How to Block YouTube on Kids' Tablets

To effectively manage your child's access to YouTube on their tablet, "blocking" can refer to either restricting the content available within the app or completely preventing access to the app or website. While YouTube offers a built-in feature to filter mature content, additional methods are necessary for a complete block.

Managing screen time and content for children on tablets is a common concern for parents. Blocking YouTube can range from filtering out inappropriate content to preventing access to the application entirely.

1. Using YouTube's Built-in Restricted Mode (Content Filtering)

YouTube's Restricted Mode is a setting within the app designed to screen out potentially mature content. While it doesn't block the app itself, it significantly limits what your child can view, making the platform safer for younger users. It acts as a content filter based on community flags and age restrictions.

Steps to Enable Restricted Mode:

To turn on this feature on your child's tablet:

1. Open the YouTube app on the device.
2. Tap your profile picture (or initial) in the top right corner of the screen.
3. Select Settings from the menu that appears.
4. Go to General.
5. Turn on Restricted Mode (toggle the switch to the 'on' position).

Note: Restricted Mode is not foolproof and may not catch all inappropriate content. It also does not prevent your child from accessing the app or searching for content, only filters what is displayed.

2. Comprehensive Ways to Block YouTube Access

For a more robust "block" that prevents access to the YouTube app or website, consider these methods:

a. Tablet's Built-in Parental Controls

Modern tablets, whether Android or Apple, come with robust parental control features that allow you to manage app access, screen time, and content.

• For Android Tablets (Google Family Link):
  • Set up a Google Family Link account for your child.
  • From your parent device, you can approve or block apps, set screen time limits, and even lock the device.
  • Specifically, you can disable or block the YouTube app from your child's profile.
• For Apple iPads (Screen Time):
  • Go to Settings > Screen Time.
  • Set up Screen Time for your child's device (if not already done).
  • Under Content & Privacy Restrictions, you can disable apps (including YouTube) or set "App Limits" to restrict the time spent on the app.

b. Third-Party Parental Control Apps

Numerous dedicated parental control applications offer advanced features for managing your child's digital world, often across multiple devices. These apps typically allow you to:

• Block specific applications like YouTube.
• Set schedules for app usage.
• Monitor activity and receive alerts.
• Filter web content.

Popular examples include Qustodio, Bark, Net Nanny, and OurPact. These usually require installation on both your and your child's devices.

c. Router-Level Blocking (Network Filtering)

For a household-wide solution, you can block the YouTube domain directly through your home Wi-Fi router's settings. This method prevents all devices connected to your network from accessing YouTube.

• How it works: Access your router's administration page (usually via a web browser using its IP address, like 192.168.1.1). Look for "Parental Controls," "Website Filtering," or "Access Control" settings and add youtube.com (and potentially m.youtube.com, youtu.be) to the blocked list.
• Pros: Blocks YouTube on all devices connected to your Wi-Fi, without needing to configure each device individually.
• Cons: Children can bypass this by using mobile data or another Wi-Fi network. It also requires some technical comfort with router settings.

d. Uninstalling the YouTube App

The simplest but least effective method is to simply uninstall the YouTube app from the tablet. However, children can easily reinstall it if they have access to the app store and know the device's password. Combine this with app store restrictions if choosing this method.

Choosing the Right Method for Your Family

The best approach often involves a combination of methods, tailored to your child's age, tech savviness, and your family's specific needs.

By implementing one or a combination of these strategies, you can effectively manage and block YouTube content or access on your child's tablet, creating a safer digital environment.