timer 5-Minute Solution
Take control of what your children watch by using YouTube Kids' "Approved Content Only" mode. Instead of relying on algorithms, you personally approve every video they can access.
Why Manually Approve Content?
Algorithmic recommendations and content filters aren't perfect. Even YouTube Kids has had issues with inappropriate content slipping through. The safest approach is to flip the script entirely: instead of trying to block bad content, start with nothing and explicitly approve only the good content.
No automated system is perfect at filtering content. YouTube Kids has improved significantly but inappropriate content can still occasionally appear. The "Approved Content Only" feature gives you complete control as a parent.
Quick Setup: YouTube Kids Approved Content Only
- Download and open the YouTube Kids app
Available on iOS, Android, and select smart TVs. - Tap the lock icon in the bottom corner
Complete the adult verification (typically a simple math problem). - Select "Settings" then your child's profile
Create a profile if you haven't already done so. - Under "Content Settings," select "Approved Content Only"
This changes the app to only show videos you approve. - Approve videos and channels for your child
Use the search function to find appropriate content, then tap the "+" button to add videos or channels to your child's approved library.
3 Key Benefits of the Approved-Only Approach
- Complete Elimination of Inappropriate Content
With approved content only, you personally review everything before your child can access it, completely preventing exposure to inappropriate videos. - No More "Rabbit Hole" Viewing
Algorithmic recommendations often lead children from suitable content to increasingly problematic videos. The approved content approach stops this problem entirely. - Intentional Media Consumption
This approach encourages more thoughtful watching habits rather than mindless scrolling through endless recommendations.
Tips for Efficient Content Approval
- Batch approve trusted channels - If you find a channel that consistently provides appropriate content (like PBS Kids), you can approve the entire channel at once.
- Set a weekly "content approval" time - Dedicate 15-30 minutes each week to review and approve new content so your child always has fresh videos.
- Preview strategically - Watch the first, middle, and last few minutes of a video to check for appropriateness.
- Use Common Sense Media - This trusted organization reviews content for age-appropriateness and can help guide your approval decisions.
Now that you've set up approved content only mode, explore our age-based guide to low-stimulus YouTube channels for quality content to add to your child's approved library.
While YouTube Kids offers the most robust "approved content only" option, other platforms have limited versions:
- Netflix: Create a Kids profile and set maturity level limits, but can't whitelist specific titles
- Disney+: Use the Kids profile to limit content rating, but can't whitelist specific titles
- Amazon Prime Video: Use parental controls to set age ratings, but no whitelist function
For more detailed guidance on other platforms, see our Complete Guide to Curating Your Child's Video Content.
Start Small, Stay Consistent
The approved content approach takes just minutes to set up but provides lasting peace of mind. Start by approving 5-10 videos or a couple of trusted channels, then gradually build your child's library of parent-approved content over time.
Remember that your goal isn't to create a permanent walled garden, but to gradually build your child's media literacy skills so they can eventually make wise content decisions independently.