YouTube has only been around since 2005 but has already become the most popular platform for watching and also listening to media. This is the platform where most viral videos came from. For most people, the video-sharing giant is their go-to destination for entertainment, especially Kids. Children have been watching videos on this popular website at a very early age and parents need to be cautious on what kind of content their children are watching.
Parents might not want their kids to stumble upon videos that are inappropriate for them such as videos on "how to drive a car," among other things.
Kids and YouTube
YouTube already has more than a billion users worldwide, which translates to one in three people watch videos on the popular website.
It also drastically changed how kids watch their videos. With just a few clicks on their iPads, computers or other platforms, they can immediately watch what they want without having to wait for any exact day or time. Watching videos on YouTube also made Cable Tv services less interesting.
The most obvious reason for YouTube’s popularity is the fact that it’s free to use. Moreover, there are tons of videos that are readily available for viewing such as trailers for upcoming movies and “How to” videos.
YouTube is also available on any platforms such as Android, iOS or desktop computers.
Is it safe for kids to watch videos on YouTube?
It’s very important for parents to know what videos their kids are watching. Chances are, kids might come across videos that are inappropriate for them to watch just by simply scrolling through hundreds of videos on their devices.
Fortunately, YouTube has created an app called YouTube Kids, which is specifically for children.
The app is available on both Android and iOS devices.
The YouTube Kids also have helpful features including a timer that kids cannot turn off without a passcode. Parents can adjust the age level for the home screen to block inappropriate videos and the “Search” feature can also be turned off.
If the children are using YouTube on a desktop computer, parents can turn on “Restricted Mode,” which can be found at the bottom of the website’s page to block inappropriate videos.
Kids creating their own videos for YouTube
YouTube requires hosts to be at least 13 years old to create their own channel. If kids do create their own channel, it’s important for parents to get involved. They need to know what type of videos their kids want to create and share.
Parents should also be aware that YouTube has its own comments and messaging platform, which means other people can easily communicate with their children. Parents can make their kids’ YouTube channel private or unlisted, which makes their videos available to people who have links to that videos.
Do you know what your kids’ are watching on YouTube?