6 Best Safe YouTube Alternatives for Kids: Creating A Secure Online Playground
Through the eyes of a child, the internet is a vast playground—so much entertaining (and sometimes educational) content to consume. However, from a parent’s point of view, it can be a daunting place. From content watched to contacts made, there are a number of dangers to be wary of.
This is where safeguarding comes in. YouTube is probably up there as one of the first providers you think of when streaming content, but not all providers are created equal when it comes to safety. Let’s take a look at some alternatives to YouTube that might not be top of mind, but could give you greater peace of mind.
Contents:
- Why Do Kids Need Safe YouTube Alternatives?
- The Best Kid-Friendly YouTube Alternatives
- Setting Up Parental Controls For a Safer YouTube Experience
- How Can Parents Safeguard Their Kids’ Online Adventures?
- FAQs
Why Do Kids Need Safe YouTube Alternatives?
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There’s no doubt YouTube is a great platform for sharing and streaming videos and live content, but it is not always the best option for kids. The platform is endless, with millions of videos, many of which are not appropriate for children.
YouTube Kids offers a safer alternative, but it is not entirely foolproof.
The Limitations of YouTube Kids
YouTube Kids aims to provide a safer alternative to the main YouTube platform, with content that is more appropriate for children. However, numerous reports, as recent as August 2023, have criticized the platform’s advertising practices for putting children’s safety at risk. This is despite having to pay a $170 million fine in 2019 for violating children’s privacy.
YouTube’s autoplay feature can also lead kids down a rabbit hole of videos, where they may end up watching content that is not suitable for their age. The algorithm is designed to keep users engaged by suggesting related videos, this is yet another opportunity for kids to be exposed to inappropriate content.
It is not just the content that needs to be considered. YouTube also has a comment section, which can be a breeding ground for cyberbullying as well as exposing kids to hate speech, inappropriate language, and other harmful content. YouTube has implemented measures like disabling comments on videos featuring minors and filtering out inappropriate comments, but these measures are not entirely effective.
The Best Kid-Friendly YouTube Alternatives
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There are many alternatives to YouTube that can provide a safer and more controlled environment for kids to explore and enjoy online content. These platforms offer age-appropriate content, parental controls, and other safety features that make them a better option than YouTube.
How to Choose the Right YouTube Alternatives for Your Kids?
The list of YouTube alternatives is long, so it can be challenging to choose the best one for your child. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a YouTube alternative:
- Content: Look for platforms that offer a wide range of age-appropriate content that aligns with your child’s interests and needs.
- Safety Features: Check for parental controls, age ratings, and other safety features that ensure your child’s online safety.
- Advertisements: Look for platforms that offer ad-free subscription options or have strict guidelines for advertisements to ensure that your child is not exposed to inappropriate commercials.
- Accessibility: Before signing up and handing over data needlessly, check if the platform is supported on the devices your child uses.
- Reviews: Read reviews from other parents to get an idea of the platform’s effectiveness and safety.
Hulu
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- Safety: Good
- Variety: Excellent
- Cost: Moderate
Hulu offers a safe and secure platform for kids with a dedicated section for age-appropriate content and parental controls. With a diverse range of shows and movies, kids can enjoy a fun and engaging viewing experience.
While there are some limitations, Hulu’s ad-free subscription option provides a greater level of safety when compared to YouTube and ensures a pleasant and uninterrupted streaming journey for children.
Pros:
- Wide range of content, including popular television shows and movies
- Kids’ section with age-appropriate programming.
- Offers parental controls.
- Ad-free subscription options
Cons:
- There are some limitations to the parental controls e.g. age granularity
- Content may not be available in all countries
- Requires a subscription to access content
PBS Kids
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- Safety: Excellent
- Variety: Fair
- Cost: Free
PBS Kids is a fantastic free option for parents looking for educational and entertaining content for their kids. The platform features popular shows like Sesame Street and Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood. Parents can customize their child’s viewing experience with parental control options, making it a safe and engaging platform for young learners.
Pros:
- Offers age-appropriate educational programming for kids
- Free access to all content
- No registration—activity remains anonymous
Cons:
- Limited content compared to other streaming services
- Not all content is available on demand
Netflix Kids
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- Safety: Good
- Variety: Excellent
- Cost: Moderate
Netflix Kids is a great alternative to YouTube, offering a wide selection of age-appropriate shows and movies. The platform’s dedicated kids’ section and parental controls give parents control over their child’s content. However, it lacks screen time control.
With high-quality content and an ad-free subscription option, Netflix Kids ensures an enjoyable and worry-free streaming experience for children.
Pros:
- High-quality content
- Offers a wide range of age-appropriate content
- Kids’ section with parental controls available
- Ad-free subscription options
- Downloadable content
Cons:
- Content may not be available in all countries
- Requires a subscription to access content
- No screen time control
Amazon Prime Video
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- Safety: Excellent
- Variety: Good
- Cost: Moderate
Amazon Prime Video’s dedicated kids’ section features a vast selection of age-appropriate shows and movies. Its robust parental controls, including age filters and content restrictions, offer granular control. Although it may have limited educational content, it provides an ad-free experience and downloadable content.
With safety as a priority, Amazon Prime Video ensures children can explore and learn without exposure to inappropriate material.
Pros:
- Vast range of age-appropriate content, including original programming
- Dedicated kids’ section with robust parental control
- Ad-free
- Downloadable content
Cons:
- Content may not be available in all countries
- Limited educational content
- Content rotation means favorite programs may periodically be removed
- Requires a subscription to access content
Disney+
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- Safety: Good
- Variety: Fair
- Cost: Moderate
Disney+ offers access to a vast library of family-friendly content, including beloved classics like Frozen and The Lion King. With parental controls, parents can manage content effectively while enjoying an ad-free experience.
Although it may have limited educational content compared to some competitors, Disney+ remains a secure platform for children to indulge in their favorite Disney tales.
Pros:
- Extensive Disney library
- Kids’ section with parental controls available
- Ad free
- Downloadable content
Cons:
- Limited content compared to other streaming services
- Limited educational content
- Content may not be available in all countries
- Subscription needed to access content
Kidoodle.TV
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- Safety: Excellent
- Variety: Fair
- Cost: Low
Kidoodle.TV is a streaming service that provides a safe and engaging platform for kids. With a range of age-appropriate content, including shows like “PAW Patrol” and “Barbie Dreamhouse Adventures,” kids can enjoy a fun and educational viewing experience.
The platform offers parental controls, allowing parents to set restrictions and customize their child’s viewing experience. There is a dedicated section for preschoolers and it is available on a variety of devices, making Kaboodle.TV a convenient option for families.
The platform offers a free trial, allowing parents to test the service before committing to a subscription.
With its focus on safety and engaging content, Kidoodle.TV is a great alternative to YouTube for parents looking for quality content for their kids.
Pros:
- Child safety is prioritized with robust parental controls
- Offers a range of age-appropriate content for kids
- Has a dedicated section for preschoolers
- Interactive learning
Cons:
- Less-recognizable shows
- Limited content compared to other streaming services
- Subscription is needed to access all content
Setting Up Parental Controls For a Safer YouTube Experience
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Sometimes it only takes a screaming child and a desperate situation to find yourself scrambling to the YouTube app to recalibrate. For this reason, it’s best to have parental controls set up just in case, to ensure your child’s safety.
YouTube offers a range of parental controls, including restricted mode, which filters out inappropriate content and comments. You can also create a separate account for your child, where you can monitor their viewing history and restrict access to specific channels or videos.
Read our article, If you would like to know more about blocking channels and videos on YouTube.
How Can Parents Safeguard Their Kids’ Online Adventures?
Whilst there are some great YouTube alternatives with robust parental controls, there are additional steps parents can take to ensure their child’s online safety. Here they are:
- Educate Your Child: Talk to your child about the importance of online safety and the potential risks of sharing personal information online. Try to keep the message simple and easy to understand without scaring them.
- Monitor Online Activity: Keep an eye on your child’s online activity, including their search history, social media accounts, and messaging apps.
- Use Parental Control Apps: although some of the alternatives listed have great parental controls, most have limitations in one way or another. Apps like Kids360 are a great addition to cover all bases. They allow you to monitor your child’s online activity, with features including:
Time Management: With these apps, you can set screen time limits, ensuring your child doesn’t spend excessive hours in front of the screen.
Monitoring and Alerts: Receive real-time alerts and reports on your child’s online activities, giving you insights into their viewing habits.
App Blocker: Some parental control apps allow you to block specific apps or sites, adding an extra layer of control over what your child can use. - Set Ground Rules: Establish clear rules for your child’s online activity, including time limits, appropriate content, and safe online behavior.
- Stay Involved: Stay involved in your child’s online activity, and encourage them to come to you if they encounter any problems or feel uncomfortable with any content.
Kids360 app
Kids360 is a safety app that provides parents with the flexibility to set custom time limits or block access to specific apps. With Kids360, parents can ensure a safe streaming experience! Download it right now and try it by yourself.
Navigating the World of Kid-Friendly Streaming: Ensuring Safety and Enjoyment
YouTube may not always be the safest platform for children, but there are plenty of other options that offer a safe and controlled environment. Alternatively, parents can use third-party apps like Kids360, and follow online safety tips to ensure their child’s safety and bridge the gaps where some providers may be lacking. By taking these steps, parents can provide a safe and enjoyable online experience for their children.
It is worth keeping in mind that online safety is an ongoing process. As children grow and develop, their online habits and interests will change, and parents must adapt accordingly. It’s crucial to keep an open dialogue with your child about their online activity and to stay informed about the latest online safety trends and risks.
FAQs
Can I set up parental controls on YouTube?
Yes, YouTube offers parental controls, including restricted mode, which filters out inappropriate content and comments.
Does YouTube have a kid’s profile?
Parents can create unique profiles for every child in their family with YouTube Kids. These profiles are customized with specific viewing preferences and recommendations, providing each child with a tailored experience while using the YouTube Kids app.
Are YouTube alternatives free?
Some YouTube alternatives like PBS Kids are free, while others like Hulu and Netflix Kids require a subscription.
Is Dailymotion a suitable alternative for kids?
It is not recommended for children under the age of 13. While Dailymotion is similar to YouTube in that it offers a wide range range of content, some of which is suitable for kids. It is arguably even less safe than YouTube due to the lack of parental controls.
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