YouTube lets you watch, create and comment on videos. You can create your own YouTube account, create a music playlist, and even create your own channel, which means you’ll have a public profile. YouTube allows live streaming.
Official age rating
With your child, explore Restricted Mode which will help filter out more adult content.
Sitting down with your child and exploring their favourite app or game is a great way for you to learn more about what they like to do online.
You can ask them why they like to use an app or play certain games, as well as who they’re talking to and what sorts of things they’re sharing.
You can also read our Net Aware reviews for tips on how to keep kids safe on popular apps, sites and games.
Take the time to explore YouTube’s safety information for parents. and think about which features are right for your child.
We would recommend switching on Restricted Mode and disabling the ‘autoplay’ feature to stop videos playing automatically after one has ended.
Make sure you revisit these settings regularly to see if anything has changed.
Some children might want to create and share their own videos on YouTube.
If you decide that it’s ok for them to do this, help them think about what they’re sharing in them and who can see them. You should set up the account together and set it to private so only their friends can watch them and disable comments.
You should also remind them that they shouldn’t share private things, such as:
• personal information, like names, other social media accounts, their school or location phone numbers
• other people's personal information
• links to join private group chats
• photos of themselves
• photos of their body, such as sexual photos or videos
Your child might see something upsetting or worrying on YouTube. If this happens, they might want to report videos or comments.
YouTube has specific guidance on how to report inappropriate content.
Remember to let your child know that they can always talk to you about things they see online
Explain that you understand the internet is a great place to play, create, learn and connect. But remind them they can talk to you if anything upsets or worries them.
Reassure them that you won’t overreact – you’re just looking out for them.
It’s important to remind your child that they can talk you, another adult they trust, like a teacher, or Childline about anything they see online.
Having open, regular conversations with your child will help you to really understand and explore the online world together. Our tips and advice can help you start these conversations.
Talk about staying safe onlineWe've spoken to over 2,000 parents and kids to find out what they think.
What do children and young people dislike about YouTube;
Some parts can be very safe especially in channels which are aimed at children. But there are haters, bullies and a lot of other weird people.
Boy, 12
What do children and young people like about YouTube?
It really depends on what you watch. I like how you can learn from videos like anti-bullying videos. But people are free to upload without getting warned or told off - there is way too much freedom and people take advantage of this.
Girl, 12
Signing up
It seems to be very simple and anyone can access it as long as they have access to a mobile.
Mum of boys aged 3 and 8
Reporting
It took a while to work it out but once you know how, it is an easy process.
Mum of 14 and 17 year olds
Privacy settings
As long as you know that settings can be changed then it's easy to do.
Mum of a 14 year old girl
Safety and support
You have to search to find the rules, they aren't readily accessible.
Mum of 5 and 9 year olds
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