to control the cookie preferences. For further information on how we use, store, and keep your personal data secure, see our Privacy Policy. You can at any time change or withdraw your consent from the Cookie Declaration on our website Learn more about who we are, how you can contact us, and how we process personal data in our Privacy Policy. Your consent applies to the following domains: parentshield. co. uk What are cookies ? Cookies are small text files that are used to store small pieces of information. They are stored on your device when the website is loaded on your browser. These cookies help us make the website function properly, make it more secure, provide better user experience, and understand how the website performs and to analyze what works and where it needs improvement. How do we use cookies ? As most of the online services, our website uses first-party and third-party cookies for several purposes. First-party cookies are mostly necessary for the website to function the right way, and they do not collect any of your personally identifiable data. The third-party cookies used on our website are mainly for understanding how the website performs, how you interact with our website, keeping our services secure, providing advertisements that are relevant to... --- - Published: 2024-01-19 - Modified: 2024-02-06 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/meet-the-mobile-network-designed-for-your-child/ Their first mobile phone is a big step, and not just for them . You're at the point of giving them some independence, but are probably nervous about what this may bring. Meet ParentShield: The Award-Winning Child-Safe Mobile Network Look no further. ParentShield is not just a SIM card; it's your key to tailoring a mobile network to their age or ability. ParentShield allows you to set restrictions for your child's phone, enable parent alerts, and monitor activity remotely, from within your parent portal app. All 30-day rolling contracts, so you can cancel or even pause service at any time. Watch the ParentShield Video Works in ANY unlocked mobile phone Don't worry about phone models. ParentShield SIM cards, the portal controls, monitoring and alerts, work seamlessly no matter what phone you give them, ensuring that your child's safety and your peace of mind are not bound by the device. Whether it's a basic 2G Nokia feature phone or the latest smartphone, ParentShield has you covered. Features not available on any other mobile network (choose the ones you need) Super Simple Setup Getting started with ParentShield is a breeze: Order Your ParentShield SIM: Unlock the power of ParentShield by ordering your SIM card today. Insert the SIM: Pop the ParentShield SIM into your child's phone, whether it's a basic 2G feature phone or a smartphone. Customise Controls: Tailor network-side controls, set up SchoolBlock, and personalise alerts on the ParentShield Portal. Monitor activity: Log in securely at any time to monitor calls... --- - Published: 2023-07-11 - Modified: 2024-10-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/billing-information/ Initial Order Billing When first ordering a SIM card, you will be given a couple of different options in regards to payment. Those are credit / debit card or direct debit. If choosing credit / debit payment, you will be charged the price shown immediately and be charged on the same day as you placed the order, each month. If you'd like to request a preferred payment date for credit / debit card, let us know in the order notes and we can do that for you. If supplying direct debit details, things are slightly different. As we have to setup a direct debit 'instruction', you won't be charged immediately for the order. Additionally, direct debit payments can be 'pending' with your bank for a few days, so may end up coming out later than submitted. If you have a preferred date for direct debit payments, let us know in the order notes, and we'll get as close as possible for you. Our direct debit submission days are the 6th, 18th and 27th of each month. Depending on when you placed the order, your payment date will be different. Because we have to setup the instruction with your bank first for the direct debit, you will be charged on not the next direct debit submission date, but rather the following one. Ordering any time on or after the 27th of the month and before the 6th of the month: The direct debit instruction will be setup on the 6th and... --- - Published: 2023-05-31 - Modified: 2023-05-31 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/names4numbers-privacy-policy/ Data entered into the "Names4Numbers" extension for Google Chrome is not sent to or collected by ParentShield. The names and numbers you enter will be stored on your computer, and may be saved in your Google Chrome account to enable synchronisation across devices. However, none of this data will be sent to ParentShield. Historically, one of our most-requested features has been the ability to display names in place of telephone numbers. However, if we were to store other people's sensitive personal data on our servers, this would require us to obtain consent from every person whose name and number were being stored. Therefore, we created the Names4Numbers extension to store the names associated with numbers on the user's computer, while integrating seamlessly with the Portal to give the appearance of them being stored on the server which generates the pages. When you visit the ParentShield portal at https://my. engine-mobile. co. uk/ , the extension modifies the data sent from our server as follows: A whole new "Names" tab is created to display names and numbers. Fields which are marked as containing telephone numbers are examined for stored numbers; and if the number which matches a stored number, it will be substituted with the associated name before it is displayed on screen. The menus attached to numbers in the "Calls" and "Text" tabs will have an extra action added, to allow you to enter a name to go with the number if no name is already stored against that number. All... --- - Published: 2022-11-09 - Modified: 2025-08-01 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/congratulations-your-school-referred-you/ How do I claim my free month? Simply click on the image above, or here, and it will take you to the ParentShield website. Choose your plan ( you can upgrade or downgrade at any time too ) Choose Direct Debit and you’ll get your first month free Or, choose card payment for your second month free *You do not need to fill in a coupon code at checkout. Since you visited this page, you will receive your free month automagically. You will receive an email to notify the free month has been applied. Why has my School recommended ParentShield? The only Mobile Network designed for Children Block use during school hours All-Network SIM provides stunning UK coverage Know and control who they are talking to Monitoring capabilities not available on other mobile networks Teach responsible phone usage from day one Unique parental controls Impossible to overspend Cancel any time Provide any phone of your choice SIM cards for children’s phones Stop phone usage after bedtime --- - Published: 2022-08-18 - Modified: 2025-09-09 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/referred/ Why you'll love ParentShield - find out in 60 Seconds How do I claim my free month? Simply click on the image above, or here, and it will take you to the ParentShield website. Choose your plan ( you can upgrade or downgrade at any time too ) Choose your sim type ( Normal SIM or eSIM ) Choose Direct Debit and you'll get your first month free Or, choose card payment for your second month free *You do not need to fill in a coupon code at checkout. Since you visited this page, you will receive your free month automagically. Both you and the referrer will receive an email to notify the free month has been applied. Why Choose ParentShield? The only Mobile Network designed for Children Know and control who they are talking to Monitoring capabilities not available on other mobile networks Teach responsible phone usage from day one Unique parental controls Impossible to overspend Cancel any time Provide any phone of your choice SIM cards for children’s phones Stop phone usage after bedtime --- - Published: 2022-05-31 - Modified: 2026-01-19 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/ They Get a First Mobile You get Peace of Mind FEATURES SIM-ONLY PRICES Trustpilot "This is such a brilliant service... If every company providing services to children were as responsible, the world would be a better place! " Sian JonesOrder ID: 1945 SIM-Only Contracts - cancel at any time Overspending is impossible - these are the prices you pay, and there is no way the user can ever run up a surprise bill. SAFE STAGE 1 SAFE STAGE 2 SAFE STAGE 3 SAFE STAGE 4 SAFE STAGE 5 Looking for our famous All-Network Roaming SIM? --- - Published: 2022-04-26 - Modified: 2023-03-02 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/sitemap/ As the ParentShield Website continues to grow we have decided to include a Sitemap! Alternatively, you can search for words or phrases in the parentshield. co. uk website here: --- - Published: 2022-03-27 - Modified: 2025-12-07 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/features/ ParentShield is the only Mobile Network that is perfect for children. Because it is designed for children from the ground up, and has many features that can't be found on any other network. Unlike Parental control software that controls a phone, you control the network, to make sure those using the phone are safe. Roaming Network ParentShield offers two different types of SIMs, a single-network SIM and an all-network SIM. With the all-network roaming SIM, ParentShield is a true roaming network with the ability to get your child a mobile signal where a single network SIM may not. Placed in any unlocked mobile phone, the ParentShield Roaming SIM finds the network with the strongest signal to connect to. This means that, even if you live in a remote area, ParentShield gives you the best possible chance of being in touch with your valuable user. Roaming Features Call and SMS Recording Know exactly what conversations are being had, and with whom, by reviewing your child's call and SMS history. Even if you don't check the recordings regularly, you have the peace of mind knowing that, should the worst happen, the calls and texts are there, archived securely for six months. About Call and SMS recording Our Network If you are providing a SIM card for a Child's mobile phone, only ParentShield will provide the features that are required to guarantee that the mobile phone can't become a danger. Designing a network only for children gives us the ability to do things... --- - Published: 2021-12-29 - Modified: 2025-06-04 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/going-abroad/ Like most other mobile phone services, ParentShield SIM cards will work abroad if you are going on holiday, or your child is going on a school trip or away with a sports team. But as you would expect with ParentShield there are some differences to ensure there are still no surprise bills. Any use of a ParentShield SIM abroad is now subject to zone-based roaming charges, in line with standard mobile practice. This includes both Roam Stage SIM cards and Safe Stage plans, and will need enabling for the phone to work outside the UK. The fixed charges vary depending on the destination country and length of stay, and once activated, will enable calls, texts, and mobile data while abroad. The roaming charge is clearly displayed, and fully under your control. And as you would expect with ParentShield, we honour our no overspending guarantee - if you forget to enable it, the phone simply won’t connect overseas. No roaming, no charges, no surprises. Roaming access and the relevant zone can be managed from within the ParentShield Portal, or by contacting our support team via Live Chat, calling 0330 122 1180, or emailing hello@parentshield. co. uk. Lost Child Phone Abroad ParentShield even protects you should your child lose their phone abroad. Even a locked phone will not protect you on a normal network as it's easy to just remove the SIM and use that to dial *very* expensive numbers. With ParentShield only standard UK mobile numbers and landlines can be called. Where can my child's... --- - Published: 2021-12-09 - Modified: 2022-07-13 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/for-schools/school-mobile-phone-policies/ ParentShield regularly surveys UK schools and the thousands of parents who use our Network to check what policies schools are implementing regarding Mobile Phone possession and usage. Being the only child-only mobile network, this is important to us for product development and implementation of network features such as SchoolBlock that allows parents to prevent Phone usage during School Hours. We will shortly be updating this page with percentages of respondents and comments from Schools. ParentShield understands that Mobile Phones and mobile phone use at school is a constant source of potential friction between staff and pupils, and between staff and parents. This is why we are pioneering innovative solutions such as our SchoolBlock switch which stops all call, text and Mobile Data activity during School Hours. Schools are increasingly recommending ParentShield to their Parents as they seek to implement effective mobile phone policies. Which Mobile Phone Policies do Schools Implement? Spoiler Alert - latest and up-to-date results can be found here without voting Total Ban - No phones inside the School Gates Typically Zero Tolerance, no mobile phones of any type allowed in school anywhere. Vote for this policy Phones Out Of Sight, Out of Mind As long as phones are kept in bags and turned off, they may be brought into school so they can be used before and after school to coordinate pickups and drop-offs. Vote for this policy Responsible use allowed outside lessons Phones are allowed to be seen and used at break times and lunchtime -... --- - Published: 2021-12-09 - Modified: 2022-07-13 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/for-schools/school-mobile-phone-policies/school-mobile-phone-policy-votes/ We are currently compiling Vote results from the final quarter survey of 17,000 schools in 2021. Check back here shortly to see the results. Thank you for voting! Here are some up-to-date results, but votes are still coming in, so come back and check again in a few days. We will have a downloadable . pdf of full voting numbers and percentages by the end of the year. Do email hello@parentshield. co. uk with any other policies you have, and how they work for you. What mobile phone policies do schools implement? Please feel free to download the full report below and distribute as necessary. This year we have seen a larger than expected increase in the number of schools banning all smartphones, and also those that insist phones are handed in at reception in the morning and collected at the end of the day. Thanks to all the great schools who provided us their policy information. School_Phone_Policy_Survey-2Download --- - Published: 2021-09-27 - Modified: 2023-02-17 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/bereavement/ Let us know about a bereavement We're really sorry for your loss. We understand this is a difficult time and want to help you through your next steps as much as possible. Because of the nature of our service we will need to be contacted by the responsible adult who will be taking over the account or overseeing the transition to a different service. As soon as you are able, please talk to a member of our dedicated team by calling 0330 122 1180 and we will deal with any access, account closure, or account transfer that may be appropriate. We will make everything as straightforward as possible. --- - Published: 2021-08-10 - Modified: 2025-05-22 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/parentshield-portal/ The ParentShield Portal is the secure access point for ParentShield Customers. From your ParentShield Portal you can control and examine many features of the network, and the status of your child's SIM. The ParentShield Controls are unique and not available on any other network. Portal Login Here All the network settings for a ParentShield SIM are made remotely so you never have any issues accessing the SIM controls and no PIN numbers to *try* and keep secret. You can read all about the features of the ParentShield Portal, in the portal guide. Or log into the Portal. All settings and changes you make in the Portal are instantly active. This is because we operate our own voice and SMS platforms and don't need to send instructions up to the various networks on each change. You can try changing a setting, and make a call and instantly see that it's taken effect. We are constantly improving and adding features to the ParentShield Portal so please log in from time to time to see what's changed - or if you have a suggestion for a change to the ParentShield Portal, please do give us a call, or drop us an email. Most of the features we have came from similar suggestions from customers. On Suitable Safe Stage and Pro Stage Tariffs, there is also Celltower Tracking available. If you have multiple ParentShield SIM ONLY SIM accounts they can be managed from within a single Portal, or kept separate as required for convenience... --- - Published: 2021-06-14 - Modified: 2025-04-07 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/features-unlimited-calls-home/ ParentShield users can always call and text home ParentShield is SIM cards have special 'Home Numbers' that can always be called and texted, regardless of the remaining monthly call or text allowances, and regardless of any other restrictions that are set on the phone. Unlimited Calls Home and Unlimited Data for Tracking Parent numbers are always allowed for calls and texts. Home Numbers can be Landlines or Mobiles Home numbers work even if calls are blocked to other callers with time controls Home numbers can be set in unrecorded mode individually If data runs out on Roam Stage Tariffs (Roam Stage 2 and above), a single tap in your app instantly adds ample extra data - ideal for keeping location tracking or instant messaging active. On Safe Stages, upgrading or downgrading your plan is just as simple, giving you complete flexibility whenever you need it. PRICES AND PACKAGES PORTAL GUIDE The ParentShield Portal allows you to specify two 'Home Numbers' which can be landlines or standard UK '07' mobile numbers. These numbers are always available even after all the regular monthly allowances are used up. This way your child can always call home! Texts to the home numbers still count as part of the monthly allowance. In addition - Home numbers are special in that they cannot be inadvertently blocked by ParentShield's powerful call control settings. Home Numbers are always trusted users so it is possible to turn recording off individually for each of the numbers. Home numbers are also... --- - Published: 2021-05-28 - Modified: 2024-03-27 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/blocking-imessage-activation/ iMessage provides secure, unmonitorable communications iMessages are like WhatsApp messages in that they are encrypted and impossible for us to monitor, so iMessages will NOT appear in your ParentShield Portal. You can however use your web browser to monitor your child's WhatsApp if appropriate . Unrestricted access to iMessage and FaceTime is generally not recommended for younger children. Disabling iMessage to/from phone numbers is also a very Good Thing for any mobile phone that does not have permanent access to Mobile Data as this will provide a more stable connection. It will also mean that message threads are easier to read as they will all use the same channel. SMS. iMessage is not SMS iPhones are equipped with a 'unified messaging' platform they call "Messages". Imaginative. This application can send regular SMS - that are send and received over the cellular network asynchronously, and iMessage which is an encrypted, synchronous, internet-based instant messenger. In their wisdom Apple have made the two virtually indistinguishable from each other - as a rule, save the colour of the message bubble. A blue bubble for sent iMessage and a green bubble for sent SMS and a fetching ambivalent grey for incoming messages. Because Apple knows you probably don't care much what it is apart from what it says. They are so alike it's not unusual for new Apple users to be unaware that there is even a difference. iMessage to a Phone Number or an Email Address Unlike an SMS, iMessages can be sent... --- - Published: 2021-05-28 - Modified: 2025-05-08 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/monthly-rolling-contract/ No Tie-Ins, No Catches or Smallprint Capped SIM only deals from ParentShield are "Rolling Monthly" contracts. This means you are not tied into a lengthy capped SIM-Only contract and you can cancel at any time. However, you still get all the benefits of a Contract SIM and a Pay as you Go SIM all in one place. Cancel at any time - no tie-in or catches What's a monthly rolling contract? We understand that not everyone wants to commit to lengthy fixed term contract, as circumstances change and freedom and flexibility are important. That’s why we've made all of our SIM only contracts available on a rolling monthly basis so that you can cancel at anytime. A rolling monthly contract doesn't have a specific end date, so it’ll ‘roll on’ until you tell us that you would like to cancel. How does the billing work? Just like any ongoing monthly bill, payments are taken once a month of the agreed price, on the monthly anniversary of the original sign up date. Payments will be taken from the card you use to sign up or via direct debit if you prefer. You can change your payment options from within your account. How to cancel your contract? If you decide that you would like to cancel your contract, we require 30 days notice, this notice can be given by emailing us at hello@parentshield. co. uk or calling us on 0330 122 1180 . You can even use the Live Chat on the... --- - Published: 2021-05-28 - Modified: 2023-01-30 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/features-ultra-secure/ Control exactly who can call or be called, text or be texted ParentShield is the only Mobile Network with powerful call and SMS blocking and filtering built directly into the Network. Ultra Secure Features A key feature of the ParentShield Network is the Ultra Secure Call and SMS Blocking facility built into your ParentShield Portal. Restrict calls and SMS to Home Numbers Only Add an unlimited list of numbers to the Allow List Block Individual callers from calling or texting at the press of a single button All blocking administered remotely without needing to touch the phone Block all unknown callers Blocked callers stay blocked - even if they withhold their Caller-ID Number Neighbour Protection - Choose whether to block Number Neighbours PRICES AND PACKAGES PORTAL GUIDE Switch between the two Parentshield Blocking Modes The ParentShield Portal allows you to choose between two "modes" for your Child's mobile phone. Normal or "Ultra Secure". Change this behaviour as you need, by the flip of a single switch online in your ParentShield Portal. In Normal mode - the phone operates as you would expect any mobile phone to do. As a result, all callers are initially allowed, and you have the option to add as many numbers as you need, or all anonymous callers, to the block list. Once blocked, that number cannot call or text, and the ParentShield phone cannot call or text that number. In Ultra-Secure mode, ALL callers, apart from your designated Home Numbers, are blocked by default. In... --- - Published: 2021-05-27 - Modified: 2023-01-30 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/unique-monitoring-capabilities/ Monitor activity remotely  Each account has an optional Call and / or SMS recording function that allows the parent / carer to monitor activity remotely, without touching the phone.   Even if you don’t check the recordings regularly, you have the peace of mind knowing that, should the worst happen, the calls and text messages are there, archived securely for six months. Read all text messages In the text section of the portal you can see the timestamp of every SMS and who it was sent to, or from, along with a copy of the message. Even if the message is deleted from the phone it is still visible in the portal.   Listen back to any call In the calls section you can see the timestamp of every call to, or from the phone, along with a recording of the entire phone call. You have the option to listen to the call, delete it, or download the recording onto your computer if required. Be alerted Turn on the Words Alerts feature in your portal and all words used in any SMS message to, or from, the phone are scanned against your personal words alert list. Should any of the words used be potentially concerning, an SMS is sent to YOUR mobile phone, alerting you to log into your Portal and check out the conversation. Automatic abuse protection Allow ParentShield's special artificial intelligence to keep an extra eye on proceedings to spot potentially abusive child behaviour and alert you so you... --- - Published: 2021-05-27 - Modified: 2022-12-05 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/ultra-secure-mode/ Make a Mobile Phone Safe for Any Child ParentShield is unique in that it offers a network-level 'call firewall' as part of its service. It's something that is not normally a part of a mobile network infrastructure so we take this opportunity to explain its functionality in a little more detail. Under normal circumstances, the default behaviour of a telecoms network is designed to connect all calls that match the called party number. There is no network-level control of which numbers can call or be called. Any blocking functionality has to be set up on the mobile phone itself. While this works to a fashion, it's easily circumvented by the user of the mobile phone, and there is no control at the network level to prevent call redirection or CLI spoofing. Every phone is effectively a dozen or so key-presses away from speaking to virtually any other telephone in the world. That's great! If it's what you want. In the hands of a young person, possibly not. Every phone is effectively a dozen or so key-presses away from speaking to virtually any other telephone in the world. That's great! If it's what you want. In the hands of a young person, possibly not. When to use Ultra Secure mode Ultra Secure mode can be turned on instantly from the ParentShield Portal by activating the Ultra Secure Mode switch. This has the effect of instantly blocking at network level any number that isn't one of the two Home Numbers or has... --- - Published: 2021-05-27 - Modified: 2025-07-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/questions-care/ ParentShield Children in Care SIM Cards ParentShield for Children in Care Connects to the UK’s best network Live Cell Tower Location 24/7 Missing Person Support Higher Fair-Usage Limits Central Control of access and features Special Numbering and Security Implementations Mobile phone provision for Children and Young People in care poses special challenges. ParentShield understands that every use case is different and we set out to provide monitoring and control technology that is flexible enough to provide a service that respects the rights and expectations of all users. Where a contract is needed by a professional organisation, ParentShield will need to liaise with the care company Safeguarding and Purchasing lead personnel to ensure the features of a ParentShield SIM align with the mobile phone policies of the care organisation. As there are additional costs incurred in providing service in this capacity - staff training, handling multiple points of contact, compliance, audits, and providing support in the event of a child MISPER are a few examples - the Pro Plans are specifically designed to cover all the costs involved. Children in care tend to have additional communication needs compared to children in a home situation, and our Corporate Parenting specialists are available to assist. Call us on 03301221180 to discuss SIM cards for children in care if required Because an individual care home may have many managers and staff it's important that Head Office has full control and access over individual contracts. For obvious reasons ParentShield will need a role-based single point of... --- - Published: 2021-05-26 - Modified: 2023-01-30 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/features-recorded-sim/ ParentShield Recording Features SMS Recording and Call Recording are key parts of ParentShield's safeguarding capability. The majority of our customers never need to access recordings, but have the peace of mind that comes from knowing, should it become necessary, the recordings are there. Recorded SMS ParentShield SIM cards optionally record all SMS to and from the phone Even if a message or conversation is deleted from the phone it remains available for review by the responsible adult All access to SMS recordings is made via a secure remote interface and without needing access to the phone Two-Factor Authentication is available Emoji Supported Recorded Calls Where necessary and appropriate, ParentShield SIM cards will record all conversations from the phone Calls are archived for a maximum of 6 months, available for review in emergency situations Calls can be listened to via the Parentshield Portal or downloaded Special 'unrecorded' numbers can be set up to allow private conversations with trusted contacts All calls are stored Encrypted and securely and permanently deleted after six months. Prices and Packages Portal Guide Recorded Calls and SMS to safeguard phone users Not all phone users need this kind of monitoring, but for those that do, ParentShield is here to achieve this. Even if the SIM card is in a very basic 'feature phone', all Calls and SMS are recorded and securely stored for up to six months. The majority of ParentShield customers don't need to check these recordings, but have the peace of mind that, should the... --- - Published: 2021-05-26 - Modified: 2025-02-28 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/calls-texts-only-no-data/ No Data SIM cards - Calls and Texts Only Sim only no data tariffs from ParentShield are special child-safe no-data SIM plans and safe for users of all ages and levels of responsibility. Data and internet access can pose a significant safeguarding risk. Looking for a SIM card that can't use mobile data? No problem. Every ParentShield Account comes with an on online Parent Portal with powerful controls that allow you to remotely disable mobile data on your child's SIM card. This means you don't even need to touch the phone. You can completely disable mobile data, permanently, or turn it on and off remotely and instantly with the flick of a switch. Blocking Data is important in many cases - such as phones being used by young children. It also makes a phone safer for carrying to school and avoids 'pings' in the school bag causing problems. This flexibility means you can turn data off most of the time, but if you want to allow data - say to locate the phone with a tracking application - you can just log in, turn data on for that purpose, and then turn it back off again when you're done. Choose the Safe Stage 1 tariff below and we will disable Mobile Data for you, or simply select any of the standard Tariffs and when you log into the Portal, select the Data tab and turn Mobile Data off. No matter what the phone user does, mobile data will be unavailable.... --- - Published: 2021-05-26 - Modified: 2023-03-24 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/features-time-controls/ Control When a Child's Calls, Texts and Mobile Data are available Controlling the times and situations where a child can use a phone is a key part of teaching responsible use. Without touching the phone, ParentShield allows parents to control all calls, texts and mobile data. Bedtime Controls Control bedtime remotely from your online Portal Set Bedtime once and after this time the phone can not make or receive calls or SMS, or access Mobile Data The Special 'Home Numbers' are the only exception as these will always work under any circumstance At bedtime any calls in progress will be given a few minutes to terminate before being disconnected. Schoolblock A single switch in your online Portal allows you to enable SchoolBlock SchoolBlock stops all calls, texts and mobile data from working between the hours of 9am and 3pm Calls to or from Home will still work to allow for any emergency situations that may arise. PRICES AND PACKAGES PORTAL GUIDE Set time controls and relax Confiscating mobile phones at nighttime to prevent excessive use is a certain way to cause an argument. ParentShield provides an easy alternative. By negotiating usage times beforehand, the 'allow' times can easily be set in the portal and outside of these times the movie phone cannot access mobile data, and cannot call or be called, and cannot send or receive SMS messages. As the user grows, or for weekends or holidays, these times can be changed in a matter of seconds from the Online... --- - Published: 2021-05-26 - Modified: 2023-01-30 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/features-budgeting-spending/ Protect Against Excessive Spending or Usage ParentShield is the only Mobile Network that is perfect for children because it allows the Parent to take full control over spending. Unique spending controls give parents total peace of mind that there can never be a single unexpected bill, and powerful budgeting tools allow them to teach responsible usage and budgeting to their child. Data Budgeting Teach good habits and responsibility in mobile phone use Optional Daily Data Budgeting feature Reserve Data for your own use to locate the phone See daily data use from your Portal Spending Controls Automatically blocks ALL premium rate services All overseas numbers are unavailable in most circumstances. No unexpected bills ever. No ParentShield customer has ever received a bill that is unexpected Expensive or Premium Rate numbers are all blocked as are SMS Shortcode numbers designed for voting or donations Expensive and privacy-concerning MMS are always blocked PRICES AND PACKAGES PORTAL GUIDE ParentShield Customers are protected from all extra spending Every ParentShield SIM card is permanently prevented from incurring any extra charges whatsoever. There are no 'out of bundle' numbers, and expensive 'shortcode' SMS or MMS picture messages are all permanently disabled. Many customers come to us after a bad experience with an adult mobile network that has issued a huge surprise bill. The prices for ParentShield SIM contracts are all fixed and cannot be inflated under any circumstances. --- - Published: 2021-05-26 - Modified: 2025-02-26 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/features-roaming-sim/ Roaming SIM Features Imagine a child's mobile phone that doesn't suffer from 'not spots'. Having a great signal when your friends have no signal on theirs! ParentShield's Roaming SIM is constantly searching for a better connection from any of the available networks, and even works with 157 networks right across Europe with Super-Roaming enabled. Strongest Signal SIM The ParentShield Roaming SIM was designed originally for use by emergency services and priority lone workers. It's very special and unlike anything that most people experience. The ParentShield Roaming SIM Combines the coverage of not just one, but ALL of the networks in the country. This means ParentShield Roaming SIM cards are rarely without a great signal. In remote areas this is particularly appreciated by children and adults alike! If you have coverage concerns - call us: 0330 122 1180 for a chat Stay in touch ParentShield is the vital connection between you and your children. By choosing a ParentShield Roaming SIM, your Child's SIM will seamlessly switch between networks as the SIM moves from one area to another. This means your child can have a signal to call home in many places where they otherwise wouldn't. Home Numbers can be Landlines or Mobiles. PRICES AND PACKAGES PORTAL GUIDE --- - Published: 2021-05-26 - Modified: 2023-04-01 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/features-word-alerts/ Be Alerted if Concerning Words or Phrases are Used or a New Friend Appears ParentShield is the only Mobile Network that provides Parents with real-time alerts of potentially-concerning words or phrases used in their child's text messages. We can even alert you about every call and message if required. Because ParentShield operates within the Network, and not via an App, this works on ANY mobile phone or smart watch, with or without Internet access. It can also notify you as soon as a phone reconnects to a network after a period of disconnection for maximum peace of mind or if your child strikes up a communication with someone new. Word Alert Features Every ParentShield Account features a powerful SMS word alert feature. You can maintain your own personal dictionary of words, phrases and abbreviations that would give you cause for concern were they to be used in any message to or from your child.  When they are detected, ParentShield sends an SMS to YOUR phone, alerting you of the fact and allowing you to log into your Portal to review the content and conversation. With the ParentShield App installed on your phone - you can fine-tune notifications from being alerted about every call and text, down to just ones to new correspondents. PRICES AND PACKAGES PORTAL GUIDE The Word Alerts setting allows you to enter Trigger Words which will be matched against every SMS that goes to or from the ParentShield SIM. The trigger words are aggressively matched so entering... --- - Published: 2021-05-25 - Modified: 2025-11-23 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/call-recording-privacy/ ParentShield takes privacy seriously ParentShield's mission is to provide a protective mobile network that provides protection that is not available from a mainstream 'adult' mobile network. As a result, the network has many features and controls unavailable on any other Network. The laws regarding privacy and data protection are complex and wide-ranging. And so, ParentShield has been developed taking into account ( but not exclusively ) reading: ICO Age-Appropriate App Design Code Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 Children Act 1989 The Data protection Act 2018 ( GDPR ) The Human Rights Act 1998 ParentShield network is a closed group mobile network that is only available for safeguarding purposes. ParentShield is not a regular public telephone network and, accordingly, accounts are strictly available only to those individuals determined to require protection not available on a traditional mobile network. All understanding and reading of appropriate legislation is made in this context. Our users are always those under the care of responsible others. Every customer is individually approved against these requirements and Engine Mobile Ltd. reserves the right to terminate any account that is considered to be being used for any other purpose. See https://parentshield. co. uk/terms-and-conditions/ for more details. ParentShield has strictly monitored internal procedures to ensure compliance with our requirements. On an ongoing basis the network employs advanced heuristics to ensure ongoing compliance. As a result, ParentShield is able to provide safe recording that can not be provided on a normal 'adult' network. Call Recording A key protective measure provided... --- - Published: 2021-05-24 - Modified: 2025-02-27 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/sim-only/ Rolling Monthly Contracts.  No overspending is possible - these are the prices you pay. There is no way the user can ever run up a surprise bill. Change tariff any time you like. The UK's Best Mobile Network. All the SIMs on this page are Single Network UK-Native SIM cards running on the EE network. If you are looking for the award-winning ParentShield all-network SIM cards click here. Safe Stage 1 Features: Runs on the UK’s best Mobile Network Call & Text Recording Time Restrictions Home Numbers * Word Alerts Internet restrictions Spending Controls Ultra Secure Mode ADD TO CART Safe Stage 2 Features: Runs on the UK's Best Mobile Network Call & Text Recording Time Restrictions Word Alerts Internet restrictions Spending Controls Ultra Secure Mode Turn Data on and off Remotely Also Available as a NO DATA SIM ADD TO CART Safe Stage 3 Features: Runs on the Best UK Mobile Network Call & Text Recording Time Restrictions Word Alerts Internet restrictions Spending Controls Ultra Secure Mode Turn Data on and off Remotely ADD TO CART Safe Stage 4 Features: Runs on the UK's best Mobile Network Call & Text Recording Time Restrictions Word Alerts Internet restrictions Spending Controls Ultra Secure Mode Turn Data on and off Remotely ADD TO CART Unlimited SIM for Children Safe Stage 5 Features: Runs on the UK's best Mobile Network Call & Text Recording Time Restrictions Word Alerts Internet restrictions Spending Controls Ultra Secure Mode Turn Data on and off Remotely ADD TO... --- - Published: 2021-05-23 - Modified: 2022-07-13 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/mobile-phone-only-call-parents/ Would you like to be able to give a mobile phone to a child, so they can call home and be called by home, but don't want the phone to be able to call, or be called by anyone else? That's exactly what the ParentShield Child-Safe Mobile Network allows you to do. It also restricts SMS in the same way and you can turn off Mobile Data completely. A Walled-Garden Network This implementation is a version of a Closed User Group Mobile network - sometimes referred to as a "walled garden" for that's just what it is - a safe place in the telephone network where children can communicate safely, and only with people who are, themselves in that group. Because ParentShield operates Network-Side, all this can be achieved without changing any settings on the phone. Just by inserting the ParentShield SIM card into an unlocked phone, the account holder ( the parents or guardians ) can control the phone's network behaviour completely. You can determine what numbers can call, or be called and even set time limits to block all calls and texts at bedtime or other times, such as school times. Setting these features up on a smartphone is possible, to a fashion, but it will mean that the user could potentially change the settings - on purpose or by accident - and it will be necessary to confiscate the phone every time a change is required. The ParentShield Portal is open 24/7 and it's simple to add... --- - Published: 2021-05-23 - Modified: 2022-07-13 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/teen-mobile-secrets-exposed/ The Teen Mobile dangers of Growing Up With Technology Teen Mobile Sexting, grooming, and catfishing are shockingly more common than many parents realise. Kids and teenagers today have to deal with new experiences and dangers that we didn't have when we were younger. Growing up has changed. So, modern parents need to know the new risks of technology and mobile phones - before it is too late. Leaving the first mobile phone until they are just entering their teen years is potentially a source of problems according to ParentShield. Shocking 'Sexting' Think your teen's mobile wont be affected by sexting? Well the stats say otherwise. It's by far more common than you may think. According to a UK survey on teenage mobile phone habits 6/10 UK youths have been asked to send a sexual image or video of themselves. Shockingly, 25% of those asked actually did send an explicit image of themselves. Even more shockingly, 1/3rd of those who sent an image, sent it to a someone they knew online but not in real life. How would your child feel if an image they had shared privately ended up online or being sent around their whole school? Well sadly, 20% of teen ‘sexters’ who had shared an image with someone, knew that person had then shared it with others. Unfortunately the sad truth is that anything shared online, over text or through apps can be saved and used to harass, blackmail or embarrass your child, which can be really devastating.... --- - Published: 2021-05-23 - Modified: 2023-08-03 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/biggest-risks/ More Information The Biggest Risks from Modern Mobile Phones The New Dangers of Growing Up With Technology Kids and teens today are growing up in a completely different world - they face problems that we didn't have when we were younger. Modern parents have a duty to their children to know the risks that come with technology and mobile phones, before it is too late. Sexting Think your child wont be affected by sexting? Well the stats disagree, and the consequences can be serious. According to a UK survey on teenage mobile phone habits 6/10 UK youths have been asked to send a sexual image or video of themselves. Shockingly, 25% of those asked actually did send an explicit image of themselves. Even more shockingly, 1/3rd of those who sent an image, sent it to a someone they knew online but not in real life. Unfortunately the sad truth is that anything shared online, over text or through apps can be saved and used to harass, blackmail or embarrass your child, which can be really distressing. School Performance ParentShield SIM cards are recommended by schools Studies have shown that when children stay up on their mobile phones this can dramatically affect their school performance. A good nights sleep, without the distractions of a mobile, will help your child achieve their potential. If your child has a ParentShield SIM the SchoolBlock facility can be used to prevent use during school hours. Cyberbullying Online bullying is a growing problem for UK youths,... --- - Published: 2021-05-23 - Modified: 2025-05-03 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/sample-mobile-contract-parents-children/ Here is an example mobile phone contract that you might like to copy and modify as required to start off your discussion about mobile phone use and responsibilities with your child. Feel free to copy this and paste it into your own document for editing, or download the PDF or Word versions linked below. We strongly advise that any monitoring or control takes place in partnership with the young person. Looking for a kids phone contract? See the features of ParentShield MOBILE PHONE CONTRACT FOR A CHILD This contract is confirmation that are providing a mobile phone to for protection purposes.   As this creates a number of other dangers, it will be issued on a fully monitored and recorded service for further protection until such time that you are ready for a standard ‘adults’ mobile service. This agreement outlines responsibilities and consequences. Responsibilities of Child; I will keep my phone charged at all times. I will answer or respond promptly when my parents contact me. I understand that I am responsible for knowing where my phone is, and for keeping it in good condition. I will keep the phone locked when not in use and never share my password with anyone. Information for child There is no need to share my phone's password with my parents as they can use an online portal to check my phone at any time. Threatening or mean texts to others will be visible to my parents from within their online portal (even if... --- - Published: 2021-05-22 - Modified: 2024-03-21 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/block-mobiles-during-school-hours/ Distracted by a mobile phone at school? A new Mobile Network in the UK has become the first to offer "SchoolBlock" a simple single switch that blocks calls, SMS and mobile data for their children's mobile phones during school hours. Being network based, the block cannot be circumvented - even by the most tech-savvy of children. ParentShield's For Schools page contains a range of downloadable resources that Schools can pass to Parents to inform them that ParentShield is available. Every child with SchoolBlock is one less problem in the classroom. Many people search for the idea of some radio-jammer type blocking device that could be employed on school grounds, but sadly such a device would be illegal to operate in the UK. Mobile phones operate in close radio proximity to many essential services, and a jammer would potentially cause serious disruption. The Mobile Phone network in the UK also covers a wide range of wavelengths from the 37cm 800MHz band down to the 16cm 1800 MHz band for regular 4G. To block all these frequencies would require quite an operation ( or a single very dirty device ). ParentShield's Solution is simply time-based. Parents can turn on SchoolBlock and between 9am and 3PM their children's mobile phones are unavailable for calls, texts or mobile data. As the controls are network-side they are completely un-circumventable. Safer than phone pouches or shielding The problem with using Mobile phone shielding pouches is their effectiveness varies. Modern mobile phones operate on frequencies from 2,000... --- - Published: 2021-05-21 - Modified: 2024-12-20 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/resellers/ If you're a mobile phone retailer and you'd like to find out more about stocking our SIMs, or you are a Mobile Phone professional and you recommend us to your customers, contact us. We have one-off commission payments available, or an ongoing monthly revenue. Because we have a validation requirement for the majority of sales it's not quite as simple as pinning up a card of SIM cards by the till, but we'd love to hear from you and hear what you're doing so we can explore any potential growth opportunities. We have an affiliate program through Affiliate Window that you can join here. We may also be able to help if you're looking to start up your own MVNO. If you're interested - give us a call on 0330 1221180, or drop us an email to hello@parentshield. co. uk with some brief details about your business and some contact information and we'll call straight back. SIM cards can be stocked or posted to your customers --- - Published: 2021-05-21 - Modified: 2025-06-12 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/for-schools/ A ParentShield SIM can be instantly blocked from calls, texts or mobile data at school Download pdf documents here and share with parents Please feel free to share our Webinar wherever appropriate. Use the link: https://youtu. be/Y1BEGxpGCr0? si=SlAMmcAqMzuTpEFS which can be distributed via social media or WhatsApp year Groups. ParentShield Brochure Safely Introducing a first Mobile Sample Mobile Phone Contract What Phone is safe for what age Phone Watch Guide Important WhatsApp Safety TikTok Family Pairing Parent Email Creative You can also view, convert and download all of these pdf on our Issuu page: https://issuu. com/parentshield At ParentShield we are very aware of the issues that Schools face from Mobile Phones at School. We want to help. ParentShield is all about teaching responsible phone usage. We believe, that, by providing the right features and the right information we can be a big help. For Instance every ParentShield account is equipped with SchoolBlock, a single button Parents can press in their online account that Blocks ALL calls, SMS, and Mobile Data on their child's phone during School hours - ParentShield easily makes any phone a School Proof Phone. We would like to send you a box ( or two! ) of our brochures to distribute to Parents. Providing access and information about a Safe Mobile Network is a great way of kicking off that difficult and inevitable conversation about Mobile Phones. Giving Parents the tools to control use at school and monitor their children's communications makes the introduction of safe school... --- - Published: 2021-05-21 - Modified: 2025-03-24 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/corporate/ We are: Engine Mobile Ltd. Pioneer House, Derby, DE73 7HL. Co. Reg. 10697643 VAT: GB297931349 Engine Mobile ParentShield are an MVNO - A Mobile Virtual Network Operator; but we're not totally virtual! We produce SIM cards that are true UK roaming. They will connect to whichever network is the strongest, wherever you are. This provides the very best signal and network available. We are telephone system developers and programmers and proudly own and secure our own interchange hardware that links to the other networks. That's how we can cram so many features into our service. ParentShield doesn't only provide outstanding mobile coverage, but a unique and highly powerful ability to record all activity to and from our SIMs. We provide this service to help parents & guardians keep their children safe & record any inappropriate activity with a child. All of the SIMs activity is reviewed & controlled by the account holder from a secure online account, away from the child's phone. The child will have no way of bypassing or deleting recordings. About Engine Mobile's ParentShield MVNO The ParentShield network is a division of Engine Mobile Holdings Ltd. - the pioneering UK market leader of online sales generation through the provision of online pricing systems and the innovative telecoms and systems that power it. We developed the first online 'price engine' in 1999 which has been used to provide over 2 million quotations since that time. The Company has gone on to develop call centre and telephony solutions, including... --- - Published: 2021-05-21 - Modified: 2026-02-05 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/terms-and-conditions/ Outline of the Agreement at a glance A Mobile Network designed around the usage and needs of a 6-16 year old. A rolling Monthly contract re-billed in advance of each month. See notes on number porting below. Cancel at any time All recordings securely destroyed on closure of account Terms and Conditions - ParentShield Platform General In this agreement, Us and We refer to:Engine Mobile Ltd. Pioneer HouseDerby RoadBARROW-ON-TRENTDerbyDE73 7HLCompany Reg. No. 10697643We use You and Customer to refer to yourself. Outline of the Agreement A rolling Monthly contract paid in advance of each month. See our Satisfaction Guarantee and Porting Terms below. We will provide a private telecommunications service through the provision of a SIM card that allows access to the ParentShield Portal system and onwards to the PSTN ( Public Switched Telephone Network ). This is a private and personal product designed for the protection of Children or vulnerable user groups and may not be resold under any circumstances. Billing will be made in advance at the start of each monthly period from the authorised payment card or by Direct Debit. You are responsible for these costs even if the mobile device or password is lost, damaged or stolen. The subscription is due regardless of whether the mobile phone or service is used or not, and can not be refunded as network costs are incurred regardless of whether the service is used. Cash top-up balances are also used to advance-purchase network service so are also non-refundable. You are... --- - Published: 2021-05-21 - Modified: 2024-09-11 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/fair-use-policy/ ParentShield Network Fair Use Policy This policy describes the intended usage of the Service. The Service is intended only for the usage for which it has been designed and it's important for the stability of the service, and the safety of all users that the Service is used for the purpose it has been designed. Continued excessive usage may result in additional charges, however, as we guarantee no surprise bills, we will be in contact with the account holder to ensure they are aware there is a problem and discuss. This necessarily means that other protections need to be in place and it is always our intention to work closely with Subscribers to be able to provide a suitable safeguarding network. Intended use The Service is intended for personal, non-commercial use as a mobile telecommunications service for the education, communication and protection of young ( 6-12 years of age ) or vulnerable users with a similar usage profile. It shall not be re-sold, re-purposed or used in any other way. SIM use The ParentShield SIM card may only be used in a single, personal, hand-held mobile telephone by a child or other vulnerable person of the age and special requirements declared by the Customer. It may not be used in a SIM gateway device or connected to any other device, computer, network or system or for any other purpose. It may not be modified. Any Artificial Inflation of Traffic, or usage that is excessive or illegal will result in termination... --- - Published: 2021-05-21 - Modified: 2022-07-13 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/code-of-practice/ Code of Practice - ParentShield Platform General This page explains how Engine Mobile Ltd. works to resolve any complaints or service issues customers may encounter. Things can always go wrong, and no matter how hard we try, there may always be situations where things go wrong. We want to put things right. Equality Engine Mobile Limited is committed to fairness and equality. Our team is trained in equality awareness and a core principle states that equality sea fairness will always be part of every decision making process. Outline of the Agreement Please refer to the terms and conditions page and the fair use policy. These are available always via this website and are sent with the SIM card. Complaint handling - first step The first and most important step is to tell us about it. If you're unhappy about something then the chances are, something has gone wrong, and we don't know about it. You can call us on 0330 1221180, email hello@parentshield. co. uk, or by using the contact form on this website at https://parentshield. co. uk/contact/ . In almost all cases we should resolve the issue there and then. If we can't we will let you know what steps we will be taking and agree a time-scale. Complaint handling - second step If you think you've given us reasonable chance to fix things, and you're still not happy, then please email details to our director, Graham Tyers ( md@engine-mobile. co. uk ). If the situation is fixable, it... --- - Published: 2021-05-21 - Modified: 2022-07-13 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/should-a-child-have-a-mobile-phone/ Yes. Children of ALL ages CAN have a mobile phone! Mobile phones have become a modern necessity for children, and being able to call home or the emergency services at any time arguably makes them far safer than without. However, personal communication devices bring a wide range of dangers and worries for both children and parents. To address this, we have developed our service to allow children to have a phone, but also give parents peace of mind that their child is safe! We believe that a child should have their own mobile, so that they can always be in contact with home, their parents, and the emergency services if necessary. Safe and responsible mobile phone usage and ownership isn't something to leave to chance. Engine Mobile provides that safe teaching platform that allows parents to set an appropriate level of features for every child. Of any age. Can Even 7 or 8 Year olds have a Mobile Phone? Normally, we think that the dangers of phone ownership at these ages outweigh the benefits. But Engine Mobile has been designed specifically with this in mind. Using Engine Mobile's powerful controls it's possible to restrict a phone to only being able to call home, or being called by home. It can be set to work between certain hours, and data can be turned off completely. Because Engine Mobile is a SIM-based service, these features work with any telephone - even a £10. 00 'disposable' phone, so should the phone be lost... --- - Published: 2021-05-21 - Modified: 2022-07-13 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/child-has-locked-their-phone-need-a-puk/ For help call 0330 122 1180 or email hello@parentShield. co. uk What is a PUK? PUK stands for Pin Unlock Key. It's the "master reset" code for a SIM that is needed to change the SIM PIN, or recover the SIM should the SIM PIN have ben tried incorrectly too many times. At ParentShield, we know how keen little fingers can be to explore and test every feature --- often with unintended consequences! How to get your PUK The PUK is hard coded onto the SIM card in the factory as the SIM is forged. If you need one for your Child's SIM, then don't guess it, just contact your Mobile company and they'll be able to provide it. In the case of ParentShield you can get the PUK for your child's SIM from within your Parentshield Portal. It's under: Settings --> SIM Information. The ParentShield PUK can also be obtained via the website live chat, telephone or email. ( Numbers above ) What is a SIM PIN? A phone that's been locked may need a PUK Every mobile phone has the ability to apply a 'SIM Lock' to the SIM card that is in the phone. The SIM Lock is a 4 to 8 digit SIM PIN that, when locking is turned on, will need to be entered to use or access the data in the SIM and make or receive calls. This means the SIM PIN has to be entered whenever the phone is powered up, or if... --- - Published: 2021-05-21 - Modified: 2025-04-07 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/using-too-much-data/ Why is my Child using too much mobile data? It's *very* common for a child to use too much mobile data. However, a few simple checks and routines will make a huge difference. Many people's response to a child ( or themselves ) using too much data is "I need a bigger data allowance". It's possibly true, but the truth is that if you don't properly control the usage of mobile data, virtually no allowance will be big enough. And for vulnerable users, big data means big risks, so we thought it may be useful to talk about ways to keep data usage in check. ParentShield is a different type of mobile network. We're here to help Parents teach their children - on their first mobile phone - how to responsibly and properly use their mobile device for the things it's great for, and not wanting to provide a mobile phone as a babysitting device designed for watching endless TikTok videos. Fortunately there are things we can do! ParentShield Roam Stage SIM's have some special data control features such as daily data budgeting but first, probably best to look at a general list of things to do on any mobile network. Reducing Child's Data Bill Use WiFi wherever possible but don't encourage connection to unknown hotspots or those that encourage you to share personal information or passwords. If your child understands how to create a unique password and preferably a unique username for each trusted hotspot, then fine, but it's... --- - Published: 2021-05-21 - Modified: 2025-06-26 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/portal-guide/ ParentShield gives you access to a Portal, that allows you to view the call & text history, listen to all calls, read all texts, change the settings of internet access, create a block list and limit the times that the phone can be used. For details of changes and system updates see the changelog at: https://parentshield. co. uk/changes/ ParentShield Features Demonstration https://youtu. be/u40MVeZl92E? si=gdoIZ2IqzZKHYF_h Recording and Reviewing Calls and Text Messages In the Text section of your portal, you can see the exact date & time of all texts, who the text was sent to, or from, and a copy of each message. This is an important part of your portal as a large amount of bullying and abuse can take place over text messages rather than phone calls. MMS (Picture messages) are completely blocked from being sent to or from the SIM user, as we believe this will help to reduce the risk of your child or vulnerable person being exposed to inappropriate content. SMS messages deleted from the phone will remain in the Portal for review. If you feel that a person sending texts to your child's phone should be blocked, this can be easily done by clicking on the number you wish to block and then click on "Add to Block List" In the Calls section of your portal, you can see the exact date & time of all calls, who the call was made to, or from, and a recording of the entire phone call. You... --- - Published: 2021-05-20 - Modified: 2023-01-30 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/unlocking-guide/ Unlocking a Mobile for a Child will be necessary If a phone is locked to a particular network. It will only work with a SIM card issues by that network. This means that if you want to hand your second-hand phone down to a child, and use a different network to the one that provided the phone - you can't. Luckily most mobile phones can be unlocked easily, and this guide will talk you through the simple process and allow you to unlock the mobile phone successfully and quickly. And hopefully, without cost. Is the phone locked? and how do you tell? The best way is to insert the ParentShield SIM. If it works, then it's unlocked. Some mobile phone providers will charge you for unlocking a mobile phone, this is dependent on how long you've had the phone and whether the phone is pay as you go (PAYG) or on a monthly contract. As it's the old adult mobile network that has locked the phone, their help system may be able to provide order guidance, but here is what we know. A true SIM for Kids will work in any unlocked phone so it's worth going through the motion and we advise unlocking your mobile phone while you are using it yourself, on the network that it's locked to. That way you are able to authenticate the phone easily through your own mobile contract before passing a phone on to a child. Occasionally Networks will say they have unlicked... --- - Published: 2021-05-20 - Modified: 2023-01-30 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/system-status/ If there are any issues affecting service that we're aware of, they'll be reported below. Like all services, things can occasionally go wrong, but if they do you can be sure we're on to it. Email us at hello@parentshield. co. uk if you think there's something we need to know about. MOBILE NETWORKS STATUS: OK RECORDING CLUSTERS STATUS: GOOD PARENTSHIELD SUPPORT STATUS: GOOD --- - Published: 2021-05-20 - Modified: 2025-09-19 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/changes/ Latest Network Changes and Developments 2025-09-18 You can now order a replacement for a lost, damaged or stolen SIM, or an additional SIM for another young person becoming ready for their first phone, through the Portal. Look for the links in the "Billing" tab (the one with the "pound note" icon, if you are using a mobile device in portrait mode). 2025-06-23 The Single Network SIM now has camping on for busy phones. If you are calling your child and they are busy. You will hear the busy call announcement - but no need to hang up. We will re-attempt the call and connect ups if possible. 2025-06-18 Adjustments to SMS to improve handling of SMS sent to phones that are turned off at the time. 2025-06-13 Server-Room updates to install a huge pile of batteries and big UPS to give us 10 times as much autonomy in the case of a power outage. 2025-05-13 Sorry - it's been a while since updating this. Speed Catchup: We now have our new EE-Only Single Network SIM properly in production with thousands of users already. Data Bundles up to Unlimited Data 2024-09-30 5G! - We turned 5G on for all customers this weekend. 5G on EE might follow in stages but is available and working well. 2024-08-27 We've made a slight change to the way the "Manage Block List" and "Manage Safe List" functions (in the "Settings" tab of the portal) work, to make it harder to remove numbers accidentally. The "delete"... --- - Published: 2021-05-20 - Modified: 2026-01-09 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/help-for-current-customers/ If you have a ParentShield SIM and are experiencing any problems, we are here to help. Call us on : 03301221180email us : hello@parentshield. co. uk How do I activate my SIM? Your SIM will already be activated and be ready for you to use when it arrives. You will just need to break it down to the correct size and insert it into your child's phone. Your username & random, temporary password will be delivered with your SIM. We highly recommend that you change your password to something that you'll easily remember, is a minimum of 15 characters long and is a mixture of letters, numbers & punctuation. For help completing the security setup process see: https://parentshield. co. uk/setup-help/ How do I change the portal password? If you are logged into the https://my. engine-mobile. co. uk portal click on "SETTINGS" in the green tab bar at the top. Then under the Personal Information section. Just under the form you will see the reset link. Alternatively, if you are unable to log in. you can use the "Forgot Password? " link on the login form. You will need the email address provided at registration. Cancelling For the moment - please just drop us an email, or call, or use the web chat. We'll get around to making this a self-service thing before long. We also have higher data tariffs available for existing customers so let us know if that's what you need. The SIM is connecting on a different network... --- - Published: 2021-05-19 - Modified: 2022-07-12 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/first-phone-questions/ A child's first phone FAQ Most of ParentShield’s users are getting their first phone and phone number. Here are some questions we have been asked. If you have other questions, telephone: 0330 122 1180 or email: hello@parentshield. co. uk, and we’ll be delighted to help. Do I need a SIM for my child's phone? Not necessarily, but if you want it to work as you need, and want them to have a phone number, then yes, your child's phone will need a SIM card, just like yours does. Can I block mobile phone use at school? Yes. ParentShield SIM cards have "SchoolBlock" which allows parents to block all calls, SMS and mobile data during school hours. While Schoolblock is active, Home Numbers can always be called and texted, and can call and text the phone so the child has the peace of mind they need while away from home. The phone becomes a security tool, and not a distraction. What age do children get their first phone (UK)? In the UK, the average age for a first phone is between 10 and 11. Usually before moving up to Big School. ParentShield allows parents to safely provide a phone to a child younger than this - and ParentShield users start from as young as 5 or 6. What is the minimum age to have a phone (UK)? There is no minimum legal age in the UK to have or use a mobile phone and at ParentShield we believe all children should have a... --- - Published: 2021-05-19 - Modified: 2025-05-03 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/data-guide/ To be able to use mobile data with a ParentShield SIM card, you may need to set the data settings manually. For our Roaming SIM, you'll need to switch data roaming on and set the Access Point Name (APN) to dataconnect. For our Single Network SIM, you'll need to set the Access Point Name (APN) to em. movedata. mobi. Please also make sure that mobile data is switched on in the ParentShield portal. Every phone is different, so we have listed the steps on the most common devices below. You may wish to refer to the manual for the phone you're setting up. If you need help, give us a call on 0330 122 1180, email hello@parentshield. co. uk or start a live chat when you have the phone to hand and we can help. Single Network SIM Android Samsung Open the Settings app. Tap on Connections. Tap on Mobile networks. Set Network mode to 5G/LTE/3G/2G (auto connect) (or 5G/4G/3G/2G (auto connect)). If there is no 5G option, set it to LTE/3G/2G (auto connect) (or 4G/3G/2G (auto connect). Tap into Access Point Names. Tap on Add. Enter as follows:Name: em. movedata. mobiAPN: em. movedata. mobi Tap the three dots and tap on Save. Make sure the new em. movedata. mobi entry is selected. Keep tapping Back until you get to the main Settings and close the Settings app. Fully power the phone off and back on to make sure the new settings take effect. If it is still not working... --- - Published: 2021-05-18 - Modified: 2022-07-13 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/privacy-policy/ Privacy and the safe handling of personal data are important. This page contains important information about the types of data that we use, how it is used, and what you can do to work with us to resolve any issues that arise. The data we use and keep: Data to identify you and ensure that we can detect and prevent fraudData to progress and deliver your orderSending you service updates and notificationsData collected regarding calls, SMS and data generated by use of your serviceInformation that allows us to know you as a customer and ensure that we can continue to develop features that you want Who we are? In this Privacy Policy references to "We" and "Us" are to Engine Mobile Ltd, Pioneer House, Stenson Road, Stenson, Derby, DE73 7HL. (Owners and copyright holders of the ParentShield system and Trade Mark. )The purpose of this statement is to set out how we use personal information that we may obtain about you. By either registering as a user of any services provided by Us on this website and by using any of our services generally, you should understand that we will presume you have understood and agree to this use. What information we collect and howThe information we collect via this website may include: Any personal details you type in and submit such as name, address, email address, etc. Data which allows us to recognise you, your preferences and how you use this website. This saves you from re-entering information when... --- - Published: 2021-05-18 - Modified: 2025-11-19 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/contact/ Call us 0330 122 1180 | Monday - Saturday During office hours our team is here in the contact centre. Outside of those hours we pick up calls in the external call centre or from our offices remotely. There will always be a chance to leave a message. The appropriate department will always return your call. Email hello@parentshield. co. uk Live Chat If we're logged in and available ( usually 8am - 8pm ) you will find a live chat icon like the one above, somewhere towards the bottom of the page. See you there! Offices Pioneer House, Stenson Road, Derby, DE73 7HLFind ParentShield on Google Socials https://linktr. ee/parentshield Send us a message or visit us If you're ever on the South Side of Derby, you're more than welcome to visit us. The kettle is always on. Our place is the big building behind the Stenson Bubble Inn ( The building with the clock on the front. ) This is our centre of operations, data centre and support and contact centre. If you are ordering a SIM card, we post every normal business day at around 4pm. If it’s a bank holiday or other holiday period such as Christmas or Easter and you’re in a desperate hurry for a SIM card – give us a call on 0330 122 1180 or email hello@parentshield. co. uk and we’ll do everything we can to have a SIM ready for collection. For urgent police enquiries contact our SPoC using the emergency contact details... --- - Published: 2021-05-18 - Modified: 2026-01-08 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/questions-2/ ParentShield in 60 Seconds... Here are ( just some! ) of the questions we have been asked. We have some other specific FAQ pages as well, such as the FAQ for buying a first phone, to try and make things as easy to find as possible, so please have a browse through them. We are available to answer anything that comes to mind though - Telephone: 0330 122 1180 or email: hello@parentshield. co. uk What is ParentShield ParentShield is a new breed of mobile telephone service, designed to help parents and guardians protect children and vulnerable people from the risks that are associated with them having their own phone. Our service provides parents and guardians with the ability to listen to all telephone calls, read all SMS texts and limit the internet access through an online portal. This service works in the same way as a normal SIM would for the child or vulnerable person, but provides important safety benefits. The end user is not presumed to have any authority to change settings, billing profiles or authenticate in any way. When balance gets low it’s the Parent’s phone that is alerted. PIN numbers are never sent to the phone and the phone user can never place orders or make topups. With a normal mobile phone contract this is far too easy to do! ParentShield will also never install offer or advertising Apps on your child’s phone. Some phone networks do this and will promote adult services to the phone such... --- - Published: 2021-05-18 - Modified: 2022-10-18 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/blog/ Useful Blog posts by ParentShield SIM Staff and customers --- --- ## Posts - Published: 2026-01-22 - Modified: 2026-01-22 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/latest-updates-on-the-under-16s-social-media-ban/ Over recent months, the conversation in the UK about children and social media has shifted from “discussion” to decisive political movement. Concern is no longer just about parental preference, it’s now being debated as a serious wellbeing and safeguarding issue in Parliament, in schools, and across public life. What’s just happened in Parliament - the latest update In a major development reported by the BBC, peers in the House of Lords voted strongly in favour of an amendment that would ban social media for under-16s as part of the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill. This follows international models - notably Australia - that have already moved to restrict under-16 access. Although the amendment does not yet become law, the bill now returns to the House of Commons for further consideration. The scale of support in the Lords shows momentum is building and the political consensus on the need for action is strengthening. Government ministers have also signalled they intend to consider a range of measures, from raising age verification standards to potentially adopting a formal minimum age with enforcement. This combination of strong cross-bench support for a ban and current government consultation plans, reflects a broader public understanding that the status quo is failing many young children. Why restricting social media for under-16s makes sense Social media platforms are not neutral tools, they are designed to capture attention, often through endless scrolls, notifications, algorithmic feeds and features that make it hard for children to disengage. For young people whose brains are still developing, this can contribute... --- - Published: 2026-01-13 - Modified: 2026-01-13 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/going-on-holiday-with-parentshield/ Treating yourself to a well deserved holiday is always a wonderful idea, though we know it can sometimes be stressful. Navigating mobile networks while traveling abroad can add an extra layer of complexity. But at ParentShield, we believe ‘complicated’ has no place in a service like ours. So, sit back, relax, and discover how we make holidays simpler, safer, and truly enjoyable for families. Protect Your Pockets Abroad with ParentShield When it comes to using your ParentShield SIM abroad, we’ve made things straightforward. Any usage outside the UK is subject to zone-based roaming charges, just like standard mobile practice. This applies to both Roam Stage SIM cards and Safe Stage plans, and needs to be enabled for the phone to work while traveling. The charges are fixed depending on the destination and duration of stay, giving you full control over calls, texts, and mobile data overseas. And, as always with ParentShield, our no-overspending guarantee means you won’t face unexpected bills. If roaming isn’t enabled, the phone simply won’t connect abroad. No roaming, no charges, no surprises. Booking Your Holiday with ParentShield Yes, it is that easy. Log in to your ParentShield Portal Make your way over to the 'Holiday' tab (may also be labelled with a Aeroplane image depending on the device in use) Select the user Set the day of arrival and the day of departure Select the location Ensure you add the selected request Make payment What Countries are Available with ParentShield? ParentShield have two different type of... --- - Published: 2026-01-12 - Modified: 2026-01-13 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/network-selection-help/ Learn the key differences between ParentShield SIM plans and choose the right mobile network and tariff for your needs. You are likely visiting this page because you are unsure which ParentShield SIM plan is best suited to your needs. ParentShield currently offers two SIM options, each designed for different coverage and data requirements: All-Network Roaming SIM EE Network Only SIM Understanding the differences between these two options will help you choose the most suitable SIM for your child’s device. The All-Network Roaming SIM is our original and most flexible option. It is designed to provide the best possible mobile coverage across the UK. This SIM can connect to all four UK mobile networks: EE Vodafone Three O2 Your phone will automatically switch between these networks to use the strongest available signal in any given location. This makes the All-Network Roaming SIM ideal if: Coverage in your area is inconsistent or unreliable You regularly experience signal dropouts You want maximum coverage flexibility rather than large data allowances If EE coverage in your area is weak, or mobile signal is generally patchy, this SIM is usually the best choice. If coverage is not a concern and you require larger data allowances, we recommend choosing an EE Network Only SIM. This SIM connects exclusively to the EE network, rather than roaming across multiple networks. By operating on a single network, we are able to offer higher data tariffs. The EE Network Only SIM is well suited for: Existing All-Network SIM users who are ready to upgrade to larger allowances Users who live in areas with strong EE coverage Customers who need higher data bundles Due to the technical... --- - Published: 2026-01-12 - Modified: 2026-01-13 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/o2-childs-sim/ Are you looking for an O2 only SIM card for a child but with ParentShield controls? ParentShield's All-Network SIM Tariffs will do this. You will have access to O2 coverage, plus all the unique features and benefits that only come with ParentShield. With the added benefit of the SIM instantly and automatically switching to EE, Vodafone or Three should O2 disappear. O2 Photo by Pavel S on Unsplash Many people love O2 for its outstanding 2G and 3G coverage and in most parts of the UK its coverage indoors rates among the strongest available in the UK. O2 is backed by the huge Telefonica corporation and an excellent network choice for many people. For clarity it's an "O" letter of the alphabet and not a "zero" so O2 not 02. Along with Vodafone, O2 controls a large share of the < 1GHz mobile spectrum in the UK and so benefits from the greater range afforded by longer wavelengths. See a chart of Mobile Radio Frequencies on our blog about mobile signal blockers. This portion of the radio spectrum is better for long distance connection, and the ability for longer wavelengths to "bend" or defract as us radio fanatics say, means your child using O2 could potentially have a signal in the shadow of man-made or natural obstacles where a SIM only on the higher ( and more recently-introduced ) 1800Mhz band may not. Not that O2 doesn't have bandwidth in 1800Mhz but they hold a larger share of the longer wavelength spectrum. ParentShield's... --- - Published: 2026-01-12 - Modified: 2026-01-12 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/i-want-a-vodafone-sim-for-my-childs-phone/ For a Child's SIM, In our experience, Vodafone marginally edges Three and EE for its rural coverage. The Network's urban coverage is strong and there are many ParentShield Customers who prefer the Vodafone coverage with their Child's SIM card. The company has a very strong legacy 2G and 3G network and is the oldest Mobile telephone operator in the UK - having been split from military telecoms provider Racal in the early nineties. The robustness and connectivity of Vodafone makes it an ideal choice for a network to use with a ParentShield SIM Card for a child. Vodafone controls a large share of the < 1GHz mobile spectrum in the UK and so benefits from the greater range afforded by longer wavelengths. See a chart of Mobile Radio Frequencies on our blog about mobile signal blockers. The 33-37cm wavelength of the 800 and 900MHz bands being superb for wide-spread coverage particularly from high altitude masts. Hilltops and the like, and can cover as far as 20 miles. The Longer Wavelength bands also tend to diffract better than shorter wavelengths - meaning there may be better coverage inside and behind buildings in the shadow of the signal. Vodafone's legacy military connections means it provides many of the UK's Core Mobile features for the emergency services and services like 999, 111 and the 119 Covid reporting line so it is trusted by many people for their Child's SIM card. At ParentShield we are big Vodafone Fans. ParentShield's Vodafone Super-Roaming SIM allows parents... --- - Published: 2026-01-12 - Modified: 2026-01-12 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/childs-sim-on-three-uk-network/ Are you looking for a SIM card for a child, but particularly like the 3 Network? There are many reasons to love Three in your child's mobile phone so we make it available as our first-choice network. Three is one of the 'Big Four' Networks in the UK. Many people love Three 3 Network ( Also Known as Hutchison Telecom - or H3G ) for its outstanding 4G coverage and it's data-centric network means it's romping ahead with its 5G roll-out. In most parts of the UK its coverage Outdoors rates among the strongest available and provides good 4G coverage where other networks can't. We regularly find customers in newer populations - particularly in the North that are telling us Three is their best network. At the ParentShield offices we use Three ourselves for emergency data link backup and signalling. For data use, Three has some real advantages. Three doesn't pull some of the 'traffic shaping' tricks that other networks can be guilty of. ParentShield's All Network SIM allows parents to provide all the security and safety benefits of the Parentshield Portal while tapping into the proven and reliable Three sim only signal for their Child's Mobile Phone. You don't need to do anything at checkout as 3 network will always be available. We scan the airwaves around you when your child first activates their 3 network ParentShield SIM for the first time and will make any necessary adjustments automatically behind the scenes. HD voice mobile calls While Connected using... --- - Published: 2026-01-08 - Modified: 2026-01-08 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/going-abroad-with-my-parentshield-mobile-phone-how-does-it-work/ ParentShield is the only mobile network service designed with children in mind. We provide a unique UK-based MVNO that offers complete protection for your children with different features - like call recording, alerts and powerful access controls. Thanks to our ''Going Abroad with your ParentShield SIM'' page you already know that your children can use their mobile phones abroad if they have a ParentShield SIM card. ParentShield has established links with most major telephone companies worldwide and ParentShield SIM cards will work in virtually every country Worldwide. Maybe you wonder if the conditions will be different from a country to another? And indeed they can be. On this page, we have prepared a list of the most popular countries our customers visit, and provide a little more information about each. A Few useful things for Spain When you will be in Spain, your ParentShield SIM card will work on four different mobile networks : Orange Telefónica Móviles Vodafone Xfera The emergency numbers in Spain are : 112 - European emergency number 016 - Emergency Medical number 091 - Police and rescue 080 - Firefighter Few useful things for France When you will be in France, your ParentShield SIM card will work on three different mobile networks : Altice SFR Orange For the French Antilles, you will use Dauphin, Digital, OCM and Outremer. For the French Departments and Territories in the Indian Ocean, you will use Orange La Réunion and SRR. The emergency numbers in France are : 112 - European... --- - Published: 2026-01-08 - Modified: 2026-02-04 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/smartphone-plans-for-kids-what-every-parent-needs-to-know-in-2025/ Choosing the right smartphone plan for your child isn’t just about price or data - it’s about mobile safety, control, and peace of mind. As mobile phones become part of children’s everyday lives, parents need more than just a SIM card. In this post, we’ll explain what makes ParentShield's smartphone plans for kids offer the UK’s most complete solution - starting from just £5. 99/month. ParentShield's Smartphone Plans for Kids and Teenagers What Is a Smartphone Plan for Kids? ParentShield's smartphone plans for kids are mobile SIM plans specifically designed with children in mind. Aside from the adult content filtering that all mobiles networks provide: ParentShield Has a Powerful Suite of Remote Parental Controls Remotely switch mobile data on or off with a single tap Absolutely no overspending - ever. All plans are fixed-price and parent-managed Set time limits for calls, texts, and mobile data usage Control and monitor communication - see who they contact and who contacts them, or whitelist contacts Get instant alerts if concerning words or phrases appear in their messages Tailored push notifications let you know when your child communicates with new or unknown contacts Tower-based location tracking gives you a rough location, even if GPS is turned off What to Look for in a Kid’s Smartphone Plan When evaluating smartphone plans for your child, here are some key ParentShield features for comparison: Essential FeatureWhy It’s ImportantCall and Text MonitoringKnow who they speak to and what’s being said — essential for safeguarding or incident follow-upTime-of-Day Usage LimitsStop late-night phone use with calls, texts and mobile data Cell Tower... --- - Published: 2026-01-08 - Modified: 2026-01-08 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/is-my-childs-iphone-esim-compatible/ Apple adopted eSIM earlier than most manufacturers, making it much simpler for parents choosing an eSIM for their child’s phone. The good news: almost all modern iPhones support eSIM. iPhones that support eSIM All iPhones from iPhone XS onwards support eSIM This includes: iPhone XS Series (XS, XS Max) iPhone XR iPhone 11 series (11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max) iPhone SE Series (2020, 2022) iPhone 12 series (Mini, 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max) iPhone 13 series (Mini, 13, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max) iPhone 14 series (14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max) iPhone 15 series (15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max) iPhone 16 series (16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max, 16E) iPhone 17 series (17, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max) iPhone Air (eSIM only) iPhones that do not support eSIM iPhone X iPhone 8 / 8 Plus iPhone 7 and older These models require a physical SIM only. How to check eSIM on an iPhone On your child’s iPhone: Go to Settings Tap Mobile Data Look for “Add eSIM” or “Add Mobile Data Plan” If it’s there, the iPhone supports eSIM. Why ParentShield eSIMs are the best eSIMs for kids phones ParentShield eSIMs are built specifically for children, not generic adult mobile plans. They are built specifically for children and teenagers, with safety controls applied at network level, not just through apps or phone settings. Key service features include: Call and text monitoring – parents can see who their child is contacting and what is... --- - Published: 2026-01-07 - Modified: 2026-01-08 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/is-my-childs-samsung-esim-compatible/ If you’re setting up a safe SIM plan for your child, you may be wondering whether their Samsung phone supports eSIM. The short answer is: many newer Samsung models do, but not all - and it depends heavily on the model. This guide explains which Samsung phones are eSIM compatible, how to check, and what parents need to know. Samsung phones that support eSIM Most newer Samsung Galaxy devices support eSIM, including flagships, foldables, and some newer A-series models. Samsung eSIM-compatible models S20, S21, S22, S23, S24, S25; Note 20; Fold; Z Fold2 or later; Z Flip or later; A35 5G, A36 5G, A55 5G, A56 Samsung phones that do not support eSIM Older A-series models (e. g. A34, A33, A32, A14) Most budget Samsung phones Some very old flagship models How to check if your child’s Samsung supports eSIM On the phone: Go to Settings Tap Connections Tap SIM Manager If you see: “Add eSIM” or “Download eSIM” No eSIM option = the device does not support eSIM. Why eSIM is useful for children No SIM card to lose or damage Easy setup Ideal to avoid postage Allows a child's SIM to be added digitally --- - Published: 2026-01-06 - Modified: 2026-01-07 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/no-unexpected-charges/ That's what we at ParentShield have always promised our customers from the outset. But what does it really mean? Well, during a recent spot of globetrotting (because it's not just phones that need their batteries recharged), I received a few copies of this delightful missive from my "grown-up" phone network: Hello. Welcome to . It's one of our Zone D Worldwide destinations - which means you'll be charged £7. 86 daily for each 24-hour period of usage, starting when you first use calls, texts or data (including Extras) in your plan while you're here. Don't worry, though - you'll only pay for the days you use your phone. Data used over your allowance and less than 25GB costs the same as it does in the UK. If you use more than 25GB, it's 0. 33p per MB (£3. 58 per GB). Visit (free to access) for more information. For emergency services call 112. Have a great trip! And what was especially galling was that these charges were being imposed not because of any deliberate action I had taken, but because someone else sent me a text message. It wasn't their fault — they weren't to know I was out of the country. The network decided to deliver it to me anyway, and charge me for the privilege. At ParentShield, we make a very simple promise to all our customers: We will never, ever add an unexpected charge of a single penny to your account. If you or your young person... --- - Published: 2025-11-19 - Modified: 2025-11-19 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/case-study-a-real-parents-guide-to-a-safe-first-phone/ Inspired by a Family Action case study featuring ParentShield When should your child get their first phone - and how do you make sure it’s safe when they do? It’s one of the biggest questions modern parents face. Family Action recently shared a real parent case study from Wendy, whose son was approaching secondary school. Her experience is reassuring, practical, and full of insights other families can use. Most importantly, it shows that with the right tools and boundaries, a child’s first phone can be introduced calmly and safely. Here’s what her journey can teach us. Why the “first phone age” isn’t the whole story Many families feel the pressure long before a child is ready. By secondary school, almost every child has a mobile, and the fear of being left out is real. But Wendy’s family took a different approach. They didn’t give a phone at age 10 because the need simply wasn’t there. He wasn’t travelling alone and didn’t need to make independent calls. But at 11 - new school, new travel routes, more independence - a phone became genuinely useful. That’s the lesson: There is no universal “right age”. The right time is when a phone becomes genuinely helpful, not just expected. Starting simple makes everything easier Instead of jumping straight to a smartphone, Wendy chose a very simple handset with: No internet No social media No camera Just calls and texts This created a perfect introduction to independence without opening the door to online risks. To... --- - Published: 2025-11-11 - Modified: 2025-11-11 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/why_choose_a_memorable_number_for_your_child/ A child’s first mobile number becomes part of their identity. They’ll use it at school, with family, for clubs, and eventually through their teenage years. Choosing a memorable number gives them something simple, reliable, and genuinely helpful - especially when they’re still learning independence. This guide explains why a memorable number matters, why parents increasingly choose one, and how it can make a real difference for all children, including those with additional needs. Why a Memorable Number Helps Children instantly benefit from a pattern-based mobile number. It isn’t about luxury. 1.  Helps them remember it confidently Clean sequences, repeats, or small runs make a number dramatically easier for a child to learn and say. When they need to share it - with a teacher, coach or trusted adult - there’s no hesitation. 2.  Reduces mistakes when typing or sharing it A simple pattern means fewer swapped digits, fewer misdials and less confusion, especially for younger children. 3.  Important in emergencies If a child ever needs help, a memorable number is far easier to recall under pressure. 4.  Essential for children with communication or learning needs For some children with ASD, ADHD, dyslexia, speech or memory challenges, a memorable number isn’t just convenient - it’s enabling. It can reduce stress, boost independence and make communication genuinely easier. 5.  A stable number they can keep for life A well-chosen number works just as well for a seven-year-old as it does for a teenager or young adult. It grows with them and avoids... --- - Published: 2025-10-08 - Modified: 2025-10-08 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/pre-register-childrens-mobile-numbers-tps-protection/ ParentShield Does. When a child gets their first mobile phone, safety should come first - not unsolicited sales and marketing calls That’s why ParentShield is the only mobile network that registers every child’s number with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) before it’s even activated. Even though ParentShield’s Ultra-Secure Mode already blocks all unwanted contact - including sales, marketing, spam, and scam calls and texts - at the network level, we believe protection should start even earlier. It’s a simple but powerful step - and one that every mobile network should take. What Is the Telephone Preference Service (TPS)? The Telephone Preference Service (TPS) is the UK’s official “Do Not Call” register, regulated by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). It allows individuals to opt out of receiving unsolicited live sales or marketing calls. When a number is added to the TPS register, companies that make marketing calls are legally required to check the database and avoid contacting that number. It’s one of the key tools used to combat unsolicited live sales and marketing calls from UK companies. What Happens When a Number Is TPS-Registered? Once a number is registered, it’s added to the TPS database within 28 days. Telemarketing companies must check this database regularly - so calls to those numbers should immediately stop. For adults, that means peace and quiet. For children, it means protection from a confusing, intrusive, and even frightening situation. ParentShield’s Arrangement with the TPS ParentShield established a direct arrangement with the Telephone Preference Service to pre-register every new number it issues. That means every ParentShield SIM is entered onto the TPS list before it’s... --- - Published: 2025-09-26 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/ee-safer-sims-vs-parentshield-sims/ Which SIM Is Right for Your Child? If you're searching for a safer SIM for your child, two names you’ll often see are EE Safer SIMs and ParentShield. In this comparison, we’ll walk through the key features, advantages, limitations, and considerations - so you can decide with confidence which is best for your family. This post is optimised to help parents and guardians find the most secure and practical SIM solution for kids - and to answer common questions like, “What can you do with EE's Safer SIMs? ” or “How does ParentShield compare? ” What Are EE Safer SIMs? EE launched “Safer SIMs” as a tailored offering for under-18s, combining content control, protective features, and data safety measures. FeatureDescriptionBuilt-in Parental ControlsWebsites are filtered by content categories, and these controls can’t be switched off when using the EE mobile network. Stay Connected Data Even when data is ‘used up’, a minimal speed (e. g. 0. 5 Mbps) remains active Scam & Caller Labelling ProtectionEnhanced protection and labelling of potential scam calls. Content BlockingPre-set filters to block 18+ content while on EE’s network. Data GiftingOptions to gift data or ensure baseline connectivity. Strengths of EE Safer SIMs Simplicity & Reliability – Because the controls are embedded at the network level, they can’t be disabled by the child when connected to EE. Minimal Disruption – Even if your child exhausts their allowance, they aren’t completely “offline” — they retain baseline connectivity. Trusted Network – EE is a major UK operator with wide coverage and infrastructure you can rely... --- - Published: 2025-09-03 - Modified: 2025-09-03 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/what-are-smarter-sims/ A smarter SIM is a mobile SIM card with built-in safety features, parental controls, and spending protection. Unlike standard SIMs, smarter SIMs are designed for children and families, helping parents manage calls, texts and mobile data, remotely - all at the network level. What Are Smarter SIMs? A smarter SIM is more than just a way to connect a phone to the mobile network. Unlike traditional SIM cards, smarter SIMs add layers of safety, control, and flexibility that standard networks don’t provide. Smarter SIMs are also referred to as Safer SIMs or Safe SIMs For families, schools, and local authorities, a smarter SIM means peace of mind: the child or young person can enjoy the independence of having a phone, while parents and carers remain firmly in control. Why Standard SIMs Aren’t Enough Most mobile networks design their SIM cards for adults. They assume the user is responsible for their own safety, bills, and behaviour. This approach leaves children exposed to risks such as: Unrestricted calls and texts from strangers Payforit services and premium rate charges No way for parents to monitor or manage use That’s why families are increasingly searching for smarter or safer SIM alternatives. The Features That Make a SIM “Smarter” Here are some of the features that set smarter SIMs apart from ordinary ones:  Parental Controls Built In – Manage who your child can call or text.  No Overspending – Fixed allowances mean no surprise bills.  Call & Text Monitoring – Optional recording and review for safeguarding.  Location Awareness – Cell-tower triangulation to track a child’s phone... --- - Published: 2025-08-20 - Modified: 2026-01-08 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/why-safe-sims-are-becoming-a-must-have-for-uk-parents-in-2025/ In 2026, Safer SIMs are no longer a niche product — they’re quickly becoming one of the most sought-after mobile solutions for parents. With more children getting their first phone at a younger age, families are realising that a standard SIM card just doesn’t cut it. A safe SIM offers protection at the network level, meaning safety controls can’t be bypassed by changing phone settings, or even resetting the device. Whether your child has a simple “dumb phone” or the latest smartphone, a safe SIM puts parents firmly in control of who they can contact and when they can use their phone, along with a whole host of other protective features, managed remotely by the parents or guardians. What Is a Safe SIM? A safe SIM is a mobile SIM card with built-in safety features that operate at the network level rather than just within the phone. Common features include: Call and text monitoring Whitelisting or blocking of numbers Time-of-day restrictions Remote mobile data control Alerts for concerning words or phrases Alerts for new correspondents Cell Tower tracking as a backup to GPS Because these controls are enforced by the mobile network itself, they stay in place even if the phone is factory reset or the settings are altered. Why Parents Are Searching for Safe SIMs More Than Ever 1.  Children Are Getting Phones Younger It’s now common for children as young as 8 or 9 to have their first phone - often for safety on the school run or when travelling independently. 2.  Scam Risks Are... --- - Published: 2025-08-06 - Modified: 2025-08-06 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/what-is-the-phone-chat-and-why-the-right-sim-matters/ Giving your child their first phone is a big milestone — that’s why mobile networks are starting to provide more advice for families, like The P. H. O. N. E. Chat, recently launched by EE in partnership with Internet Matters. This advice is a great starting point for all things online, but what else can be done to bolster overall mobile safety, and for those that don't want to provide a smartphone? Parents having the phone chat with their child What Is a Phone Chat? Giving your child their first mobile phone is a step toward independence, so it’s worth sitting down and having a phone chat as early as possible. This isn’t about laying down rules (though that’s part of it) — it’s about starting an ongoing conversation built on trust, awareness, and shared understanding. What to Talk About Before Handing Over a Phone Here are a few conversation starters to guide that first discussion: Explain what phone they have and it's capabilities Explain the difference between a “dumb” phone and a smartphone. Some children start with a simple device for a reason — no browser, no social media, no distractions. If they’re getting a smartphone, make sure they understand it’s not a toy. It’s a camera, a browser, a gateway to apps, YouTube, and everything online. That’s why you’ll be setting parental controls — using tools like Google Family Link, Apple’s Family Sharing, and the ParentShield Portal. Boundaries and expectationsDiscuss when and where the phone can be used for calls, texts and mobile data (e. g. not... --- - Published: 2025-07-30 - Modified: 2026-01-07 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/safer-sim-plans/ With headlines buzzing about the big networks starting to offer safer SIM plans for children and teens, it’s encouraging to see them finally following a path we’ve been paving for years - creating mobile plans designed specifically with young users in mind. But not all safer SIMs are created equal. While these plans from traditional mobile networks are a step in the right direction, they also highlight just how far ahead ParentShield already is when it comes to real, meaningful child mobile safety. Let’s take a closer look at what’s being offered - and what’s missing. It’s Not All About the Mobile Data Safer SIMs from other mobile networks mainly offer the content filtering for mobile data and reduced speeds... . but mobile phones don’t only use mobile data to access the internet - so there's still a need to set up device-level parental controls, like Google Family Link or Apple’s Family Sharing, to cover what happens over Wi-Fi anyway. At ParentShield, we rebuilt the mobile network to add lots of safety systems that aren't available elsewhere. With ParentShield, you know: Who can contact your child What they say What’s being said to them When and how they use the phone When calls or texts with new correspondents occur Their location by last cell tower If they attempt setup with an internet based communication app How you as a parent stay in the loop Not Just Safer — Smarter Our features go far beyond content filtering and data speeds: FeatureParentShieldOther... --- - Published: 2025-07-28 - Modified: 2025-07-29 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/sim-only-back-to-school-offers/ Get Ready for September with the best SIM cards for kids In preparation, many parents are already beginning to tick off the back-to-school checklist: new shoes, stationery, uniforms... and for many, a first mobile phone. If you're looking for a SIM only deal that's safe, age-appropriate and built for children, ParentShield has you covered. Our Back to School SIM only offers are designed for parents who want to stay connected with their children while putting safety first - and right now, we’re making it even easier to get started. Why Choose a SIM Only Deal for Back to School? A SIM only plan is the ideal way to introduce your child to mobile responsibility — especially when paired with a simple phone. With ParentShield, you can use any unlocked device and get: No long contract or credit check Child-safe controls and monitoring Optional data plans for kids or SIM cards with voice/text only No access to unwanted contact Back2School Offer – Buy Now, Pay from September Our most popular offer for the new school year! Order your SIM now using the Back2School voucher code ( choosing Direct Debit ) and:  Get your SIM immediately Billing won’t start until 1st September Perfect timing for new school starters or Year 7s Whether you’re getting your child ready for their first day at high school, or setting up a safe way to contact them after the school bus, this deal makes it simple. Order here and use code: Back2School when choosing Direct Debit https://parentshield. co. uk/ ParentShield SIMs – Built... --- - Published: 2025-07-24 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/why-local-authorities-and-childrens-services-trust-parentshield/ Across the UK, more and more Local Authorities, Children’s Homes, and Children’s Trusts are turning to ParentShield to meet the unique safeguarding needs of the children and young people in their care. Whether it’s providing safe communication for a child placed in a new foster setting, enabling carefully controlled contact with family, or supporting a young person’s growing independence — ParentShield offers something no other mobile network does: safeguarding-first mobile connectivity. SIM Plans for Children in Care ParentShield is not just a mobile network with a few extra features — it’s a mobile network built from the ground up with safeguarding at its core. For children in care, who may be at greater risk of exploitation, coercion, or contact from unsafe individuals, mainstream mobile networks simply don’t offer the protections needed. ParentShield is now being used by: Local Authority Safeguarding Teams Residential Children’s Homes Independent Fostering Agencies Children’s Trusts across the UK Because it has been specifically designed for protecting children and young people. How ParentShield Supports Care Settings ParentShield is specifically designed to meet the safeguarding and administrative needs of care settings such as Local Authorities, Residential Children's Homes, and Fostering Services. Unlike standard mobile networks, ParentShield provides a robust, secure, and auditable environment to manage a young person's mobile phone usage — with controls and tools tailored for looked-after children (LAC). Designed for Corporate Parenting Children in care often have communication needs that differ from those in traditional home environments. ParentShield’s infrastructure and Pro Stage SIMs are built to handle these added... --- - Published: 2025-07-18 - Modified: 2025-07-18 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/balancing-independence-and-safety-letting-your-child-go-out-alone/ The summer holidays bring sunshine, freedom - and for many families, new milestones. One of the biggest steps is letting your child go out alone for the first time. Whether it's a short walk to the park, a trip to the shop with a friend, or just playing a bit further from home than usual, summer gives children more opportunity to explore. But for parents, it can feel like a leap into the unknown: What if they need help? How will I know where they are? Are they ready? Why Summer is the Right Time to Start During term time, everything runs to a clock - homework, dinners, bedtime. But summer offers more breathing room to gradually test boundaries and build trust. It’s the perfect time for a few firsts: First walk to the corner shop First bike ride without an adult First time staying over at a friend’s house These small freedoms are big learning opportunities - for your child, and for you as a parent. Teaching Skills Before They Go Before you let your child head out alone, talk through situations they might face. Discuss: What to do if they feel unsafe How to cross roads safely Who they can ask for help if needed When and how to check in with you It’s also a good time to roleplay real-life scenarios: “What would you do if you got lost? ” “Who would you call if you needed help? ” The Role of a Mobile Phone For many... --- - Published: 2025-07-14 - Modified: 2025-07-25 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/why-you-should-get-your-child-their-own-mobile-number-now/ The summer holidays are nearly here! Six weeks of adventures, trips to the park, days out with friends, sleepovers, and maybe even that big family holiday you’ve been planning all year. It’s a time kids love – but for parents, it’s often when the stress levels rise. One simple thing can make your summer easier, safer, and more organised: giving your child their own mobile number before the school term ends. Here’s why the time to sort it out is now, before the last school bell rings. 1. Make Sure Friends Have the Right Number Before School Ends This is the single biggest reason to sort it before term finishes. Once the school gates close, your child won’t see many of their classmates for six weeks. If they don’t have their own number by then, they can’t share it. That makes arranging meet-ups much harder. By getting their number now, you can help them swap numbers with friends while they’re still seeing them every day. 2. Peace of Mind When They're Out and About Let’s be honest: most kids get more freedom over summer. Meeting friends at the park. Going swimming. Wandering round the shops. Visiting grandparents. Even if you’re happy for them to go – you’ll want to be able to reach them (and for them to reach you). A personal number on their own SIM card means: They can call you if plans change. You can find out where they are. No relying on a friend’s phone. 3. Ideal for Older “Dumb”... --- - Published: 2025-07-11 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/what-happens-if-my-child-loses-their-phone/ Tips and Advice for Parents It’s something most parents dread: realising your child has lost their mobile phone. Whether it fell out of a pocket, was left at school, or disappeared on a day out, it can feel stressful for you and your child alike. But don’t panic - there are straightforward steps you can take to reduce risk, keep things safe, and turn this into a learning moment. Here’s our ParentShield guide on what to do if your child loses their phone, with tips at every stage. Don’t Panic – It Happens Children are learning responsibility, and losing things is normal. Phones are easy to drop or misplace - especially for younger kids getting used to carrying one. ParentShield Tip: Stay calm and reassure your child. Treat it as an opportunity to talk about being responsible with valuables without making them afraid to tell you next time. Call or Text the Lost Phone If the phone is on and has signal, try calling or texting it immediately. Many lost phones are returned by people who answer. ParentShield Tip: Check your ParentShield Portal to see who your child last called or texted. It can help retrace where they might have been when they lost it. Track the Phone  If your child’s phone is a smartphone, use built-in tools like Apple’s Find My iPhone or Google’s Find My Device if they were set up in advance. These services can show the phone’s last known GPS location. ParentShield Tip: On Safe Stage SIM cards with Mobile Data (Safe Stage 2 and upwards) you can see... --- - Published: 2025-07-05 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/would-you-know-if-your-child-received-a-text-from-a-stranger/ Getting a child their first phone is always a big milestone. It usually comes after months of thinking, comparing phones, and deciding they’re finally ready for a bit more independence. But once that new phone number is active, there’s something most parents never stop to consider - Would you actually know if your child received a text message from a stranger? How Other Mobile Networks Keep You out of the Loop Most mobile networks treat every SIM the same — whether it’s for a six-year-old or a sixty-year-old. That means: Anyone can call or text the number. Parents get no notifications about who’s making contact. There’s no warning when a new person reaches out. Even “parental control” apps can’t fix this properly, because they run on the phone itself — and can be turned off, deleted, or bypassed. What Makes ParentShield Different ParentShield was designed from day one to answer exactly that question - “Would I know if someone new contacted my child? ” Because ParentShield is a mobile network built specifically for children, it can do things no other network can. 1. New Correspondent Alerts Whenever your child texts or calls someone new — or someone new contacts them — you’ll get an instant alert. No need to battle for their phone; you just know. 2. Word Alerts If a text includes anything worrying, ParentShield lets you know instantly. You choose which words or phrases trigger an alert, so it’s completely tailored to your child. 3. Ultra-Secure Mode You can... --- - Published: 2025-06-10 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/the-parentshield-webinar/ ParentShield is the UK’s only mobile network designed exclusively for children and young people. It’s the smart, safe choice for families navigating the world of mobile phones - especially when it’s time for that all-important first phone. We’ve created this webinar to walk you through exactly how ParentShield works, and how it’s helping schools and families across the country promote safe, responsible mobile phone use. Watch the Webinar Watch the Portal Walkthrough In this session, you’ll discover Why ParentShield exists and who it’s for How the ParentShield Portal puts you in control Powerful features like call/text recording, Word Alerts, and SchoolBlock Time controls for bedtime and school hours How Ultra-Secure Mode creates a closed and trusted contact group How to stop communication apps like WhatsApp by enabling machine-to-person message blocking How schools can use and share ParentShield with their Year 7 parents For schools:This webinar is ideal to share with your new intake of Year 7 parents. You can embed it in a newsletter or send them directly to this page. ParentShield helps schools support their mobile phone policies, reduce distractions, and promote safeguarding - all while giving parents peace of mind. Need help? Our friendly UK-based team are always available to answer questions via phone, email or live chat. Phone: 03301221180 Email: hello@parentshield. co. uk Live chat: use the chat bubble to the bottom right of the website Ready to order? Choose your plan and we’ll send your SIM out the same day - SIM-Only Contracts - cancel at any... --- - Published: 2025-05-23 - Modified: 2025-07-25 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/new-tracking-tool-gives-parents-lifeline-for-children-with-dumb-phones/ The feature locates a child’s phone via cell tower - even without GPS or smartphone functionality. In a telecoms first, ParentShield – the award-winning mobile network designed specifically for children – has today announced the nationwide rollout of live cell tower tracking. Tracking a 4G dumbphone with cell tower location Previously available only to professional care organisations, the feature now gives parents access to the location of the cell tower their child’s phone is connected to - even if GPS is disabled or the device doesn’t support location services. With the new ‘Find Cell Tower’ button available, parents can view an instant location fix based on the phone’s network attachment. While not as precise as GPS, cell tower tracking can offer vital information in situations where GPS isn’t available or applicable - particularly for children using non-smart, 4G feature phones. This information is passed to ParentShield as part of the phone’s data session records and is shown with an estimated accuracy circle for context. When pressed, the feature returns a map-based view of the last connected cell tower, along with technical location metadata such as Cell ID, confidence radius, and timestamp. The feature is supported by a simple data toggle in the ParentShield portal – allowing parents to remotely switch mobile data on or off at any time. This means the phone can remain offline by default, and only be given a data connection when the Find Cell Tower function is needed, maintaining control while minimising exposure. “This is about advancing the tools... --- - Published: 2025-05-22 - Modified: 2025-12-09 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/celltower-location-of-a-child-phone/ From today you might spot a new button in the ParentShield Portal at the bottom of the page: This is currently only available on the new single-network Safe Stage SIM cards and Pro Stage SIM cards. When pressed it'll display - if possible - the location of the last known cell tower location that the SIM connected to. It's important to remember that this isn't the phone location, just a decoded location of the celltower that provided the last data session. In some instances this might be quite a way from the phone so we try and provide a 'confidence' circle as guidance. It's still very useful information however, and can provide valuable pointers. This information comes to us from Networks in a delayed form so it's also potentially up to an hour delayed. ParentShield's decision to offer cell tower tracking isn't about replacing GPS; it's about complementing it. While many smartphones offer built-in GPS tracking (often through apps like Google Family Link or Apple's Find My), these can be circumvented if the child disables location services on their device or if mobile data connections are poor. Cell tower tracking can also be useful in situations where mobile signals can reach the phone but the GPS can't spot the weaker signals from satellites - such as inside buildings. Cell Tower information also can't be spoofed. It's a trivial task to download a 'fake location' app on a smartphone and make the phone report a false location. It's also a lower-power... --- - Published: 2025-04-28 - Modified: 2025-04-28 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/parentshield-for-elderly-users/ ParentShield’s safety features, designed for children, are now being used to help protect elderly mobile phone users from scams and fraud ParentShield, a mobile network originally developed to safeguard children, is now being adopted by families seeking to protect elderly relatives from phone scams and fraud. Designed to support children’s early steps into mobile phone independence, ParentShield’s features are now proving valuable for vulnerable seniors. The company reports a growing number of adult customers using its services to help elderly family members maintain mobile connectivity while reducing exposure to unwanted calls and messages. “Removing a mobile phone isn’t a solution for older people who rely on their devices to stay in touch with family and friends” said Graham Tyers, CEO of ParentShield. “Families are looking for ways to maintain that essential contact while adding an extra layer of security. ” ParentShield includes several features that are being used to support elderly mobile users: Closed User Group: In Ultra-Secure Mode, phones can be set to allow communication only with trusted contacts. New Correspondent Alerts: Families receive notifications when the phone is contacted by an unknown number. Time Controls: Communication windows can be set to manage when calls and texts are permitted. ParentShield SIM cards work in any unlocked mobile phone, providing an option for families seeking to manage mobile phone use while maintaining independence. The increased interest from families supporting elderly users highlights the broader applicability of mobile safety measures initially designed for children. For further information about using ParentShield for vulnerable adults, visit: https://parentshield.... --- - Published: 2025-04-16 - Modified: 2025-04-16 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/coming-soon-google-wallet-for-children-via-family-link/ At ParentShield, we’re always on the lookout for tools and updates that help families introduce mobile independence in a safe and secure way. That’s why we wanted to share news of an upcoming feature from Google that could be interesting to many of our parents. Google Wallet will soon be available for children on supported Android devices – giving them the ability to make contactless payments and keep supported passes like event tickets, library cards and gift cards through the Google Family Link app. What Is Google Wallet for Kids? Google Wallet is a digital wallet app that lets users securely store and use payment cards, event tickets, loyalty cards, library cards, and more – all from their phone. Until now, it’s been a feature for adults only. But with this upcoming update, children will soon be able to access Wallet on their Android devices – safely and with your permission. What Will Children Be Able to Do? Once available, children will be able to: Pay contactless in shops with a card you’ve added and approved Store digital passes like gift cards, boarding passes, or loyalty cards Access Wallet features based on your settings in Family Link What Do Parents Control? With this new feature, you stay in full control via the Google Family Link app. Here’s what you’ll be able to do: Approve Payment Cards Children can’t add payment cards on their own – you’ll need to authorise each one You’ll receive an email notification for every transaction You can remove cards remotely at any time Manage Digital Passes Your child... --- - Published: 2025-03-18 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/cheapest-sim-plan-for-kids/ As parents, when providing a mobile phone we also want to ensure their safety. But finding an affordable, child-friendly SIM plan that offers the right level of protection can be challenging. That’s why ParentShield has introduced the Safe Stage 1 plan - ParentShield's cheapest SIM plan for kids is available for just £5. 99 per month - and with all of ParentShield's famous protections included. Why Choose a SIM Plan Designed for Kids? A standard mobile SIM isn’t always the best choice for a child’s first phone. Traditional SIM plans don't include ParentShield's remote parental controls, monitoring, and alerts. ParentShield is different. Our child-safe SIM cards give parents complete control over their child’s mobile use, helping to create a secure and manageable first phone experience. Safe Stage 1 – The Most Affordable ParentShield Plan The new Safe Stage 1 plan makes ParentShield more accessible than ever. At just £5. 99 per month, it provides essential features designed to keep young children safe while staying connected to family. What’s Included?  100 minutes & 100 texts per month + 2 'Home Numbers' – Perfect for a first phone, ensuring children can always reach their parents.  No Data Included – Prevents internet access for younger children.  Call & Text Monitoring & Alerts – Enable monitoring of messages and calls for peace of mind.  No Unexpected Bills – Fixed monthly cost with no chance of overspending.  Ultra-Secure Mode – Only trusted contacts can call or text the phone, blocking all unknown numbers. The Best SIM for Kids Under 10 ParentShield’s Safe Stage 1 plan... --- - Published: 2025-03-10 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/unlimited-data-plans-for-teenagers-with-parental-controls/ When looking for the best unlimited data plan for teenagers, parents often worry about safety and excessive mobile use. With most standard mobile networks, parents can turn off WiFi at night, only to find their teen switching to mobile data and staying online. That’s where ParentShield’s Unlimited Data Plan is different. It allows teenagers to have an unlimited data plan - but with powerful parental controls that put you in charge. The Only Unlimited Data SIM Designed for Parents Unlike standard unlimited SIM-only deals, which focus purely on data limits, ParentShield’s SIM offers complete control over mobile data, calls, and texts. With ParentShield’s Unlimited SIM, parents can: Turn data on or off remotely – Instantly disable mobile data via the ParentShield portal. Set time controls – Automatically cut off internet access at bedtime, during school hours, or at any time you choose. Control calls and texts – Restrict unknown numbers and monitor messages if required. Why Parents Choose ParentShield’s Unlimited Data Plan With standard mobile networks, teenagers can easily bypass home WiFi restrictions by using mobile data. With ParentShield, you are in control: Turn off mobile data completely, even if WiFi is disabled. Ensure a distraction-free school day, with no sneaky data use during class. Protect against late-night browsing with automatic cut-off times. Never worry about limits or unexpected charges. Unlimited Data with Parental Control Unlike typical unlimited data plans for teenagers, ParentShield’s SIM is built specifically for parents. It provides all the benefits of an unlimited data SIM, but with the controls that other networks don’t offer. Works with any unlocked phone No unexpected charges or overspending UK-based support and secure network... --- - Published: 2025-02-27 - Modified: 2026-01-08 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/esim-or-physical-sim/ As mobile technology continues to evolve, many customers find themselves choosing between a traditional physical SIM and the newer eSIM for kids phones. While both serve the same purpose - connecting your device to a mobile network - the way they work is quite different. At ParentShield, we want to make sure you have all the information needed to pick the best option at checkout. eSIM Compatible Phones As of July 2025, the following devices support eSIM functionality in the UK: BrandeSIM Compatible ModelsApple iPhoneiPhone AIR, 17, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max, 16e, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 11, SE, SE 2 (2020), XR, XSApple iPadiPad Pro 11″ (A2068, from 2020); iPad Pro 12. 9″ (A2069, from 2020); iPad Air (A2123, from 2019); iPad (A2198, from 2019); iPad Mini (A2124, from 2019); iPad 10th generation (from 2022); iPad Pro 3rd generation or later; iPad mini 5th generation or later; iPad Air 3rd generation or later; iPad 7th generation; iPad Pro (M4) 13-inch and 11-inch and later (eSIM only); iPad Air (M2) 13-inch and 11-inch models and later (eSIM only)FairphoneFairphone 4, Fairphone 5, Fairphone 6Google Pixel3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10HonorMagic 4 Pro, 5 Pro, 6 Pro, V2, V3, Honor 90, 200 Pro, X8HuaweiP40, P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro, Pura 70 ProMotorolaRazr (2020) (eSIM only); Razr 2019 onwards; Edge 2022 onwards (including Edge 40, 50); Moto G Power 5G (2024); Moto G35, G52, G53, G54, G84, G34NokiaXR21, X30, G60 5GOnePlusOpen, 11, 12, 13, 13ROppoFind X3 or later; Find N2 or later;... --- - Published: 2025-02-26 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/why-parentshield-chose-ee-the-uks-best-mobile-network/ At ParentShield, our mission has always been clear: to provide the safest and most reliable mobile network for children and vulnerable users. Since our launch, we have built a reputation for innovation, ensuring that parents have complete control over their child's first phone experience. Over the years, we've listened to our customers, evolving our service to meet their changing needs. ParentShield’s Journey From the beginning, ParentShield has been known for its all-network SIM, designed to keep children connected even in the most challenging locations. This remains a core part of our offering. However, as many of our early users' children have grown up, their needs have changed. We now have thousands of families who first joined us when their children were young and are now looking for larger data plans as their children transition into their teenage years. At the same time, we’ve seen increasing demand for our services from children's residential homes, Trusts and Local Authorities, to families caring for vulnerable adults, including those with special needs and individuals living with dementia. To meet these growing needs, we have been working on new solutions to extend ParentShield’s protection across all use cases. Why EE? To ensure our users continue receiving the best possible mobile experience, we’ve chosen to connect to EE as the single network for our new high-data plans. Trusted industry reports show EE has won Overall Best Network 23 times in a row. , making it the clear choice for ParentShield. What This Means for ParentShield Users Our all-network SIM remains available for those who need... --- - Published: 2024-11-19 - Modified: 2024-11-19 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/best-dumb-phones-for-a-child/ As children venture into the world of mobile phones, many parents are opting for "dumb phones" as a first step. These basic devices are designed to prioritise communication without the distractions and risks associated with internet access, apps, or games. Dumb phones, also known as feature phones, are simple, durable, and cost-effective, making them an excellent choice for kids who are just starting their mobile journey. This guide explores the benefits of dumb phones, key features to consider, and a curated list of the best options for children in 2024. Pairing these devices with a ParentShield SIM enhances safety, giving parents complete control over how the phone is used. Why Choose a Dumb Phone for Your Child? Dumb phones are a practical choice for parents seeking a balance between connectivity and safety. Here’s why they’re a popular option: Limited Distractions: Without apps, games, or social media, dumb phones encourage kids to focus on communication and other responsibilities without being glued to a screen. Better Safety: These phones lack internet access, reducing exposure to online risks such as cyberbullying, inappropriate content, or unauthorised in-app purchases. Cost-Effective: Dumb phones are much cheaper than smartphones, both in upfront cost and ongoing expenses. Durability: Many dumb phones are designed to withstand drops, bumps, and general wear and tear, making them ideal for kids. Teaches Responsibility: A basic phone allows children to learn the responsibilities of owning a device - such as keeping it charged and not losing it - without the high stakes of an expensive smartphone. What... --- - Published: 2024-11-12 - Modified: 2025-11-06 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/best-phones-for-kids-guide-christmas-2024-edition/ Choosing the right phone for your child can be tricky, especially as there are so many options to consider. From gifting one of your old phones to buying a budget Android or iPhone, each option has unique benefits. This guide covers a variety of choices - from dumb phones for simple communication to budget smartphones with parental controls - so you can find the best fit for your child. Here’s a rundown of the best child-friendly phone options for Christmas 2025. 1.  Gifting a Parent’s Old Phone Using an old phone is often the most economical option. It's especially practical if you have a device that’s still in good working order. An old phone can work perfectly for kids, especially when combined with the free phone parental controls and a ParentShield SIM card. Giving your child an old phone that you no longer use can be a practical, cost-effective way to introduce them to mobile technology. However, there are key pros and cons to consider, along with a few maintenance tips to ensure the device is reliable and safe for your child. Benefits of Using an Old Phone Cost Savings: Reusing an old phone is significantly cheaper than buying a new one. You’re able to introduce your child to their first phone without the extra expense, making it an ideal choice for parents who want a low-cost solution. Built-In Parental Controls: If you’re reusing an iPhone or Android device, it likely has built-in parental control options such as Apple’s Family Sharing or... --- - Published: 2024-09-12 - Modified: 2024-09-12 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/parentshield-helps-schools-provide-secure-phones/ Innovative solution balances school mobile phone policy with parent concerns for child safety. Many schools have recently implemented a no-mobile-phone policy, where students caught with mobile devices during school hours have their phones confiscated for up to a week. While this policy has significantly reduced distractions in the classroom, it has also led to an unintended consequence: students are left without a reliable way to contact their parents on the way to or from school, raising concerns about their safety. Innovative "School Burner Phones" SolutionIn response to this issue, ParentShield has developed a practical and secure solution. The schools will provide students with basic “burner phones” for the duration of their personal phone confiscation. Equipped with a ParentShield SIM card, these phones will allow only essential, safe communication — a feature highly valued by both the school and parents alike. The ParentShield SIM Card: Ultra-Secure Mode for Complete Peace of MindThe ParentShield SIM cards supplied to the schools are configured with Ultra-Secure Mode, which restricts communication to a closed user group. This means students can only call or text (or be called or texted by) their parents or pre-approved contacts added by the school. With the ability to add an unlimited number of safe contacts, the system provides flexibility while maintaining safety. Notably, the child can also dial a dedicated school contact by simply dialling "501. " This number can be assigned to a teacher or another trusted representative, allowing students to reach a designated safe contact without revealing the... --- - Published: 2024-08-21 - Modified: 2024-08-21 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/no-data-sims-on-4g-feature-phones/ What You Need to Know When it comes to choosing a SIM card for a 4G non-smartphone, many parents might consider opting for a standard no data SIM as a means of limiting internet access. However, this approach can lead to significant issues. The best solution is to use a SIM card that allows for remote control over data, like those offered by ParentShield, which gives you the flexibility to turn mobile data on and off as needed. Here’s why. The Problem with Standard No Data SIMs Most 4G non-smartphones, while not fully "smart," still rely on occasional data connections to function correctly. Even though these devices may not be used for browsing the web or streaming content, they often require data to perform necessary software updates and security patches. These updates ensure that the phone operates efficiently and remains secure from vulnerabilities. However, if you choose a standard no data SIM, the phone will be unable to download critical updates, as they do not have Wifi capabilities. Without regular updates, the phone's software can become outdated, leading to bugs, decreased performance, and potential security risks. This is particularly concerning if the phone is used by a child. The Need for Remote Data Control The ideal solution is not to eliminate data entirely but to have control over when and how data is used. ParentShield offers a perfect balance with SIMs that allow parents to remotely toggle data on and off through the ParentShield Portal. This feature is incredibly practical... --- - Published: 2024-07-05 - Modified: 2024-07-05 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/retro-phones-for-kids/ Many parents are turning to 'retro' or 'dumb' phones, officially known as feature phones, for their children. These simpler devices, when paired with a ParentShield SIM card, offer a host of benefits that extend far beyond basic communication. Here’s why this combination is becoming increasingly popular among parents. Enhanced Mobile Phone Safety Feature phones inherently limit internet access and app usage, which significantly reduces exposure to online risks such as inappropriate content and cyberbullying. When coupled with ParentShield’s advanced parental controls, the safety measures are further enhanced. Parents can monitor calls and texts, block unwanted contacts, and set specific times for when the phone can be used. This ensures that children use their phones safely and responsibly. Increased Parental Involvement A retro phone paired with a ParentShield SIM encourages active parental involvement in a child's mobile phone journey. This involvement is crucial as it helps parents guide their children in developing responsible phone usage habits. By staying engaged, parents can address any issues or concerns that arise and ensure their children are using their phones appropriately. Responsible Mobile Phone Use ParentShield acts as a powerful educational tool. Parents can use the service to teach their children about safe communication practices and the importance of responsible phone usage. Over time, as children demonstrate responsible behaviour, they can graduate to a smartphone while still benefiting from ParentShield's protection. This gradual progression helps children adapt at a comfortable pace, with parental oversight. Cost-Effective Solution Feature phones are generally more affordable than smartphones and... --- - Published: 2024-06-18 - Modified: 2025-12-12 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/how-to-disable-google-chat-rcs/ What is Google Chat RCS Google's Rich Communication Services (RCS) is a messaging service, available on Android devices, that requires the internet. It allows you to see when someone is typing, notifies you if a message has been read and allows you to send high-quality photos and files. This is great, however, there is a downside. It's an encrypted and private messaging service so cannot be monitored. This is potentially an issue for parents, concerned for their children's wellbeing, who want to see who they're communicating with and what's being said through their ParentShield SIM card. How to disable Google Chat RCS Luckily there is a way to disable it, so that all texts to and from the ParentShield SIM are visible. Below, we've listed instructions for disabling Google Chat RCS on all the most popular Android devices. Disable Google Chat RCS on Samsung phones Open the 'Messages' app Tap on 'Settings' Tap on 'Chat settings' Switch 'Chat features' off Disable Google Chat RCS on other Android phones (Google, Motorola etc. ) Open the 'Messages' app Tap on the profile picture at the top, to the right of the search bar Tap on 'Messages settings' Tap on 'RCS chats' Switch 'Turn on RCS chats' off Disabling Google Chat RCS Remotely Using Google's Form If your child has changed device (i. e. from an Android to an iPhone, or a basic feature phone), or there is a problem disabling it on the device, you may need to disable Google Chat RCS... --- - Published: 2024-05-21 - Modified: 2024-05-21 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/parentshield-responds-to-young-peoples-views-on-under-16s-phones/ VotesforSchools recently asked children and young people across the UK for their thoughts on the idea of specially-designed phones for under 16's aimed at improving online safety. With over 57,000 young participants, the insights gained were invaluable. VotesforSchools invited ParentShield to join their impact partners and share our perspective on this important issue. ParentShield's Take on Under-16s Phones: "While the notion of introducing under-16s phones for safety purposes may initially sound appealing, it's crucial to acknowledge the existing solutions that provide safety without the associated drawbacks," Paul Stevenson, CMO at ParentShield. ParentShield elaborated on several key points: Cost and Practicality: Specialised phones often come with high upfront costs or lengthy contracts and can carry substantial insurance costs, which could pose challenges for families. In contrast, modern smartphones already include parental controls that enable parents to regulate their child's access to applications and filter inappropriate websites. Existing Solutions: ParentShield emphasises that all modern smartphones come equipped with robust parental control options. These tools allow parents to manage their child's online access effectively. Enhanced Control: Additionally, SIM-based solutions, such as ParentShield further enhance these controls by facilitating remote monitoring and automatic safeguarding alerts to parents. Practical Use: Most children's first phones are typically hand-me-downs from their parents. Therefore, the idea of under-16s phones, while reassuring, may not be as practical as leveraging the existing safety features on standard devices. Young People's Insights: Primary 5-11 Age Group: 65% of 7-11 year olds said that they wouldn't rather use an under-16's phone. Secondary 11-16... --- - Published: 2024-04-12 - Modified: 2024-04-12 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/parentshield-maintains-protection/ Amidst the ongoing concern surrounding WhatsApp's decision to lower its minimum age limit, ParentShield, the child-safe mobile network, reaffirms its dedication to prioritising the safety and wellbeing of young mobile phone users. ParentShield remains committed to taking proactive measures to safeguard children from installing age-restricted chat applications without their parents knowledge or permission. Parents worry as WhatsApp reduces minimum age to just 13 The move by WhatsApp to lower the minimum age limit from 16 to 13, came into force on Thursday, and the change has ignited widespread concern among parents and campaigners, who fear that young users may lack the necessary skills to navigate potential hazards. ParentShield acknowledges these concerns and underscores the importance of providing parents with the tools and information needed to make informed decisions about their children's activities. Recent investigations have uncovered troubling instances of children as young as nine being added to malicious groups on WhatsApp, where they encounter harmful content such as self-harm, sexual violence, and racism. ParentShield recognises the gravity of these findings and emphasises the need for increased emphasis on protecting children. Campaign group Smartphone Free Childhood said "Today WhatsApp completed their rollout of their new, lower age restrictions, which enables them to monetise younger users. This flies in the face of the growing national demand for big tech to do more to protect our children. Officially allowing anyone over the age of 12 to use their platform (the minimum age was 16 before today) sends a message that it's safe for... --- - Published: 2024-04-12 - Modified: 2024-06-18 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/setting-up-your-childs-android-phone/ Before giving your child their first phone, there are a few things that need to be done to ensure you both have the best experience possible. Make sure you factory reset it (if it is a phone that was previously in use), and give the operating system an update! Even if it's a brand new phone, it will still need an update. Factory reset and set up as new Depending on the model, you can find the factory reset option somewhere in the settings, usually in the System, Advanced or General management settings. Listed below are the steps for the most common models of phone. If you're struggling, look up how to factory reset the model of phone you have online. Factory reset a Samsung phone Tap on General management in the Settings app Tap on Reset Tap on Factory data reset Factory reset a Motorola phone Tap on System in the Settings app Tap on Advanced Tap on Reset or Reset options Tap on Erase all data or Factory data reset Factory reset a Google Pixel phone Tap on System in the Settings app Tap on Reset options Tap on Erase all data (factory reset) Update the operating system software You will most definitely want to update the operating system software on the phone, to avoid any potential problems occurring from outdated software. The option to update will be somewhere in the Settings app. You can find instructions for the most common models of phone below. If you're struggling,... --- - Published: 2024-03-19 - Modified: 2024-03-19 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/parentshield-at-edtech/ ParentShield, the leading Mobile Network designed specifically for children's first mobile phones, is excited to announce its participation in EdTech innovate. The event will take place at the Schools & Academies show at the ExCeL arena on the 1st May 2024, bringing together industry leaders and innovators in the education technology sector. At the show, ParentShield will be highlighting its revolutionary SchoolBlock feature, designed to empower parents with enhanced control over their children's mobile phone usage, including during school hours. With a simple switch accessible through the ParentShield online portal, SchoolBlock enables parents to block all calls, texts, and mobile data during school hours, fostering an environment conducive to focused learning. "We are thrilled to showcase our SchoolBlock feature at the Schools & Academies show," said Graham Tyers, CEO at ParentShield. "the management of children's mobile phone usage, especially during school hours, is of paramount importance to the education sector. Our SchoolBlock feature will really help to support headteachers in their task to manage the use of mobile phones throughout the school day, including break times. SchoolBlock provides a seamless solution towards a safe and distraction-free learning environment in line with Governments new policy, and is activated with one simple switch in the parents online portal. " In addition to highlighting the SchoolBlock feature, ParentShield will also demonstrate its unique capabilities as a training and education platform for responsible communication. By creating a safe environment for parents to utilise real-life examples, ParentShield prepares children for transitioning to a regular adult... --- - Published: 2024-02-20 - Modified: 2024-02-20 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/special-mobile-phones-for-children-a-solution-or-a-problem/ The question of whether there should be specialised phones designed specifically for children has become a topic of discussion among parents. "Kid-friendly phones," would aim to address parental concerns while providing children with a means of communication. However, beyond the benefits and challenges of safety, there are practical considerations to take into account. Financial Considerations: Contracts vs. Flexibility One of the primary concerns for parents considering a special phone for their child would be the financial commitment involved. Unlike handing down an old out-of-contract phone to a child, acquiring a specialised device would mean entering into a long-term contract. These contracts typically include the cost of the phone, spread out over monthly payments, along with the SIM plan. The alternative in this situation would be a high entry cost for purchasing the phone outright in advance and a smaller ongoing monthly cost for the SIM only. For many families, committing to a long-term contract for a child's first phone would raise questions about long term affordability and flexibility, particularly with the high risk of losing the phone, or not even using it a couple of months down the line. Insurance Costs: Protecting the Investment In addition to the monthly contract payments, another financial consideration for parents would be the cost of insurance for the specialised phone. Children, particularly younger ones, are more prone to accidents and mishaps, including loss or damage to their devices. As such, insuring a special phone for a child may come with a higher price tag... --- - Published: 2024-01-23 - Modified: 2026-01-14 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/esims-for-kids-phones/ In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, parents are constantly seeking innovative solutions to ensure their children's safety and manage their mobile experiences responsibly. Enter ParentShield's eSIMs for kids' phones, a revolutionary approach to mobile connectivity that combines cutting-edge technology with the trusted, award-winning protection of ParentShield. What Are eSIMs? An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a game-changer in the world of mobile connectivity. Unlike traditional physical SIM cards, eSIMs are embedded directly into the device, eliminating the need for a physical card swap. This small chip, loaded with information, allows the device to connect to the mobile network seamlessly. How Do eSIMs Work? ParentShield's eSIMs work by delivering the necessary information through a QR Code sent via email. This code contains all the details required for the child's phone to configure itself for the ParentShield Service. The activation process is swift, immediate, and bypasses the delays associated with traditional postal services. Once activated, parents gain access to a secure online portal, mirroring the functionality of traditional ParentShield SIM cards, enabling them to control, monitor, and set alerts for their child's mobile usage. eSIMs vs. Traditional SIM Cards ParentShield is dedicated to child safety, and this extends seamlessly to our eSIMs. Just like traditional SIM cards, eSIMs offer robust protection for your child's first mobile phone. Key Benefits of ParentShield eSIMs for Kids Phones Immediate Activation: No more waiting for physical SIM cards to arrive in the post. ParentShield's eSIMs are activated instantly, ensuring that your child can stay connected without... --- - Published: 2024-01-16 - Modified: 2024-01-17 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/parentshield-tps-registered-numbers/ ParentShield, the leading provider of mobile communication solutions for children, is pleased to announce an innovative arrangement with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS). This signifies a significant step towards enhancing the protection of children's mobile telephone numbers across the United Kingdom. The new arrangement aims to simplify the process of safeguarding children from live sales and marketing calls by including ParentShield's entire user base in the official 'Do Not Call' register of the UK's Telephone Preference Service. Typically, individuals are required to manually register their phone numbers with the TPS to opt out of such calls. However, they must also allow for a 28-day period from the date of registration for their number to become effective on the register. This waiting period creates a window for cold callers and spammers, and new number ranges are often prime targets. In a groundbreaking move, ParentShield and the TPS have redefined this process for ParentShield users. With the cooperation of the Telephone Preference Service, all telephone numbers allocated to ParentShield will be pre-registered with the TPS, ensuring inclusion in the 'opt-out' category for unsolicited live sales and marketing calls. This revolutionary approach eliminates the need for the parents of individual users, who are all children, to manually add their numbers to the TPS register. Commenting on this arrangement, Paul Stevenson, CMO of ParentShield, stated, "The safety and wellbeing of children are at the core of ParentShield's mission. We are delighted with the cooperation of the TPS to help us protect young and vulnerable... --- - Published: 2023-12-01 - Modified: 2023-12-01 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/santa-approved-safety-for-your-childs-first-phone/ Ho, ho, ho! It's the season of goodwill and giving, and what better gift to give them than the magic of their first mobile phone for Christmas! But hold on to your sleigh bells, dear parents, because with ParentShield, you're not just gifting a phone, you're wrapping up a whole sleigh-load of safety and control features to guide them. Santa’s Special Safety: Listen, Read, and Limit ParentShield isn't your average mobile service; it's a protective cloak for your child's mobile journey. Imagine this: as a parent, you have the power to listen to your child's calls, read your child's texts, and set restrictions for your child's phone through an online portal. It's like having Santa's magic, but for your child's phone activity! Home Numbers: Santa's Hotline! Imagine your child's delight when they can always reach Mum, Dad, for free, no matter what! ParentShield's "Home Numbers" ensure that these essential contacts are always within reach, even if the phone's credit has vanished faster than cookies on Christmas Eve. Specific Word Alerts: Santa's Sleigh Bell Ring Want to know when certain words or phrases pop up in your child's texts? With ParentShield, you set the alerts, and whenever those words are used, a notification flies down your chimney straight to your phone. It's like having a Santa's sleigh bell ring whenever something important comes up! Time-Restricted Mode: Santa's Magic Time-Turner Oh, the power to control when the phone can be used! ParentShield lets you set boundaries—no calls or texts during school hours... --- - Published: 2023-11-17 - Modified: 2023-11-17 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/fortnite-moves-to-voice-recording-to-protect-children-in-matches/ Epic Games, the creators behind the widely popular game Fortnite, has taken a decisive step toward bolstering online safety with the implementation of voice recording capabilities within the game. The new voice reporting feature, aimed at protecting young players, enables the reporting of inappropriate behaviour via voice chat, contributing to a more secure space for children navigating the gaming realm. The introduction, represents a significant stride in combating cyberbullying, harassment, and other forms of misconduct prevalent in online gaming platforms. Players now have the ability to provide audio evidence when reporting instances of violations against the established Community Rules within Fortnite. The mechanism behind this feature involves the capture of the most recent five minutes of voice conversations, allowing users to submit this recorded audio as evidence during the reporting process. This method empowers players to take action against inappropriate behavior, promoting a healthier and safer gaming environment. You can read the full details of Epic Games' announcement here --- - Published: 2023-11-14 - Modified: 2023-11-14 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/parentshield-innovation-award/ South Derbyshire Pioneering MVNO ParentShield takes prestigious Innovation award judged by JCB In a resounding victory for technological innovation, ParentShield proudly announces its receipt of the esteemed 'Best Use of Innovation or Technology' award at the 2023 East Staffordshire and South Derbyshire Business Awards. This recognition underscores ParentShield's commitment to child protection in the Telecoms industry. ”We are thrilled and honoured to receive the award, as testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, as well as the trust of the families who rely on us for their children's safety. ” Graham Tyers The East Staffordshire and South Derbyshire Business Awards are renowned for spotlighting businesses that make a significant impact, so winning in the 'Best Use of Innovation or Technology' category is a testament to ParentShield's dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation to ensure the safety of children. It also acknowledges ParentShield's cutting-edge features, including New Correspondents Alerts, and Social Media setup blocking and alerts, which empower parents with the tools they need to safely provide a first mobile phone to their child. The esteemed panel of judges recognised ParentShield for its outstanding achievements in utilising technology to address critical issues facing families today. Judge Sam Griffin from JCB expressed his awe, stating, “We were blown away. ” This testimony reflects the impactful and impressive nature of ParentShield's innovative solutions. The award ceremony celebrated not only the technical prowess but also the dedication, ingenuity, and collaborative spirit that defines ParentShield. "We are thrilled and honoured to... --- - Published: 2023-11-01 - Modified: 2023-11-01 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/a-kids-guide-to-mobile-numbers/ Mobile numbers, those fascinating strings of digits that connect us with friends and family, have become an essential part of our lives. You might have wondered why they all start with 07, what happens if you don't include the 0, or how they work. In this adventure of exploration, we'll uncover the facts around mobile numbers! How Mobile Numbers Work Behind those magical numbers are technical marvels. Each mobile number corresponds to a SIM card in a mobile phone. When someone calls your number, the mobile network uses a complex system to find your SIM card and connect the call. It's like a treasure hunt for the right connection, and it happens in a fraction of a second! Why All 07 Numbers? Have you ever noticed that all mobile numbers in the UK start with 07? It's like a secret code, right? Well, it's not exactly a secret, but it does have a purpose. This "07" is the prefix for mobile numbers in the UK, and it tells us that the number belongs to a mobile device. The Importance of the "0" The "0" at the beginning of the mobile number might seem like an extra digit, but it's crucial! When calling a mobile number within the UK, you always dial the full 11-digit number. That "0" at the start is what distinguishes a mobile number from a landline number, which usually starts with "01" or "02. " Dialling Abroad: Adding a Splash of Adventure What if you want to... --- - Published: 2023-10-24 - Modified: 2023-10-24 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/customer-first-parentshields-strategy-for-customer-satisfaction/ We believe that putting the customer at the forefront is not just a strategy; it's a fundamental responsibility. We will discuss how ParentShield has embraced this responsibility and integrated it into every aspect of our operations. From product development and service delivery to the establishment of meaningful customer relationships, our approach is centered on providing the best possible experience. The Complexity of Customer Satisfaction Customer satisfaction is a multilayered process, akin to a delicate dance. It involves various elements, from product quality and service excellence to timely issue resolution and proactive support. Here's how we tackle these aspects at ParentShield: 1. Providing an Exceptional Product: ParentShield's foundation is our product. We ensure it is cutting-edge, reliable, and user-friendly. Our features like new correspondent alerts, ultra-secure mode, time controls, and monitoring options are designed to cater to the unique needs of our customers. 2. Outstanding Customer Service: A significant part is our dedicated customer service team. They are available to assist customers through setup, troubleshooting, or any other enquiries they may have. Fast, efficient, and human-centered support is at the core of our service. 3. Issue Resolution: One of the key elements is addressing issues promptly. We actively seek out and resolve problems before they escalate and make ourselves available via live chat, telephone and email. Should anyone be unsure of anything, we have humans on hand to assist. Spotting and Nurturing Customer Issues One of our primary strategies is the proactive identification and resolution of customer issues. We actively engage... --- - Published: 2023-10-19 - Modified: 2025-11-26 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/buying-a-mobile-phone-for-christmas/ We've had our first Christmas order for Christmas 2025 already - so the season has officially started - and here is everything you need to know if you are buying a phone for a child for Christmas! On the face of it, buying a mobile phone for a child for Christmas should be a simple affair, right? Well, It sort of is, but having supplied ParentShield SIM cards for the past few years we know that it's something that can take a bit of organisation to get just right, so we put this guide together in case it's of use to anyone planning to "do it this year". The buying a first mobile phone thing is something that's going to happen. It's just a matter of when. You can’t order too soon! Last Post for Christmas is Saturday 20 December by regular mail, or the 23rd with Special Delivery Naturally you don’t want to pay for a Phone Contract for months before Christmas. But every year we ship SIM cards just before Christmas only to find that the mobile phone that it’s destined for is locked. On Christmas Day. When it’s difficult or impossible to get it sorted. We want to avoid this, and it’s worthwhile spending some time with ParentShield before handing it over, to make sure you have got used to the Portal Controls before the phone starts use. ParentShield is a powerful tool and it’s very easy to accidentally block calls or texts that are actually needed,... --- - Published: 2023-09-20 - Modified: 2025-05-06 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/raising-the-iq-of-dumb-phones-for-child-safety-with-parentshield/ Children are gaining access to mobile phones at increasingly younger ages, and while these devices offer convenience and communication, they also come with their set of concerns for parents. Enter ParentShield, a comprehensive mobile network service that empowers parents to manage and monitor their child's mobile phone usage, even on a basic 'dumb phone' or 'retro phone'. What's remarkable about ParentShield is that all its controls are network-side, meaning they don't rely on a data connection to work. Here we explore how ParentShield can be effectively used on a dumb or feature phone, providing parents with peace of mind and control. ParentShield: A Brief Overview Before delving into the specifics of using ParentShield on a basic phone, let's recap what ParentShield is all about. ParentShield is a unique mobile network service designed to address the needs and concerns of parents regarding their children's mobile phone usage. It offers a wide range of features and controls that enable parents to safeguard their child's mobile experience while ensuring responsible usage. Dumb Phones and ParentShield One of the standout features of ParentShield is its compatibility with basic 2G dumb phones. While many parents may opt for these simpler devices for their children, they often worry about the lack of advanced controls and monitoring options. ParentShield bridges that gap by bringing robust control features to these devices without the need for a data connection. Here's how ParentShield works seamlessly with a dumb phone: Calls and Text Monitoring ParentShield's network-side controls mean that you can... --- - Published: 2023-08-16 - Modified: 2023-08-16 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/phone-follies-parentshields-adventures-in-sim-replacements/ Buckle up, because today we're delving into the world of (mainly) child-induced phone mishaps, where ParentShield's customer requests for replacement SIM cards become the stuff of legend - here we reveal some of the very best. Our Dog Ate Her SIM Card Let's start off with a tale that had us all howling – Imagine this: your child removes their SIM card to put in their new phone, but it takes a nosedive onto the kitchen counter, only to take an unexpected detour through the belly of the family's furry friend after deciding that a SIM card is the ultimate treat. Yes, you heard that right – the dog ate her SIM card! It's a gastronomic escapade that only the most audacious pets could pull off. Phones vs. Washing Machines Yesterday, not one, but two of our customers ordered SIM card replacements due to washing machine incidents. Evidently, these phones decided they required a quick spa treatment, leading to an accidental aquatic ballet. However, these SIM cards for kids were not quite prepared to join the dance, resulting in yet another captivating SIM card replacement tale. The Mystery of the Buried Phone Next up, a tale of a buried treasure that got a tad too real. One child thought it was high time to embrace their inner pirate and embarked on an ambitious journey – straight into the soil. Unfortunately, the treasure map was lost along the way. At One With Nature Welcome to the great outdoors! "It got lost... --- - Published: 2023-08-11 - Modified: 2023-08-16 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/exploring-the-fascination-of-nice-numbers-for-childrens-phones/ In the world of numbers for SIM cards for kids, there's a unique charm that certain combinations hold – the kind that makes you smile when you see them. These numbers have a way of catching our attention and sticking in our memory. They're called "nice" numbers, and they possess intriguing patterns that captivate both young minds and those with an affinity for numerical beauty. What Makes a Number Nice? Repeated Digits: Numbers like 11, 22, and 333 are simple yet appealing due to their symmetry. Children often find these numbers delightful and easy to remember. Series of Prime Numbers: Prime numbers have an aura of mystery about them, making sequences like 2, 3, 5, or 11, 13, 17 intriguing for young number enthusiasts. Palindrome Numbers: Palindromes such as 121, 454, and 87778 possess a playful symmetry that sparks curiosity and amusement. Lucky Numbers: Numbers with cultural or personal significance, such as 7 or 8 in many cultures, often feel "nice" due to their positive associations. Sequential Numbers: Sequences like 123, 234, or 345 can feel like a fun countdown, adding an element of excitement. Embedded Equations: Groups of digits such as "4728" form mathematically-correct equations (4 * 7 = 28) if you insert mathematical symbols between them. What Makes a Number Bad? On the other side of the spectrum, certain numbers might evoke discomfort or unease. This can be particularly relevant for mobile phones for children with autism or dyslexia who might struggle with certain number patterns. Chaotic Patterns:... --- - Published: 2023-08-04 - Modified: 2023-08-16 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/fun-mobile-phones-quiz-for-kids/ The summer holidays are now in full swing, and whilst kids all over are enjoying their adventures, we wanted to add a dash of fun and learning to their break. So, we have put together this little Mobile Phones Quiz. This quiz is an engaging way to explore the exciting world of mobile technology. Join us as we take a journey through the fascinating features, popular games, and interesting facts about mobile phones that will leave kids both entertained and enlightened during their summer holidays! 1. Which mobile phone feature allows you to access the internet and make phone calls while you are travelling in another country? a) Roaming b) Travel mode c) International access 2. What country is credited with creating emojis? a) Japan b) United States c) South Korea 3. Which popular mobile game involves capturing virtual creatures in the real world using your phone's camera? a) Candy Crush b) Pokémon GO c) Subway Surfers 4. What do we call the small card that you insert into your phone to store extra pictures, videos, and files? a) SIM card b) Memory card c) Battery 5. Which mobile phone feature allows you to connect your phone to other devices like headphones or speakers wirelessly? a) Wi-Fi b) Bluetooth c) Infrared 6. Which mobile phone feature allows you to see who is calling you before you answer the call? a) Caller ID b) Missed call notification c) Caller info preview 7. Which company created the first commercially available mobile phone... --- - Published: 2023-08-03 - Modified: 2023-08-03 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/teaching-good-cybersecurity-practices-to-children/ Introduction Cybersecurity basics for children Common online threats and how to stay safe A Safe Introduction to Mobile Phones for Children Teaching cybersecurity at home and in the classroom Conclusion Let's face it, technology is everywhere. Children nowadays are growing up surrounded by screens and the internet. While this has its benefits, it also exposes them to a range of cybersecurity threats. Technology is here to stay, so it's important that we focus on teaching good cybersecurity practices to children. The reasons for doing this are clear. Cyber threats are becoming more common and sophisticated, and children are especially vulnerable. Without the right guidance, they are at risk of experiencing cyberbullying, identity theft, scams, viruses, and more. Such an experience can be devastating and could negatively impact a child's confidence, safety, and even future opportunities. Teaching children about cybersecurity might feel like a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. Here are a few things to keep in mind when approaching this topic. Firstly, make sure the language you use is appropriate for their age. Secondly, emphasize the positive aspects of staying safe online rather than just scaring them with the negatives. Finally, allow them to ask questions and be patient when explaining concepts. By teaching cybersecurity to children, you are empowering them with the skills and knowledge they need to stay safe in an increasingly digital world. Not only that, but it can also be a fun and engaging way to get them to think about technology and... --- - Published: 2023-07-28 - Modified: 2023-07-28 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/the-ongoing-mobile-phone-debate-in-uk-schools/ The debate on whether to ban mobile phones in schools continues, with union leaders cautioning against a complete ban. TES Magazine reports that UK schools minister, Nick Gibb, expressed concern about the negative impact of mobile phones on learning and suggested that schools should have the discretion to keep them out of classrooms. He also emphasised the importance of teaching students to limit their screen time at home. However, Geoff Barton, the general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, pointed out that most schools already have policies in place either banning phones during the school day or restricting their use to specific circumstances. A complete ban might lead to practical issues, such as parents being unable to contact their children while they are travelling between school and home. Sarah Hannafin, head of policy at the NAHT school leaders' union, warned that a total ban could result in students becoming secretive about their phone use, making it harder for staff to address potential problems. Instead, she suggested that schools should focus on teaching students responsible screen use and how to handle potentially harmful content. Arguments against a complete ban on mobile phones in schools Many schools already have policies in place to manage mobile phone use during the school day, so a complete ban might not be necessary. A total ban could create practical issues, such as parents being unable to contact their children while they are travelling between school and home. Students might become secretive about their... --- - Published: 2023-07-24 - Modified: 2025-07-17 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/locating-a-childs-iphone-from-an-android-phone/ If you have a child with an iPhone and you are an Android user, fret not! Apple's iCloud Find My iPhone feature allows you to locate your child's iPhone easily from your Android device, bringing you peace of mind. Locating a Child's iPhone Using Apple's 'Find My' service Step 1: Set up iCloud Find My iPhone Before you can start using the iCloud Find My iPhone feature, ensure that it is enabled on your child's iPhone. On the iPhone, go to Settings > > Find My > Find My iPhone, and toggle the switch to enable it. Also, enable the "Send Last Location" feature, which helps in locating the device even if the battery is critically low. Step 2: Access iCloud from your Android phone to locate your child's iPhone. Open a web browser on your Android smartphone and visit https://www. icloud. com/find. Log in with the same Apple ID and password used on your child's iPhone. Step 3: Locate the iPhone Once logged in, iCloud Find My iPhone will display a map with the location of all connected Apple devices. Choose your child's iPhone from the list, and the map will zoom in to show its current location. Please note that the iPhone needs to be powered on and connected to the internet (via Wi-Fi or cellular data) for this feature to work. Locating a Child’s iPhone from an iPhone For iPhone to iPhone location, although you can use the method described here, Family Share is the recommended solution. --- - Published: 2023-07-24 - Modified: 2023-07-24 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/first-mobile-phones-a-history-from-the-very-first-mobile-phone/ The evolution of mobile phones has been nothing short of remarkable. From the humble beginnings of clunky, oversized devices to the sleek and sophisticated smartphones we carry today, the journey of mobile phones is an extraordinary tale of technological advancement. Let's take a trip down memory lane and explore the fascinating history of mobile phones, starting from their inception to the cutting-edge devices of the modern era. 1. The Birth of Mobile Telephony The first-ever mobile phone call was made on 3rd April 1973 by Martin Cooper, a Motorola engineer. He used a Motorola DynaTAC, a hefty device weighing nearly two pounds, to call a rival company's researcher. This monumental moment marked the birth of mobile telephony and laid the foundation for the mobile revolution. 2. The Brick-Like Era Throughout the 1980s and early 1990s, mobile phones were often referred to as "bricks" due to their large and bulky design. These early devices were primarily used by high-ranking officials, wealthy individuals, and professionals due to their expensive price tags. The introduction of the 1G (first-generation) cellular network during this period allowed mobile phones to communicate over radio frequencies, expanding their reach. 3. Compact & Functional As technology progressed, mobile phones began to shed their weight and size, becoming more compact and functional. The 1990s saw the rise of flip phones and candy bar-style phones that were more portable and user-friendly. Nokia, with its iconic Nokia 3310, became a household name during this era. These basic feature phones make great starter... --- - Published: 2023-07-21 - Modified: 2023-07-24 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/locating-a-childs-android-phone-from-an-iphone/ As parents, ensuring our children's safety is a top priority, and it's crucial to know how to locate their devices in case of emergencies or simply to offer peace of mind. From time to time, parents ask us how they can track their child's Android phone, given he or she is an iPhone user. If your child owns an Android phone, simply download Google Chrome to use as a web browser and you have a powerful tool at your disposal to keep track of their device's whereabouts. Here's a little guide on how to locate your child's Android phone from an iPhone: Locating a Child's Phone From a Chrome Browser Enable Location Services on the Child's Android Phone: Before anything else, make sure your child's Android device has location services enabled. Go to Settings > Security & Location > Location and ensure that it's turned on. Set Up Find My Device: On the child's Android phone, open the Google Settings app and tap on "Security. " Look for the option "Find My Device" or "Find My Phone" and activate it. This feature allows you to track the device's location using your Chrome browser. Open Google Chrome: Launch your Chrome web browser on your phone or any other device. Log In with the Same Google Account: Ensure you are logged in to Chrome with the same Google account that is linked to your child's Android phone. Type "Find My Device" in the Search Bar: In the Chrome browser's search bar, type... --- - Published: 2023-07-18 - Modified: 2026-01-14 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/a-parents-guide-to-mobile-terminology/ As parents, it is crucial to familiarise ourselves with the terminologies associated with our children's phones. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify mobile terminologies such as APN, VPN, PUK, PAC and beyond. APN (Access Point Name) Access Point Name, or APN, is a crucial setting that allows mobile devices to connect to the internet via a cellular network. It acts as a gateway, determining the network settings required for internet access. Parents should verify APN settings to ensure a stable and secure internet connection for their child's phone. VPN (Virtual Private Network) Virtual Private Network, or VPN, technology establishes a secure and encrypted connection between a device and the internet. VPNs enhance online privacy and security by routing internet traffic through a private server. In the context of a child’s mobile phone it goes without saying, they are not recommended, so be sure to read our guide to using a VPN on a mobile phone. PUK (Personal Unblocking Key) and PIN (Personal Identification Number) PUK, or Personal Unblocking Key, is a unique code provided by the mobile network operator to unlock a SIM card that has been blocked due to multiple incorrect PIN entries. PIN, or Personal Identification Number, secures the SIM card. Teaching children the significance of entering the correct PIN, or preferably leaving the SIM PIN setting alone, helps prevent SIM card blocking, while keeping the PUK code in a secure place is crucial for unblocking the SIM card if needed. PAC (Porting Authorisation Code) Porting Authorisation Code,... --- - Published: 2023-07-14 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/locate-a-phone-even-after-its-data-has-run-out/ ParentShield has always allowed your child to call and text Home numbers, even if they have run out of minutes or messages. Now we have added a new feature: Even if your child has used up their full data allowance, you can temporarily, and instantly add enough data to locate a missing phone - on our Roam Stage all-network data plans, and without any cost. This facility is not available on the Safe Stage's – you will need to upgrade in this case. Note that the phone must already have been set up for data -- please see our guide here for how to do this. Then, if the phone has run out of data, you'll see a button labelled "Add data for location tracking" in the data tab of the Portal: Clicking this button will add some data to the phone, and turn the "DATA" switch on if it was off; thus allowing you to use a location tracking service such as Google Find My Device (for Android phones) or Apple Find My iPhone (for Apple iPhones) to locate it. We recommend making sure the phone is properly set up for data, and familiarising yourself with the relevant location service, before you ever need to use it in a real emergency situation. --- - Published: 2023-07-10 - Modified: 2024-07-17 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/parents-rush-to-secure-mobile-numbers-before-summer-holidays/ As the summer holiday approaches, parents are rushing to secure mobile numbers for their children's first phones to pass to their friends. This trend reflects the importance of staying connected during this critical period. Here, we explore the reasons why parents are eager to obtain SIM cards before break up. Preparing for Secondary School As children prepare to transition to secondary school, it becomes crucial for them to keep in touch. By exchanging numbers, they can initiate conversations, plan meet-ups, and engage In discussions about their upcoming experiences. This communication enables a smoother transition into the new school environment. Staying Connected over the Long Holiday The summer break often entails a significant separation from friends as families embark on holidays or engage in various activities. By securing mobile numbers for their children, parents ensure that friendships can be sustained over the extended holiday period. Through calls and texts, children can share their experiences, maintain a sense of camaraderie, and strengthen the bonds ready for the next chapter. Support in Their Pocket Transitioning to secondary school can be an anxious time for children as they navigate unfamiliar territory and adjust to new academic and social expectations. Exchanging mobile numbers gives children a supportive outlet to reach out to friends, discussing their concerns, sharing information, and offering reassurance. These conversations can help ease nerves. Arranging to Meet Friends Meeting up during the summer break is beneficial for children as it allows them to sustain friendships, nurture social skills, share experiences and support... --- - Published: 2023-07-07 - Modified: 2023-07-07 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/assigning-names-to-numbers/ You can now assign names to numbers in the calls and text listings in the ParentShield Portal! This has long been one of our most-requested features, but the stumbling block has always been data protection -- we would not be allowed to store any of that data on any of our servers without written consent from every person concerned. Until recently, the best we could offer was a browser extension which provided this functionality using only storage on the client end. And while this worked very well, it was only available on desktop or laptop computers using the Chrome™ web browser. Now we are pleased to present a more universal solution; which not only works on all modern browsers on desktop or laptop, but on mobile devices too. All names and associated numbers are stored on your device only, and never sent to ParentShield. You will notice an extra "Names" tab is available, where you can add, edit and delete numbers and the names associated with them: On a mobile device, the extra tab will look like this: The "Add New" button creates a new row in the table where you can enter a number and name. The "Save" button will disappear momentarily when it is clicked, to show something is happening, then reappear when the data has been saved. The "waste bin" icon alongside each row deletes a name/number entry. Note that if you change a name already associated with an existing number, it will be necessary to reload... --- - Published: 2023-07-06 - Modified: 2023-07-06 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/unlocked-phones-for-kids/ When purchasing a new phone for your child's ParentShield SIM card, the most important consideration is to ensure that it is unlocked. We explore the key differences between locked and unlocked phones, and why ParentShield is the best choice for a child's unlocked phone. What are Locked Phones? Locked phones are devices that have been tied to a specific carrier or network. When you purchase a locked phone, it comes pre-configured to work only with that particular carrier's SIM card. The primary motivation behind locking phones was to ensure customer loyalty and long-term revenue for that carrier. This can be restrictive and hinder the freedom to choose the best service provider for your needs. For this reason Ofcom banned companies from selling locked phones from December 2021, but unfortunately, phones supplied before then remain locked until you contact them and ask them to unlock it; which they will do free of charge if it's your old contract phone. What are Unlocked Phones? Unlocked phones, on the other hand, are totally open. These devices are not tied to any specific carrier or network, allowing you to use SIM cards from various carriers, both domestically and internationally. Unlocked phones provide the flexibility to switch carriers at will, and select the services that suit your needs best - such as ParentShield's multi network SIM cards. Choosing the Right SIM Card for Your Child's Unlocked Phone When it comes to selecting the perfect SIM card for your child's unlocked phone, ParentShield is packed with... --- - Published: 2023-07-04 - Modified: 2023-07-04 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/taking-care-of-your-first-mobile-phone-a-guide-for-kids/ Getting a first mobile phone is an exciting time, but it's also important for them to know how to take care of it so it stays in good shape and keeps them safe. This guide will help them learn all about looking after their mobile phone. Power Off and Restart After Putting in the SIM Card When you get your new phone, you'll need to put in a SIM card to make calls and send messages. But before doing that, make sure to power off your phone. Then gently insert the SIM card into the special slot (you might need help from an adult). Finally, turn your phone back on. This makes sure your phone recognises the SIM card and works properly. Keep Your Phone's Software Updated Sometimes your phone will ask to update its software. It's important to do these updates because they make your phone work better and keep it safe from problems. Be aware that you can set your phone to update automatically, but that doesn't mean that it actually will, so regular searches for updates manually are always recommended. Know Where Your Phone Is at All Times Your phone is a valuable possession, so it's essential to keep track of it. Make it a habit to know where your phone is at all times. Keep it in a safe place when you're not using it, like in your bag, pocket, or a designated spot at home. By being aware of its whereabouts, you can help prevent... --- - Published: 2023-06-28 - Modified: 2023-06-28 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/why-schools-recommend-parentshield/ Ensuring the safety of children on their mobile phones has become a paramount concern for schools and parents alike. ParentShield, a leading mobile phone service designed with child protection in mind, has garnered strong recommendations from schools. We explore why schools recommend ParentShield and how it contributes to putting child protection at the heart of mobile phone usage. TeachingTimes Article: Recognising Child Protection Needs ParentShield's commitment to child protection has gained significant attention, particularly through TeachingTimes' article titled "Putting Child Protection At The Heart Of Mobile Phone Usage. " As a trusted resource for teachers and school leaders, TeachingTimes recognises the importance of ParentShield's contribution in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of children. SchoolBlock: Promoting Focused Learning ParentShield's SchoolBlock feature is highly regarded by schools as it blocks all calls, texts, and mobile data during school hours, except for "home numbers" and emergency services. This restriction helps create an environment conducive to focused learning, reducing distractions and inappropriate phone usage during school hours. Blocking Setup SMS for Social Media App Downloads ParentShield's innovative approach extends beyond call and text blocking. It also prevents setup SMS messages associated with popular apps such as WhatsApp, TikTok, and Facebook from reaching the child's phone. Instead, these messages are directed to the parents' portal and also alerts them by sending a push notification - this gives parents an added layer of protection and instant awareness. Word Alerts: Prompt Notifications for Safety Concerns With ParentShield's word alerts feature, parents receive instant notifications if specific words... --- - Published: 2023-06-23 - Modified: 2023-06-23 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/teaching-a-child-texting-etiquette/ Nurturing Responsible Communication It's not uncommon for children to have access to a mobile device at an early age. However, handing over a phone to a child without any prior training on texting etiquette can lead to unexpected consequences. From excessive use of emojis to spam-like messaging habits, it is essential to teach children responsible communication skills. Additionally, being vigilant about their interactions can help identify potential safeguarding risks. Here, we explore the importance of teaching children texting etiquette and how to ensure their safety. Establishing the Basics of Texting Etiquette When introducing a child to text messaging, it is crucial to lay a foundation of proper etiquette. Here are some key points to consider: a) Clear Communication: Teach your child the importance of clear and concise messaging. Encourage them to express their thoughts in a way that is easily understood and avoids confusion. b) Respectful Language: Emphasise the significance of respectful language and discourage the use of offensive or derogatory terms. Teach them to treat others over text messages with the same respect they would in face-to-face interactions. c) Grammar and Spelling: Help your child understand the value of good grammar and spelling in their text messages. Correcting their mistakes gently will not only enhance their language skills but also improve their overall communication abilities. Managing Emojis and Abbreviations Where it's a Smartphone, emojis have become an integral part of communication, but excessive use can hinder effective messaging. Here's how you can guide your child in using emojis and... --- - Published: 2023-06-21 - Modified: 2024-02-20 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/sim-cards-with-usage-restrictions/ Whether it's moving to a new school, Christmas, a birthday, or moving house to a new area, eventually the time or situation arises that leads to a child's first mobile phone. It's crucial for parents to ensure their safety and regulate their mobile usage. ParentShield's SIM cards with usage restrictions offer a comprehensive set of features designed to empower parents with control over their children's mobile activities. In this blog post, we will delve into ParentShield's key usage restriction features, highlighting how they contribute to creating a safer and more controlled mobile environment for kids. Ultra-Secure Mode ParentShield's ultra-secure mode transforms the child's phone into a closed user group. In this mode, only designated "home numbers" and any additional numbers added to the safe list can initiate or receive calls and texts. By restricting communication to trusted contacts, this feature enhances the child's safety and shields them from potential threats or unwanted interactions. SchoolBlock With SchoolBlock, ParentShield allows parents to disable calls, texts, and mobile data during school hours (9am to 3pm) on weekdays. This feature ensures that children remain focused on their studies and prevents distractions from mobile devices. Importantly, calls to designated "home numbers" and emergency services are exceptions to any of ParentShield's restrictions, ensuring that children can reach out for help if needed. Where a school has an 'out of sight' phone policy, this prevents a child receiving any pings or rings at the wrong time - resulting in a potentially distressing confiscation or detention! Time Controls... --- - Published: 2023-06-15 - Modified: 2023-08-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/lesson-plan-teaching-responsible-mobile-phone-use/ Homeschooling over lockdown may seem like a distant memory now, but there were some fun times among the chaos of adjusting to that new way of life. And we gained some skills along the way too . Even though ParentShield provides all the tools and advice you need to keep your child safe with their first mobile phone, and is a training and education tool in itself, eventually they will outgrow our service and be ready for a 'normal' 'Adult' mobile network and all that comes with it. We thought it would be a good idea to put a simple lesson plan together for parents to use as they go, so they are prepared for the next steps as they arrive. Objective: To guide parents in teaching their children responsible mobile phone use in a fun and engaging way, ensuring they develop healthy digital habits. Duration: This lesson plan is designed to be implemented over a period of two weeks, with activities spread out to reinforce concepts gradually. Week 1: Building a Foundation Activity 1: Set Clear Expectations Materials: Paper, pens, a whiteboard, or a digital device for brainstorming Sit down with your child and discuss the importance of responsible mobile phone use. Brainstorm a list of rules and expectations together, such as time limits, appropriate content and language, frequency and device-free zones. Write down the agreed-upon rules and display them prominently in a shared space. Activity 2: Create a Digital Diary Materials: A notebook or a digital document for... --- - Published: 2023-06-13 - Modified: 2023-09-21 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/understanding-mobile-data/ Mobile data refers to the digital information that travels over the internet to and from mobile devices, such as smartphones or tablets. It's like a magical motorway that allows people to connect with the vast universe of the online world, play games, stream videos, chat with friends, and explore endless possibilities. How Does Mobile Data Work? Mobile data is transmitted wirelessly through cellular networks, which consist of cell towers that send and receive signals to and from your devices. These signals carry the data and enable you to access various online services and applications What are the types of Data? 1 Mobile Data: This is the data that you use while connected to a mobile network. It allows you to access the internet wherever you go, as long as there's network coverage or available mobile data allowance 2 Wi-Fi Data: Wi-Fi is a wireless technology that connects your devices to the internet through a local network. When connected to Wi-Fi, you can use the internet without consuming your mobile data. Managing Mobile Data: It's essential to be mindful of how you use your mobile data. Here are some tips to help you manage it wisely: 1 Check your data usage: Keep an eye on how much data you're using by checking your device's settings. 2 Connect to Wi-Fi: Whenever possible, connect to a trusted Wi-Fi network to save your mobile data. Remember, using Wi-Fi doesn't count towards your mobile data usage. 3 Restrict background data: Some apps consume data even... --- - Published: 2023-05-05 - Modified: 2023-06-19 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/a-bit-of-congestion/ -- Update 9th May 2023 -- We've been monitoring this particular situation over the weekend and things are back to normal as far as we can see. Obviously we're keeping an eye on it while our supplier increases capacity for us. ------ Many of our customers have been with ParentShield Two or Three years now. In feels like we've travelled some distance together. In that time we've made a lot of changes to everything and regular readers of the Changes page and various blog posts will know some of the hurdles we've faced, and scaled - Do you even scale hurdles? - over the years. While we're really pleased with progress, it's not been totally plain sailing and in a business like building a mobile network it's normal to face the odd hitch here and there. We've had power-cuts in our data centre, and been struck by lightning twice, literally, resulting in a growing pile of fried hardware currently waiting to be recycled. A big thank-you to everyone we've spoken to who has been so understanding. Our current hurdle is some insufficient capacity at one of our suppliers involved in some of our voice routing ( That's making and receiving calls ). It turns our that at their busy times - which is generally over lunchtimes - some of our inbound calls are taking longer to set up than they would normally. Something in the jargon known as PDD - Post-Dial Delay. So you call into a ParentShield number, and... --- - Published: 2023-04-28 - Modified: 2024-07-29 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/its-complicated/ At ParentShield we deal with phones, sometimes at the messy end of life. We regularly get calls for help getting a SIM card and phone contract where things are possibly slightly unusual - often where families are complicated or spread apart for whatever reason. Normal phone companies are generally either not geared up for this, or really just don't have it on their radar. This means that it's often unclear about who has access to what and problems can be difficult to resolve because the person who might need to speak to the phone company might not be the account holder. If the worst happens and we are contacted by the Police for account-holder details, it's important to us that we can point them in exactly the right direction, as quickly and efficiently as possible. This page has a few different scenarios as examples and might be useful if you're wanting to know what names and addresses to put on the order. I'm ordering but the child doesn't live with me A classic example of this might be a grandparent who wants to buy a mobile phone contract for their grandchild - with the permission of the parents of course. Often the grandparent won't be in charge of the SIM controls. We would ask the grandparent to put their details on the order form - the billing address, and then to either put the name and address and contact details of the parent in the order notes, or drop us... --- - Published: 2023-04-24 - Modified: 2023-04-24 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/dont-leave-safe-mobile-phone-use-for-granted-warns-parentshield/ With Back-to-School around the corner, ParentShield, urges parents not to take it for granted that children will know how to safely use a mobile phone As the end of school year period approaches, ParentShield, the UK's only child-safe mobile network, is urging parents not to simply presume that their children will know how to communicate safely and politely on their new mobile phones without training and education. Mobile phones become increasingly ubiquitous, it is important for parents to teach their children how to use them safely says the specialist UK mobile network. With children as young as five years old now regularly using mobile devices, parents must take a proactive approach to ensure their kids understand the potential risks and learn how to navigate the digital world and remote conversations responsibly. ”Safe phone usage by children is all about knowing the sorts of conversations being had, and with whom, so appropriate timely conversations can take place in the home. ” Graham Tyers According to recent data, over 70% of children aged 5-12 now own a mobile phone, and this number is only expected to rise. While mobile devices can provide a wealth of safety, educational and entertainment opportunities for children, they also pose certain risks if used improperly. Cyberbullying, exposure to inappropriate content, and identity theft are just a few examples of the dangers that children may face when using mobile phones. Without training and guidance they are also unlikely to handle what is potentially a powerful computer in their pocket, properly... --- - Published: 2023-04-23 - Modified: 2026-01-22 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/why-parentshield-removed-voicemail/ The voicemail system that's attached to every other mobile network isn't suitable for a phone used by small children. The system used by all four of the big mobile networks was designed over 40 years ago for use on mobile phones that were primarily there for business users. Nobody really considered at the time that in future 6 or 7 year olds would be carrying mobile phones to school. A better solution was required. While voicemail can be useful in some circumstances, it has considerable disadvantages on a child's mobile phone so ParentShield took the decision after a long review of risks and testing, to remove the function altogether and replace it with some more appropriate functionality. Why Voicemail isn't safe for children Bullies can still leave upsetting messages even if you block their calls Voicemail is stored unencrypted by the 4 big networks Voicemail Hacking is far too easy You don't know if the message has been listened to or not The Phone User is always presumed to be capable of managing the important voicemail PIN Voicemail Hacking Voicemail hacking is the term used for remotely accessing someone else's mobile phone voicemail. It exploits the weaknesses in design that telephone voicemail systems have. Very few users ever reset the default voicemail PIN code for their phone making it a simple job to retrieve any messages that have been left. Mobile phone voicemail messages can be retrieved using a landline and yes voicemail PIN. While we tend to think of... --- - Published: 2023-04-17 - Modified: 2023-04-17 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/mobile-phone-safety-according-to-ai/ We thought we'd ask the now ubiquitous Artificial Intelligence Chat GPT a question: Write a 1000 word essay on the topic of: “Is it safe for an 11 year old to have their own mobile contract. “ The use of mobile phones has become an essential part of our daily lives. Mobile phones have become ubiquitous and are widely used by people of all ages. The use of mobile phones is no longer limited to making phone calls and sending messages; mobile phones now offer a wide range of features, such as access to the internet, social media, and various other apps. With the increasing use of mobile phones, the question arises: is it safe for an 11-year-old to have their own mobile contract? The answer to this question depends on various factors, such as the child's maturity level, the reason for getting a mobile phone, and the supervision and monitoring provided by the parents or guardians. The first factor to consider is the child's maturity level. An 11-year-old child is at the cusp of adolescence and is likely to have a developing sense of independence. However, this does not necessarily mean that they are ready to handle the responsibility of owning a mobile phone. It is essential to consider the child's level of responsibility and maturity before giving them a mobile phone. Some children may be more responsible and mature than others and may be able to handle the responsibility of owning a mobile phone. However, other children may... --- - Published: 2023-04-01 - Modified: 2026-01-12 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/parentshield-app-quickstart-guide/ ParentShield has switched from the old app to a more modern 'PWA' - Progressive Web App that will be far easier and nicer to use. It will also provide real-time push alerts about calls and texts. Here is our QuickStart guide with the steps you need to take to install it on your mobile phone. Not your child's mobile phone! 1. Install the App onto your home screen Open your default browser ( Chrome, Safari, Edge, Firefox and Brave all work well. For iPhone / iOS you must use Safari. ) Navigate to: https://my. engine-mobile. co. uk or open the Portal from the menu at https://parentshield. co. uk Install the App to your Homescreen iPhone / iOS Android Windows / Desktop 2. Subscribe to Notifications Once the App is installed you can get to the Portal directly from the shortcut that will now be on your Homescreen or desktop. Log in there and make sure you opt to store your password so you can log in again using face or fingerprint recognition. Once that's done you will want to activate notifications in the Portal Settings Tab. As soon as you subscribe to notifications you'll start to receive push notifications about calls and texts to or from your child's phone. Go to the Settings Tab - and turn on notifications Click on 'Fine Tune' to select the things you want to be notified about. --- - Published: 2023-03-31 - Modified: 2023-04-04 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/setting-up-push-notifications-on-an-iphone/ Apple have recently added support for Push Notifications to Mobile Safari, in the latest iOS 16. 4, but this is still being treated as an "experimental feature". (This could not possibly have anything to do with Apple potentially making less money, if everyone can get notifications without having to download an app from the App Store ... . . ) Here's our illustrated, step-by-step guide to getting it working. Make sure your iPhone is updated to the latest iOS : Go to Settings → General → Software Update and install the latest version (16. 4 is the first version to include Push API support; there might be an even newer version out by the time you are reading this). NOTE: iOS versions 16. 1 to 16. 3 include a "Push API" switch in settings, but it does not do anything ... . . so make sure it really is 16. 4! 2. Add the Portal to your Home Screen : This is important, as iOS only allows web sites to send push notifications if they have a shortcut on the Home Screen. Scroll the screen up, and then back down to bring up the address bar and option icons. Click the "share" icon -- the box with an arrow pointing away from it -- and select "Add to Home Screen". Click "Add" in the top right corner. 3. Exit out of Safari and click the new shortcut icon that has been added to your home screen. You might have to... --- - Published: 2023-03-29 - Modified: 2024-03-21 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/new-correspondent-alerts/ ParentShield has become First Mobile Network to Instantly Notify Parents of New Mobile Phone Correspondents their children may have. Derby-headquartered UK-wide Mobile Network ParentShield, has become the first mobile network to instantly notify parents if their child starts communicating with a new correspondent on their mobile phone. ParentShield is the innovative MVNO that has created waves by re-defining the mobile network from a parent's point of view, adding dozens of protective features into its safe network for first phone users. A new correspondent is often a time for increased vigilance and lookout for any other signs of concern. The new alerts are sent via push notification to parents via the company's new Progressive Web App and cover both telephone calls and SMS messages. This allows parents to keep track of who their children are communicating with, and to take action if they feel the need to. The alerts go out in real time so parents can act immediately should they have any cause for concern, While parents may be happy day-to-day with their child's current friends and conversations - the addition of a new correspondent is often a sign that prompts new vigilance. "Customers have been telling us that they like how ParentShield has given them the ability to know if their child has struck up a conversation with an unfamiliar person, " says Paul Stevenson CMO. "We took this and made it even easier so that parents can relax - knowing that they will receive regular automatic alerts direct... --- - Published: 2023-03-24 - Modified: 2023-03-25 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/time-controls-on-parentshield/ Occasionally we get a question about data time controls. It's sometimes asked if we can customise SchoolBlock times from 3pm to 3:10 which is an individual school finishing time. Or start the blocking at 8:50 rather than 9am. It's something we've experimented with a little and we have landed on the solution we have after a few years of experience offering this feature. Here's why and how... The below is mostly about data however. Calls and texts probably need a separate explanation so I'll add a bit at the bottom about that in case that's what you need. See you on the other side... When a new customer joins ParentShield, the first thing the'll usually set is time controls for a child's mobile phone. Bedtime is a real issue for parents. This feature is used by a majority of ParentShield subscribers and we're told every day how much help it is! Because the ParentShield time controls are 'network-side' it means they're completely impossible to circumvent. Time controls on a phone itself can often be bypassed as simply as changing the clock time on the phone. This is well within the skillset of a 12 year old who'd rather be scrolling TikTok than sleeping. Outside of the allowed times whenever the phone asks to create a data session the ParentShield system checks to see if the time is allowed and sends the appropriate response to the phone. Does this mean data will be working EXACTLY to these set times? No -... --- - Published: 2023-02-15 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/how-to-set-up-location-tracking-on-your-childs-android-phone/ At ParentShield, we are often asked for advice around the best way for parents to locate a child’s Android phone, and on the best tracking applications out there for Android phones. We find that the majority of parents are unaware that their phones have this facility built-in, without a need for other applications. Google’s version of this is ‘Find My Device’ and you can set this up using their free Family Link application. *If you're just getting started, please see our guide to setting up an Android phone for your child* How to set up Family Link The first job is to set up Family Link using our step by step guide to setting up family link for a child’s phone Locating a child's Android phone is easy with Family Link How to locate your child’s Android phone with Family Link Once Family Link has been set up correctly, you can find your chid’s Android phone at any time in Family Link once device location sharing is turned on. On YOUR PHONE, Open the Family Link app. Go to Location and press ‘Set up’ Choose which child you want to turn on location sharing for Press ‘Turn on’ Get the most accurate location for your child's Android phone On YOUR PHONE, Open the Family Link app. Go to Location  Choose your child At the top right, press More : then choose ‘Location settings’ Choose your Child’s phone Select ‘High accuracy’ Do I need mobile data to locate my child’s phone?... --- - Published: 2023-02-14 - Modified: 2025-03-12 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/how-to-set-up-location-tracking-on-a-childs-iphone/ We are often asked about the best way to locate a child’s phone when they are out and about, and for information on the best tracking application. At ParentShield, we find that the majority of parents are unaware that their phones have this facility built-in, without a need for other applications. Apple’s version of this is ‘Find My’ and you can set this up using Family Sharing.   How to set up Family Sharing  Family Sharing allows you to set up a family group of up to 6 members (including you) for you to locate your children’s iPhone’s.   One Adult (you) will be the ‘organiser’ and will invite your children to join. When they join, Family sharing is set up on all of their devices automatically. The group are able to choose which services and features they would like to use and share (more information on this will follow below) Locating a child's iPhone is easy to set up with Family Sharing Make a Family Sharing Group 1) On YOUR PHONE go to Settings > Click on your name at the top > click on ‘Family Sharing’ Now follow the onscreen instructions to make your Family Sharing Group  2) Add your children. (you can add a second parent and designate them as such) 3) Tap ‘Locations’ to set this up for your Family Sharing group and follow the onscreen instructions for it. Now when you go into the ‘Find My’ app you will be able to see the location... --- - Published: 2023-02-10 - Modified: 2023-02-13 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/how-to-monitor-a-childs-instagram/ What is Instagram? Instagram has a minimum age of 13 and is a social media platform for sharing photos, videos, and stories. The platform has over 1 billion monthly active users and is available as a free app for Android and iOS. Instagram allows users to post content and interact with other users through likes, comments, and direct messaging. The platform has a range of features including filters, hashtags, and IGTV, a video platform for longer-form video content. Users can also follow other users and see their content in their feed, and search for content through the Explore page. Additionally, Instagram offers various privacy and security options, such as setting your account to private and blocking or reporting accounts that violate the platform's community guidelines. ParentShield automatically blocks the setup SMS messages for Instagram and various other social media apps. If the app requires a phone number for registration, we catch the SMS that is sent before it arrives at the phone. This code is held in the online portal, where you can forward it to the phone to allow it, or disregard and they won't be able to proceed with registration. ParentShield is the only network that blocks setup messages for social media apps. Monitoring or Supervising Instagram Instagram has a feature called "Supervision" which provides tools for parents and guardians to support their teens (aged 13-17) on the platform. With supervision set up, parents can monitor activity and usage of the teen's Instagram account, set usage time limits... --- - Published: 2023-01-26 - Modified: 2023-01-26 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/what-is-interland-and-why-might-it-be-useful-for-your-child/ Schools, such as Hilderthorpe Primary in Bridlington, are introducing Interland to their students to help raise the discussion of online safety and kindness at an early age. But what is Interland, and why might it be useful for your child? Year 6 have been discussing online kindness and exploring “Interland,” an online safety game. #hildYear6 pic. twitter. com/itIgCyTWOg— Hilderthorpe Primary (@HilderthorpeSch) January 24, 2023 What is Interland? Interland is Google's adventure-packed online game within the 'Be Internet Legends' resources that makes learning about digital safety and citizenship interactive and fun. To make the most of the internet, children need to make smart decisions. Be Internet Legends empowers younger children to use the web safely and wisely, so they can be confident explorers of the online world with a host of resources, including the Interland game. The fundamentals of their code are: Think before you share Check it's for real Protect your stuff Respect each other When in doubt, discuss Can my Child's School get involved with Interland? Absolutely. As part of Safer Internet Day on Tuesday 7th February 2023, the Internet safety experts, ParentZone, have teamed up with Google to allow Schools to join a free virtual assembly and take pupils on an exciting adventure with Be Internet Legends. Their first ever Safer Internet Day event will help children to learn about safer, more positive decision-making. Their one-off interactive assembly is streaming to schools from 9. 30am-10am on Tuesday 7 February. Schools can sign up here and ParentZone will send them... --- - Published: 2023-01-19 - Modified: 2023-01-29 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/ofsted-boss-internet-warning/ During an interview on BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC News reports that Amanda Spielman, Ofsted's chief inspector, says she is "surprised" when primary school children have smartphones. She added "The first thing you can do is not give a child a smartphone when they're too young,” When asked whether she thought no child under the age of 11 should be given smartphones, she said: "I'm not comfortable with younger children having unlimited internet access. ” Parents can make it safe for younger children to use mobile phones How can you make a mobile phone safe for younger children? Use a child-safe mobile network, such as ParentShield  Using a fully monitored and controlled service, such as ParentShield, allows the control of mobile data in multiple ways - all remotely, from the ParentShield portal: SchoolBlock Time Controls Remote ON/OFF controls SIM card with no data This means that you have full control over when the phone can use mobile data, so that it can be used at times where it can be properly monitored, or just for location purposes. Additionaly, time controls and SchoolBlock also restrict calls and texts to prevent classroom distractions. Set Internet controls if introducing a smartphone  When intruding a smartphone, we would advise setting up phone parental controls in addition to the ParentShield service so that you can control access via Wifi and personal hotspots etc, and manage applications and Internet access, for full control. Consider a non-smartphone Smartphones are not the only option, particularly for younger children. For... --- - Published: 2023-01-18 - Modified: 2023-01-19 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/sim-cards-for-old-phones/ With the rise of foldable phones, we have seen a spike in popularity for old flip phones with UK children. According to a 2022 report from International Data Corporation, they witnessed worldwide shipments of foldable phones, inclusive of both flip and fold form factors, reach a total of 7. 1 million units in 2021. This represents an increase of 264. 3% over the 1. 9 million units shipped in 2020 With the hefty price tag attached to new foldable and flip phones for kids, many children are going retro and asking for an old flip phone - they may look cool, but this raises a few questions for their parents. Parents are buying retro flip phones for kids Can you still get SIM cards for old phones? Yes. ParentShield SIM cards fit ANY unlocked mobile phone as they are a Tri-Cut Universal Type SIM and are 2G, 3G and 4G compatible, and 5G ready, so there's never a worry. What size SIM card do I need for an old phone? A ParentShield SIM Card will always be a Tri-Cut Universal Type SIM. The plastic surround to the actual SIM chip has been pre-cut to allow it to press out to each of the three sizes. This means you don’t have to worry about SIM Sizes. The general rule of thumb is that the newer the phone the smaller the SIM, so really old flip phones will almost certainly be the Mini size ( the biggest ) In any case we... --- - Published: 2023-01-16 - Modified: 2023-01-30 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/talk-and-text-only-plans/ When providing a phone for a child, parents don’t necessarily require (or wish to allow) access to a mobile data allowance, so prefer a talk and text only plan. Talk and text only plans have no mobile data What is a talk and text plan? A talk and text plan is a SIM plan that offers inclusive calls and texts, but is essentially a SIM card with no data. This makes it impossible for the child to use mobile data, as there is no mobile data included in the allowances. This means that any application that requires data, such as the web browser, music streaming, iMessage / Google Chat etc, will require the phone to be connected to Wifi for it to work - usually at home, where it can be properly monitored. Talk and text only plan FAQ’s Can I locate the phone on a talk and text plan? Usually, talk and text plans are a no data sim, meaning that mobile data is totally disabled. Or, have the option to add a data bundle, but this can be used for all things internet and not for location alone. With ParentShield however, we know that both locating the Childs phone, and blocking the ability to use mobile data is something that needs to be managed simultaneously when it’s for a child. All of ParentShield’s plans are designed with the tools to instantly toggle a Childs SIM between talk and text only plans and allowing the use of mobile data.... --- - Published: 2023-01-13 - Modified: 2023-03-04 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/no-anonymous-callers/ If you are calling a child's phone and you hear a "The owner of this mobile phone does not permit calls from withheld numbers; please enable caller-ID and try again" message then it's fairly certain that the number, and caller, you are calling is protected by ParentShield. Here is the exact ParentShield message for you to compare: Anonymous calls cause stress, anxiety and may be from an untrusted individual. ParentShield allows parents to completely protect their children from callers who shouldn't be calling. ParentShield is a special network that allows for calls to young or vulnerable children to be monitored and recorded by their parents or guardians. Every customer has the ability to turn on Withheld Number blocking in their ParentShield Portal. This is particularly useful for a phone in the hands of a child as there are very few reasons a legitimate caller would want or need to be anonymous. Blocking anonymous calls on the phone itself means allowing the ability for the user to decide wether or not to allow anonymous calls - again - not really appropriate for a child's phone. Blocking anonymous calls at the phone level will almost certainly divert the caller to a voicemail message that will alert on the phone. An anonymous voicemail message is arguably even worse than an anonymous call where it's possible for a competent user to at least question the caller about their identity and decide whether or not to continue! A call that's blocked by ParentShield is totally... --- - Published: 2023-01-12 - Modified: 2023-01-13 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/warnings-over-tinder-style-app-used-by-uk-children/ News publications such as Manchester Evening News and Daily Record, have been warning parents about the Yubo app - branded ‘Tinder for teens’ So, what is the ‘tinder-for-teens’ Yubo app, and what are the reported warnings? Publications issue warnings over 'tinder-style' app used by UK children What is Yubo? Yubo is a live streaming application that allows its users to connect with people worldwide based on common interests, gender or location. With a slogan of 'Get friends. Get real. Go live. ' their site describes itself as "your live social discovery app. Join the fun, chat, play games, and live stream. There’s always a place for you here. Ready to Yubo? " and "instantly connects you with people all over the world. Find your crew based on your interests, jump into a livestream and discover something new, or play a game and show off your skills. All you need to do? Bring your true self! " Is Yubo dangerous for children? An investigation by the Sunday Times uncovered racism and sexual abuse when posing as a 15 year old girl. National Online Safety, a provider of online safety e-learning and resources for Schools, issued a stark warning to parents following this to discourage use: "We don't often advise totally avoiding an app, but due to the concerns Yobu has generated of late (the 2022 Sunday Times exposé and a recent abduction case in which the alleged perpetrator met a teenage girl through the app) and the fact that inappropriate content... --- - Published: 2023-01-06 - Modified: 2023-01-09 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/adding-call-parent-shortcuts-to-the-home-screen-of-an-iphone/ From time to time we are updated on handy tips and tricks by Children using the ParentShield service themselves. The most recent of which was an email from one of our parents including a really helpful suggestion from their Child asking us to share this with you to help other Children that may need to call a Parent or Guardian quickly, with one press of a button on the Home Screen... 'Call Mum' by Cohen age 11. Using the Shortcuts application, you can create shortcuts to call or text any number of contacts from your Childs address book to the Home Screen, making it a really simple and fast process to contact home. Cohen has sent a step by step guide on how to do this, which we take pleasure in sharing with you today. Click into the Shortcuts app 2. Click on the + symbol 3. Click 'Add Action' 4. Type 'Call' in the search bar 5. Click the 'Call' icon 6. Click on the word 'Contact' next to the call icon and then choose the contact that you want to create a shortcut for 7. Click on the icon at the very top and click 'rename' to label the shortcut and then click 'Add to Home Screen' 8. Click 'Add' to complete And that's it, you can now dial the contact with one press of the 'Call Mum' button on the Home Screen, which could be very useful indeed in an emergency situation - thanks Cohen! --- - Published: 2023-01-05 - Modified: 2023-01-05 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/smartwatch-vs-smartphone-which-is-best-for-a-child/ Choosing between a Smartwatch and Smartphone is usually a crossroad that parents face in cases where there are concerns around providing a mobile phone. We look at the most common parental concerns and the benefits of both options based on feedback from our conversations with parents: Are Smartwatches or Smartphones best for a child? Advantages of a Smartphone for a child Rapid access to information  Easy to communicate with friends  Geolocation Equal to their peer group  Keeping up with technology  No cost in handing down an old phone Disadvantages of a Smartphone for a child Seeing something they shouldn’t Prank calling  Strangers contacting their child Cyber bullying  Excessive usage  Access to Social Media platforms  If you are leaning towards a Smartphone, we have guide to the best phone contracts for kids Advantages of a Smartwatch for a child Overcomes the fear of a Smartphone Limited functions Geolocation  Can be a low cost gift Less likely to lose it SOS button Disadvantages of a Smartwatch for a child Limited functions  Can be difficult to set up Product quality  Not equal to peer group Child may not use it Can be difficult to operate If you are leaning towards a Smartwatch, we have complied a guide to the best kids phone watch Best SIM card for kids Smartwatch ParentShield SIM cards are perfect for a Child's Smartwatch as they are 2G, 3G, 4G compatible and 5G ready, so whether it's a Smartphone, Dumbphone or Smartwatch, we've got you covered. Plus, all of... --- - Published: 2022-12-05 - Modified: 2022-12-06 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/mobile-phones-for-kids-parents-website-choice/ At ParentShield, we speak to 100’s of parents every week shopping for mobile phones for kids to go with the best sim for kids. Some will go for brand new, some refurbished and some pre-owned. Others will upgrade their own phone and hand over their old contract phone - everyone’s a winner! Whatever you choose, ParentShield will always try and help by passing on information gathered from conversations with parents and, in this case, it’s where they are finding the best deals on those mobile phones for kids. We have listed a few websites here as parents tell us where they have been shopping online, for in case it helps anyone else starting out. Shopping for Mobile Phones for Kids Mobile Phones for Kids from Carphone Warehouse Carphone Warehouse offer a great selection of Sim Free mobile phones for kids. Prices start from around £18 and although it does go as high as around £2,000, It has a great low to mid-range selection. Website Mobile Phones for Kids from eBay  eBay is a popular website with a selection of new, used and refurbished phones. Purchases are protected by PayPal, so should the worst happen, you’re covered. Website Mobile Phones for Kids from Amazon Amazon offers a wide range of SIM-Free & unlocked mobile phones and many parents tell us that they have brought mobile phones for kids from here as a trusted retailer. Website Mobile Phones for Kids from Argos Argos has been a popular choice with our parents as... --- - Published: 2022-11-29 - Modified: 2023-01-29 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/capped-sim-plans-for-kids/ Choosing a SIM plan for a child needs some careful consideration, as the SIM plan that you’re handing over will ultimately be linked to your credit or debit card. This could lead to mammoth shock bills if not handled carefully. All networks offer a spending cap though, right? But is it really capped? What is a spending cap and what does it cover? The ParentShield live chat team speak to 100’s of parents each week for general support, pre-sales questions and discussions around all things ‘kids mobile contracts’. Many pre-sales conversations will include the golden question - “can we add a spending cap? ”  We wondered, if the very same question was asked to all mobile networks, what would the ‘spending cap’ actually cover? The ParentShield research team did a quick web search to compile some information to see how this looks with each network. ParentShield spending cap What is covered if you add a ParentShield spending cap? You don’t need to. ParentShield is totally capped out of the box. It’s impossible for the child to put even 1p on the bill. Ever. What is not covered by a ParentShield spending cap? Nothing. It’s totally impossible for the child to add to the bill in any way. Guaranteed. Source EE spending cap What is covered if you add an EE spending cap?  out of allowance calls, texts and picture messages to standard UK and EU numbers  EU Roaming £2 per day charge (on plans starting after 7 July 2021)  out... --- - Published: 2022-11-24 - Modified: 2022-11-24 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/protecting-children-from-scam-text-messages/ Scammers are becoming more sophisticated, which means that their messages look ever more genuine. This is worrying enough when the recipient is an Adult, but when it’s a child, infinitely more so.   As ParentShield is built around the needs of children, there are many protections in place to protect the most vulnerable mobile phone users from dangerous scam text messages. How can I stop scam text messages from going to my child’s phone? Every ParentShield SIM-only plan comes with parent access to a secure online portal, where the parent or guardian can tailor their child’s mobile service around their needs. Ultra-Secure mode is just one of many features, and this allows the phone to be placed into a ‘closed user group’ so only the ‘home numbers’ and any other numbers that you specifically add into the Safe List will be able to call or text your child’s phone ( or by it ) With any other mobile network, it would be a case of blocking the sender after they have been sent, which a) means they have already received it, and b) means it will be received again if they send using a different presentation number - this is absolutely no use when trying to protect a child from scam text messages.   What are the latest scam text messages? A few of the latest scam text messages doing the rounds are as follows: Broken phone scam The 'broken phone scam' is a phishing text message aimed at 'mums'.... --- - Published: 2022-11-23 - Modified: 2022-11-23 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/introducing-parentshield-controls-to-your-child/ A common question we are asked, and here discussed, is "How do I introduce ParentShield to my child? " and "How will they feel knowing they have a monitored Mobile phone? " Here are some of our users' experiences and the things we've learned in case it's useful to anyone with the same concern. Honesty is the b̶e̶s̶t̶ only policy We always strongly advise that parents are honest with children about the monitoring they are doing, or capable of doing. It's the only way to build and maintain trust, and it's highlighted in the Information Commissioner's Parent App design code as an important issue. ParentShield does text every phone that is set up on the network to inform the user for this reason. It wouldn't be right to allow a monitored service to be set up on absolutely anyone's phone without their knowledge. If the phone is set to record calls then the caller calling a ParentShield phone will hear a recorded call announcement and this will almost certainly become a discussion with the ParentShield phone user, so if they are going to find out that it's recorded, it's obviously important that they hear it from you first. It's rarely a problem Here at ParentShield as we strive to build the best SIM for kids, we have conversations every single day with customers, with their child by their side. Going through the ParentShield Portal together trying out the features and seeing how the recordings and time controls work. Many new... --- - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2023-01-30 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/parent-child-phone-mistakes/ The Christmas rush has begun as parents start ticking off their Children's wish lists, and that very first mobile phone frequently appears. Securing a SIM-Only deal and packaging a pre-owned phone is also an economical solution.   But, it is big step, and many parents that put off their child's requests over the Summer Holidays are finally giving in and looking for the best solutions - whether that be hunting for the best sim card for kids a sim with no data, or phone contracts for kids - mistakes are often made. 1. Give them a phone that you can afford to lose The latest Smartphone's are always going to be a first choice for a child, but the reality is that your child is quite likely to lose, damage or break their first phone - handing down your old contract phone, purchasing a lower cost pre-owned phone, or opting for a basic feature phone, is a sensible way of starting them out. It's also best to give them the safest phone for the age of the child or if they're very young, you may want to look at emergency phones for children 2. Check that the phone is unlocked Although Ofcom have finally ruled that all new phones must be sold unlocked to all networks, the out-of-contract phones already out there still need to be manually requested to be unlocked to use with a different network. It’s a simple process though: just call the network that originally supplied the... --- - Published: 2022-11-09 - Modified: 2023-01-29 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/sun-cards/ Sun Cards? , I hear you ask. Yes. The ParentShield live chat team have found that Sun card is a common misspelling of SIM card ( busy parents have the need to type quickly ) so we thought it would be a good idea to list the most frequent Sun card questions for in case you do a quick search and land here. Sun card is a common misspelling of SIM card What do the sun cards do? The SIM cards themselves are roaming SIM cards, originally designed for Emergency Services, VIP’s and lone-workers. They roam across all UK networks, 3UK, Vodafone, O2 and EE for the best possible coverage. This is clear practical and safety benefit for any user. There is a rundown of the main portal features and a little walkthrough video of how it works here https://parentshield. co. uk/parentshield-portal/ How do I apply for a sun card? Simply place an order directly from the ParentShield website here https://parentshield. co. uk/sim-only/ or call us on 0330 122 1180. What network does the sun card piggyback on? Our SIM cards connect to all UK networks, 3UK, Vodafone, O2 and EE - you can learn more about this here https://parentshield. co. uk/network-selection-help/ How quick can you get a sun card? We ship same day First Class as standard, but also have the option of Special Delivery for an additional fee ( cost price ) at checkout  What size is the sun card? Our SIM cards are 3-way universal SIM cards,... --- - Published: 2022-11-02 - Modified: 2022-11-02 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/using-the-parentshield-api/ Did you know, that if you're a programmer type you can extend or automate your ParentShield Portal by using the ParentShield API. An API is an "Application Programming Interface" - a set of instructions that allows programmers to link separate computer systems. If you are familiar with such things you can download the ParentShield API manual and use it to build automations or perform repetitive tasks or build complex alerts. Download the ParentShield API handbook here: Let us know what you build! We love to hear from customers who have used the API to build their own Child Safeguarding add-ons to their ParentShield SIM card. Although everything you need is in the API Guide, its author is always on-hand for support should you have any queries. We can't support general programming queries of course. The General principles of the ParentShield API are that of a "Restful" API known as REST. It's quite comprehensive and allows you do do, programatically, virtually anything that you can do via the ParentShield Portal. Parentshield is the only child-protection Mobile Network. --- - Published: 2022-10-24 - Modified: 2023-01-29 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/parents-guide-to-tiktok-family-pairing/ TikTok allows the streaming and sharing of video content and direct messaging, which for obvious reasons can be a real worry for parents, and is the reason it has a minimum age restriction of 13 (and recommended 15+) in the UK. The majority of ParentShield users are well below this threshold, but for those that need it, we have compiled a guide to setting up the Family Pairing feature to link their account to yours so that you can apply some parental controls for them via your own account. How to set up TikTok Family Pairing What is TikTok’s Family Pairing feature? TikTok’s Family Pairing feature allows parents to link their TikTok account to their child’s account to enable a variety of content and privacy settings, including Screen Time Management and Restricted Mode  How do I manage my Child's TikTok? Once you have Family Paring set up, you can manage your Childs TikTok experience from your own TikTok account. Our step by step guide to setting this up follows here. How to set up TikTok Family Pairing parental controls Parent Phone From your phone click on 'Profile' in the bottom right panel 2. Then click on the three horizontal lines in the top right panel and choose 'Settings and privacy' 3. Then choose 'family Pairing' 4. Then choose 'Continue' 5. Then let TikTok know that you're the parent It will now present you with a QR code - leave that on your screen and switch to the Childs phone. Child... --- --- ## Products - Published: 2025-04-02 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/product/watch-plan/ - SKU: ParentShield_Safe_Stage_1-1 - Price: 9.99 GBP ParentShield Watch Plan ParentShield Child-Safe Mobile Network SIM Only Universal Child SIM - Fits ALL phones. Runs on the best UK single network Secure Portal that records all Call and SMS activity on this SIM. Unlimited calls to any 2 numbers ( mobile or landline ) of your choice so that the ParentShield user can always be in contact Overspending is Impossible 100 Minutes 100 Texts 1GB Mobile Data for Location and Messaging Rolling Monthly Contract Upgrade to include Data at any time. Watch Plan is designed for low usage where there is a need for mobile data - such as in a Smart Watch. Can be upgraded at any time to any of the Safe Plan Tariffs --- - Published: 2025-02-28 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/product/pro-stage-2/ - SKU: ParentShield_SafeStage2_2GB-1 - Price: 39.99 GBP ParentShield Pro SIM Stage 2 Universal SIM - Fits all phones. Runs on the UK's best mobile network Secure Portal that records all phone activity on this SIM. Overspending is Impossible Unlimited Calls Unlimited Texts 2GB Data ( Also Available as a NO DATA SIM ) Live Cell Tower Location Rolling Monthly Contract Pro Stage 2 includes sufficient data for location purposes, instant messaging and occasional Web searching and emails throughout a month. Upgrade at any time without changing the SIM if you need more data. --- - Published: 2025-02-28 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/product/pro-stage-3/ - SKU: ParentShield_SafeStageThree_50GB-1 - Price: 49.99 GBP ParentShield Pro SIM Stage 3 Universal SIM - Fits all phones. Runs on the UK's best mobile network Secure Portal that records all phone activity on this SIM. Overspending is Impossible Unlimited Calls Unlimited Texts 50 GB Data Live Cell Tower Location Rolling Monthly Contract Pro Stage 3 includes sufficient data for location purposes, instant messaging, Web searching, rich streaming and emails throughout a month. Upgrade at any time without changing the SIM if you need more data. --- - Published: 2025-02-28 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/product/pro-stage-4/ - SKU: ParentShield_SafeStageFour_100GB-1 - Price: 59.99 GBP ParentShield Pro SIM Stage 4 Universal SIM - Fits all phones. Runs on the UK's best single network Secure Portal that records all phone activity on this SIM. Overspending is Impossible Unlimited Calls Unlimited Texts 100 GB Data Live Cell Tower Location Rolling Monthly Contract Pro Stage 4 includes sufficient data for location purposes, instant messaging, music, rich media streaming and emails throughout a month. Upgrade at any time without changing the SIM if you need more data. --- - Published: 2025-02-28 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/product/pro-stage-5/ - SKU: ParentShield_SafeStage5_Unlimited-1 - Price: 69.99 GBP ParentShield Pro SIM Stage 5 Universal SIM - Fits all phones. Runs on the UK's best mobile network Secure Portal that records all phone activity on this SIM. Overspending is Impossible Unlimited Calls Unlimited Texts Unlimited Data Live Cell Tower Location Rolling Monthly Contract Pro Stage 5 is ideal for anyone who never wants to worry about limits or usage. Perfect for the heaviest data user. --- - Published: 2025-02-26 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/product/safestage1/ - SKU: ParentShield_Safe_Stage_1 - Price: 5.99 GBP ParentShield Child SIM Safe Stage 1 ParentShield Child-Safe Mobile Network SIM Only Universal Child SIM - Fits ALL phones Runs on the best UK single network Secure Portal that records all phone activity on this SIM. Unlimited calls to any 2 numbers ( mobile or landline ) of your choice so that the ParentShield user can always be in contact Overspending is Impossible 100 Minutes 100 Texts No Mobile Data or Tracking Rolling Monthly Contract Upgrade to include Data at any time. Safe Stage 1 is the usual starting point for younger children getting their first mobile phone. There is no mobile data, although the phone will of course connect to WiFi when at home. Can be upgraded at any time to a plan with Mobile Data to allow tracking or web browsing and streaming without changing SIM or number. --- - Published: 2025-02-26 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/product/safestage2/ - SKU: ParentShield_SafeStage2_2GB - Price: 15.99 GBP ParentShield Child SIM Safe Stage 2 Universal SIM - Fits all phones. Runs on the UK's best mobile network Secure Portal that records all phone activity on this SIM. Overspending is Impossible Unlimited Calls Unlimited Texts 2GB Data ( Also Available as a NO DATA SIM ) Rolling Monthly Contract Safe Stage 2 includes sufficient data for location purposes, instant messaging and occasional Web searching and emails throughout a month. Upgrade at any time without changing the SIM if you need more data. --- - Published: 2025-02-26 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/product/safestage3/ - SKU: ParentShield_SafeStageThree_50GB - Price: 20.99 GBP ParentShield Child SIM Safe Stage 3 Universal SIM - Fits all phones. Runs on the UK's best mobile network Secure Portal that records all phone activity on this SIM. Overspending is Impossible Unlimited Calls Unlimited Texts 50 GB Data Rolling Monthly Contract Safe Stage 3 includes sufficient data for location purposes, instant messaging, Web searching, rich streaming and emails throughout a month. Upgrade at any time without changing the SIM if you need more data. --- - Published: 2025-02-26 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/product/safestage4/ - SKU: ParentShield_SafeStageFour_100GB - Price: 29.99 GBP ParentShield Child SIM Safe Stage 4 Universal SIM - Fits all phones. Runs on the UK's best single network Secure Portal that records all phone activity on this SIM. Overspending is Impossible Unlimited Calls Unlimited Texts 100 GB Data Rolling Monthly Contract Safe Stage 4 includes sufficient data for location purposes, instant messaging, music, rich media streaming and emails throughout a month. Upgrade at any time without changing the SIM if you need more data. --- - Published: 2025-02-26 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/product/safestage5/ - SKU: ParentShield_SafeStage5_Unlimited - Price: 39.99 GBP ParentShield Child SIM Safe Stage 5 Universal SIM - Fits all phones. Runs on the UK's best mobile network Secure Portal that records all phone activity on this SIM. Overspending is Impossible Unlimited Calls Unlimited Texts Unlimited Data Rolling Monthly Contract Safe Stage 5 is ideal for anyone who never wants to worry about limits or usage. Perfect for the heaviest data user. --- - Published: 2022-06-20 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/product/safe-stage-5/ - SKU: ParentShield_SafePlanPlus3GB-1 - Price: 39.99 GBP ParentShield Child SIM Safe Stage 5 Universal SIM - Fits ALL phones. SIM will connect to EE, Vodafone, O2, Three automatically as required Secure Portal that records all phone activity on this SIM. Overspending is Impossible 500 Minutes 500 Texts 10GB Data Rolling Monthly Contract --- - Published: 2022-06-20 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/product/safe-stage-6/ - SKU: ParentShield_SafePlanPlus10GB-2 - Price: 59.99 GBP ParentShield Child SIM Safe Stage 6 Universal SIM - Fits ALL phones. Choose your Favourite Network! help Secure Portal that records all phone activity on this SIM. Overspending is Impossible 500 Minutes 500 Texts 20GB Data Rolling Monthly Contract --- - Published: 2021-05-24 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/product/safe-2/ - SKU: ParentShield_SafeStageThree_1GB - Price: 19.99 GBP ParentShield Child SIM Safe Stage 3 Universal SIM - Fits ALL phones. SIM will connect to EE, Vodafone, O2, Three automatically as required Secure Portal that records all phone activity on this SIM. Overspending is Impossible Unlimited Minutes Unlimited Texts 1GB Data Unlimited Extra Data for Tracking Rolling Monthly Contract --- - Published: 2020-06-04 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/product/safe3/ - SKU: ParentShield_SafeStageFour_4GB - Price: 29.99 GBP ParentShield Child SIM Safe Stage 4 Universal SIM - Fits all phones. SIM will connect to EE, Vodafone, O2, Three automatically as required Secure Portal that records all phone activity on this SIM. Overspending is Impossible Unlimited Calls Unlimited Texts 4 GB Data Rolling Monthly Contract Roam Stage 4 includes sufficient data for location purposes, instant messaging, music, and emails throughout a month. Upgrade at any time without changing the SIM if you need more data. --- - Published: 2019-01-15 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/product/family-plan-nodata/ - SKU: ParentShield_FamilyPlan_Nodata - Price: 15.99 GBP ParentShield No-Data Mobile Network SIM Smart SIM - Breaks out to Nano, Micro and Standard Mini formats as required. Secure Portal that records all phone activity on this SIM. Unlimited Minutes Unlimited Texts Data is Disabled - Re-enable at any time you choose Rolling Monthly Contract --- - Published: 2017-12-21 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/product/family-plan/ - SKU: ParentShield_FamilyPlan - Price: 9.99 GBP ParentShield Child SIM Safe Stage 1 ParentShield Child-Safe Mobile Network SIM Only Universal Child SIM - Fits ALL phones. SIM will connect to EE, Vodafone, O2, Three automatically as required Secure Portal that records all phone activity on this SIM. Unlimited calls to any 2 numbers ( mobile or landline ) of your choice so that the ParentShield user can always be in contact Overspending is Impossible 250 Minutes 250 Texts PAYG Data ( optional and by pre-pay only ) Rolling Monthly Contract Safe Stage 1 is the usual starting point for younger children getting their first mobile phone. There is no inclusive data, although the phone will of course connect to WiFi when at home. Any extra data required can be provided by topping up in the portal and unexpected spending is always impossible. --- - Published: 2016-05-16 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://parentshield.co.uk/product/safe/ - SKU: ParentShield_SafePlan - Price: 14.99 GBP ParentShield Child SIM Safe Stage 2 Universal Child SIM - Fits ALL phones. SIM will connect to EE, Vodafone, O2, Three automatically as required Secure Portal that records all phone activity on this SIM. Unlimited calls to any 2 numbers ( mobile or landline ) of your choice so that the ParentShield user can always be in contact Unlimited Tracking Data Overspending is Impossible 500 Minutes 500 Texts 500 MB Data Rolling Monthly Contract Safe Stage 2 includes sufficient data for location purposes, instant messaging and occasional Web searching and emails throughout a month. Data can be used in conjunction with the Daily Data Budgeting feature to ensure that there will always be data available every day of the month. Any extra data required can be provided by the Extra Data for Location button or topping up in the portal and unexpected spending is always impossible. --- ---