YouTube is the video sharing website on the world wide web. It’s such a huge network that when you search Google for any given topic you’re sure to find videos in the results. The great thing about YouTube is that anyone can upload content to the platform. The bad thing about YouTube when it comes to kids is that anyone can upload content to YouTube.
Parents are often left trying to sort a way to help their kids watch videos on YouTube whether it’s those crazy popular unboxing videos or Minecraft tutorials without their kids stumbling on content that’s full of adult content or worse gratuitous cursing.
Finally, finally! Google has launched a new app for kids over 5 called YouTube Kids. The app is available now and it’s free on Google Play and Apple’s App Store.
YouTube Kids Review
We downloaded the app today and spent some time looking through the features and videos. Parents, this is exactly what you’ve been looking for-a video player that only features kid-friendly YouTube channels. Kids, you’ll like it, too-I promise.
Kid-Friendly Menu
It has a menu that includes Shows, Music, Learning, and Explore. Recommended channels are under each header and include some your kids probably already watch like the LEGO channel, Stampylongnose, PBS Kids, TED Ed, storybots, and shows like Sesame Street and Peppa Pig.
Kid-Friendly Graphics and Audio
It features a fun intro graphic when you open the app, music that plays while the app is open, and fun noises when you scroll or switch channels.
Search
You’ll also find a search magnifying glass where you can search for content they already love.
Our Initial Thoughts
While I was skeptical that my 9 and 10-year-old would like the interface they surprised me by liking it. More so they like that I don’t have to be over their shoulders while they watch a new channel to make sure they aren’t hearing an f bomb every two seconds. I feel comfortable with hem exploring in the next room without worrying about them stumbling on content that is adult. I’m all for adult content-just not for young kids.
In addition to the easy to use interface there is an area for grownups only that allows you to turn on and off the sound effects, search, and even set up a timer. Unfortunately, this is easily accessed with a passcode on the screen. I’m hoping in future updates they will allow parents to sign in and choose a permanent passcode so that setting a timer and other settings can’t be adjusted by small people.
I’ll be back to update this post next week with further thoughts.
Centsible Rating
- Cost: ¢¢¢¢¢
- Quality: ¢¢¢¢¢
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Overall: ¢¢¢¢¢
You can read the official statement here and click over to Google Play or the App Store to get the app now. For more apps I’ve shared in our tech section.
Kelly
All images are from the YouTube Kids app.
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