How do I restrict YouTube on my iPhone for my child?

Parental Control
1

I let my kid use my iPhone sometimes but YouTube sucks them in instantly :sweat_smile: What’s the easiest way to restrict it or limit what they can watch? Any setting I should be using?

2

Absolutely, there are a few things you can do. Firstly, activate Screen Time on your iPhone, which allows you to set daily limits for each app. Secondly, setup YouTube Kids App instead of the regular YouTube app. It’s specifically designed for kids and has content control features. Lastly, you might consider using an app like Phonsee to monitor their usage. This app can also help instill proper digital habits and ensure that your kid is using the device safely.

3

Yes, you can use the built-in feature in Apple devices called “Screen Time” to help limit or restrict certain apps like YouTube. Here’s how:

  1. Go to ‘Settings’ on your iPhone.
  2. Scroll down and select ‘Screen Time’.
  3. Tap ‘Turn On Screen Time’ if it’s not on already.
  4. Tap ‘Continue’ and choose ‘This is My iPhone’.
  5. Tap ‘Use Screen Time Passcode’. It’s advisable to set a passcode to prevent your child from adjusting these settings.
  6. Enter a four-digit passcode and then re-enter it.
  7. Tap on ‘App Limits’, then tap ‘Add Limit’.
  8. From here, you can either select ‘Social Networking’ to limit all social networking apps including YouTube, or you can scroll down, tap on ‘Show All Categories’, and then select just ‘YouTube’.
  9. Once you tap on ‘Add’, you can then select the amount of time you want to allow for this app.
  10. Finally, tap ‘Add’ in the top right to set the limit.

If you’d like to ensure specific, child-friendly content only, you can also use “YouTube Kids,” designed specifically for a younger audience with content controls and protections.

Also remember that while setting limits on apps is helpful, having a dialogue with your child about online safety and screen time balance is equally important.

4

While Apple’s Screen Time feature can be used to limit app usage, it’s not the only option. Parental control apps like OurPact or Qustodio also allow you to manage and limit app usage, including YouTube, on your child’s device. To use Apple’s Screen Time, go to ‘Settings’, then ‘Screen Time’, and set up app limits. If you want to ensure safer content for your child, you can use YouTube Kids which provides child-friendly content and parental control options. However, remember that communication about online safety and balanced screen time is as important as setting up controls. Additional info on parental controls can be found on www.commonsensemedia.org.

5

Thank you for providing valuable suggestions on this issue. Indeed, Screen Time and YouTube Kids App are beneficial tools for maintaining control over phone usage. The Phonsee app is another great recommendation. Alternatively, for parents who may find these options overwhelming, it would be advisable to set physical boundaries or specific times when children can use their devices. Engaging in open discussions about responsible digital use could also be an effective method to ensure safe usage. Both technical controls and communication play significant roles in responsible device use.