YouTube Kids Safety Guide for Parents
A guide to YouTube Kids settings including content levels, search controls, and timer features to help parents manage their child's viewing.
Official age
0+
We recommend
4+
Developer
Google LLC
Risks
3
Overview
YouTube Kids is a child-friendly version of YouTube with simplified navigation, curated content, and stronger parental controls. It offers three content levels — Preschool, Younger, and Older — and includes a built-in timer. Whilst much safer than the main YouTube app, automated content filtering is not infallible.
How children use it
Young children browse colourful thumbnails and watch cartoons, nursery rhymes, educational videos, and content from child-friendly creators. The simplified interface makes it easy for even very young children to navigate independently. Older children may use the search function to find specific shows or topics.
Main risks
Recommended privacy settings
Content Level
Location: Parent Settings (lock icon) → Child's Profile → Content Level
Set to: Match to your child's age group (Preschool / Younger / Older)
Sets the range of content available. Preschool is the most restricted; Older allows content suitable for ages 8-12.
Search
Location: Parent Settings (lock icon) → Child's Profile → Search
Set to: Off (for children under 7)
Disabling search limits your child to content curated for the home screen, giving you greater control over what they can find.
Approved Content Only
Location: Parent Settings (lock icon) → Child's Profile → Approved Content Only
Set to: On (for maximum control)
Only shows channels, videos, or collections you have specifically approved. The most restrictive and safest option.
Parent actions
Set the correct content level for your child's age and consider enabling Approved Content Only mode
Time: 10 minutes
Use the built-in timer to set a daily viewing limit rather than relying on your child to stop voluntarily
Time: 2 minutes
Periodically check what your child has been watching by reviewing their watch history in the parent settings
Time: 5 minutes weekly