- Youtube Kids is Not as Safe as You Think
What You Need to Know
YouTube Kids is designed to provide a safe and engaging experience for young viewers, but in reality, it harbors several risks that parents may not be aware of. The platform uses an algorithm to filter content, but inappropriate videos still manage to slip through. Some videos feature beloved children’s characters like Elsa or Spider-Man engaging in suggestive or disturbing behavior—such as spanking, violence, or themes that mimic adult situations.
While Youtube does try to remove these channels and videos, the content creators can quickly reupload and create multiple channels to best reach your child.
Beyond inappropriate content, the autoplay feature can lead children from innocent videos to more questionable material, sometimes without parents realizing. Additionally, the addictive nature of YouTube Kids encourages binge-watching, which can negatively impact a child’s cognitive development, sleep patterns, and ability to focus. Overexposure to screen time at a young age has been linked to increased anxiety, irritability, and reduced attention spans.
What You Should Do
To create a safer digital environment for children, parents should take proactive steps, including:
- Actively Monitoring Content – Parents should regularly check their child’s watch history and sit with them while they view content rather than relying solely on YouTube Kids’ built-in filters.
- Disabling Autoplay – Turning off autoplay prevents children from unintentionally being exposed to inappropriate content as one video leads to another.
- Using Alternative Platforms – Paid streaming services like Netflix Kids, Disney+, or PBS Kids have stronger content moderation and offer a safer experience.
- Setting Screen Time Limits – The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting screen time for young children. Parents should set boundaries and encourage offline activities.
- Using External Parental Controls – Apps like Bark, Qustodio, and Norton Family provide additional content filtering, usage tracking, and alerts for potentially harmful content.
- Enabling YouTube Kids’ Strictest Settings – While not foolproof, using the most restrictive parental controls available on YouTube Kids can help minimize exposure to harmful videos.
Not sure you’re doing enough to protect your child against digital dangers?
Call our cyber parenting hotline or email us for help:
801-692-6200
cyberparentinghelp@invisus.com
