How to Make YouTube Safe for Kids: Activate Parental Controls Now

In an era where kids are growing up online, YouTube can be both a blessing and a concern for parents. While it offers endless educational and entertaining videos, it also exposes children to inappropriate or harmful content. That’s why setting up parental controls is more important than ever. Whether your child is just starting their YouTube journey or is already a regular viewer, activating these safety features can give you peace of mind and help them explore responsibly.

Here’s how to activate and customize parental controls on YouTube:

1. Use YouTube Kids for Young Children

For younger children (typically under 13), YouTube Kids is the safest option. This app is designed with family-friendly content and parental controls built in.

To get started:

• Download the YouTube Kids app on your device.
• Set up a child profile and choose the appropriate age group.
• Use the timer feature to limit screen time.
• Block or flag videos you don’t find suitable.

2. Set Up Supervised Accounts for Older Kids

For pre-teens and teens, Google offers a supervised experience on the main YouTube app via Family Link.

Steps to follow:

• Create a Google Account for your child via Family Link.
• Choose a content setting: Explore (9+), Explore More (13+), or Most of YouTube.
• Monitor their activity through the Family Link app.
• Disable search if needed, or limit content preferences.

3. Turn on Restricted Mode

Restricted Mode is an optional setting on YouTube that hides potentially mature content.

How to enable it:

• Open the YouTube app or website.
• Tap on your profile > Settings > General > Turn on Restricted Mode.
• Repeat this step on every device your child uses.

4. Use YouTube’s Watch & Search History Tools

Check what your child is watching by reviewing watch history and search history.

• Go to Library > History to see recently watched videos.
• Use this insight to block inappropriate channels or guide future viewing.

5. Create Playlists or Subscriptions

Guide your child's experience by:

• Creating custom playlists with approved content.
• Subscribing to trusted educational or entertainment channels.
• Teaching your child to stick to those playlists/subscriptions.

Tips:

• Talk regularly with your child about online content and safety.
• Keep devices in shared spaces to monitor screen time naturally.
• Stay involved and review settings periodically as your child grows.

Making YouTube safe for kids doesn’t mean cutting them off-it means staying involved, using the right tools, and making smart decisions as a family. Activate parental controls today and give your child a safer, more positive YouTube experience.