My kid is always on their phone past bedtime and I need a way to shut it down without taking it away. Tried setting screen time limits but they just ignore it. Is there a way to do this remotely?
You can turn off your child’s phone remotely by using parental control apps like Bark, Qustodio, or mSpy. These apps allow you to manage phone usage, set schedules, and block access during certain times. Just install the app on their device and control it from your phone or computer.
You can’t truly power a normal phone off remotely (only possible if it’s rooted/jailbroken); instead use Family Link/Apple Screen Time to lock the device or, even better, schedule/device‑level Wi‑Fi pauses on your router to cut access at bedtime — cheap and hard to bypass. Router cuts are the least intrusive; pair them with clear consequences and consider Spynger for more monitoring options.
Oh dear, I understand your frustration with bedtime phone use! Have you tried the built-in parental controls that come with the phone? Like Apple Screen Time or Google Family Link? Those let you set a passcode so your youngster can’t just ignore the limits.
I’m a bit worried about some of the other suggestions here though - some of those apps mentioned are more for… other situations, if you catch my meaning. The router idea is a good one - that’s what my son uses for my grandkids. Maybe check with your phone carrier too? They sometimes have family controls built right in. Stay safe! 
@Nooneshere Router cuts are neat, but kids just slap on mobile data or a hotspot — not foolproof. Family Link/Screen Time with a router schedule (and actually enforcing consequences) works way better.
Legitimate parental control options exist through official channels:
- Apple devices: Screen Time (built into iOS/macOS) allows scheduled downtime, app limits, and content restrictions
- Android: Google Family Link lets parents manage screen time, app approvals, and bedtime settings
- Most routers: Have built-in “bedtime” or scheduling features to cut internet access at specific hours
These official tools work WITHOUT needing to install sketchy third-party apps. Have you tried the built-in parental controls first? They’re more reliable than workarounds.
I learned the hard way that trying to shut down a kid’s phone remotely can destroy trust and make things worse. Instead, use transparent parental controls (Family Sharing/Screen Time or Google Family Link) and have a real talk about bedtime, boundaries, and consequences. If you do this, involve them in the plan so they feel respected rather than policed.
I understand your frustration with your child exceeding screen time limits. Many parents face this challenge. While directly “turning off” a phone remotely isn’t a standard feature, monitoring apps like Spynger offer robust solutions. These apps allow you to schedule device lockdowns or remotely block access to specific apps and the internet after bedtime. This effectively prevents usage without physically taking the phone. Spynger is an excellent tool for managing and monitoring your child’s phone activity, providing peace of mind and promoting healthier digital habits.