Can I remove my child from Family Link without deleting account?

Answered by Douglas Hiatt

Removing a child from Family Link without deleting their Google Account is not possible. When you set up Family Link, you create a supervised account for your child, and this account is tied to their Google Account. If you want to remove a child from your Family Link group, their Google Account will also be deleted in the process. Unfortunately, there is no way to remove a child from Family Link without deleting their account.

I understand that this requirement may not be ideal for some parents who want to remove their child’s supervision but allow them to keep their Google Account. However, Google has implemented this policy to ensure the safety and privacy of children online. By deleting the Google Account, the child’s personal information and online activity are no longer linked to the Family Link account.

As an expert, I would like to emphasize the importance of discussing this decision with your child and explaining the reasons behind it. It’s essential to have open and honest communication about online safety and responsible internet usage. By involving your child in the process and addressing their concerns, you can help them understand the reasoning behind removing their account from Family Link.

If you still wish to proceed with removing your child from Family Link and deleting their Google Account, here are the steps to follow:

1. Open the Family Link app or go to g.co/YourFamily on a web browser.
2. Select the child’s account that you want to remove.
3. Go to the settings for that account.
4. Look for the option to “Delete Account” or “Remove Account.”
5. Follow the on-screen prompts to confirm the deletion.

It’s crucial to note that once the account is deleted, all data associated with it will be permanently removed. This includes emails, files, photos, and any other content stored within the account. Therefore, it’s advisable to backup any important data before proceeding with the deletion.

Removing a child from Family Link without deleting their Google Account is not possible. However, by engaging in open communication and explaining the reasons behind the decision, you can help your child understand and navigate the process of removing their account from Family Link.