How to Start a YouTube Channel for Kids

So, your kid wants to be a YouTuber? That's cool! Lots of kids love watching videos, and some want to make their own. Here's how you can help them get started the right way.

How to Start a YouTube Channel for Kids

Why YouTube for Kids?

Why even consider it? Well, there are some good reasons. Think about it:

• Creative Fun: They can tell stories, act, draw... whatever they want!
• Learn Stuff: Making videos teaches them how to write, film, and talk to people.
• Get Smarter: They can even teach other kids cool things!
• Feel Good: Getting positive feedback can really help their confidence.
• Maybe Make Money? This isn't the main goal, but it could happen down the road.

But, safety first! There are risks online, like mean comments or people trying to get personal information. You'll need to be involved to keep things safe.

Let's Get Started: Step-by-Step

1. Plan It Out!

Don't just jump in. Think about what the channel will be about. What kind of videos will they make? Set some rules, too.

a. What's the Focus?

What does your child love? Here are some ideas for kid-friendly YouTube content:

• Toy Time: Show off and talk about their favorite toys.
• Game On: Play video games and comment (only games that are okay for their age!).
• Crafty Kids: Make simple crafts and art.
• Learn With Me: Teach simple things or share interesting facts.
• Story Time: Read books out loud or make up their own stories.
• Science Fun: Do safe science experiments.
• Cooking Up Fun: Bake cookies or make simple snacks (with you helping, of course!).
• Music and Moves: Sing, play music, or dance!
• Daily Life: Show little bits of their day (but be super careful about privacy!).

Pick something they enjoy! This makes it way more fun and easier to keep doing.

b. Video Ideas, Ready to Go!

Make a list of video ideas. Just a quick note about each one. This helps when they don't know what to film next.

c. Rules of the Game

Talk about these things before you start:

• How Much Time? How many hours a week for videos?
• Your Role: Will you film? Edit? Read comments?
• What's Okay to Show? What's not okay to show in videos?
• Privacy, Please: What can they share online? What can't they share?
• Dealing with Haters: What to do if someone says something mean.

It's okay if a video doesn't get a million views. The most important thing is to have fun and learn something!

2. Get the Channel Ready: YouTube for Families

a. Google Account Time

Kids under 13 can't make their own Google accounts, says YouTube. You'll need to make one for them and use Family Link to keep an eye on things.

b. Make the Channel!

With that Google account, go to YouTube and click "Create a channel." Just follow the steps.

c. Make It Look Good!

Make the channel match your child's personality. Think about these things:

• Cool Name: Make it easy to remember.
• Awesome Art: A banner image that shows what the channel is about.
• Easy-to-See Icon: A profile picture that people will remember.
• What's It All About?: A short description of the channel.

3. Lights, Camera, Action!

a. Gear You Need

You don't need a fancy camera! A smartphone or tablet is just fine. For editing, try iMovie (if you have an iPhone) or DaVinci Resolve (works on lots of computers).

b. Filming Tricks

Here are some simple tips:

• Let There Be Light: Use natural light if you can.
• Quiet on Set: Film in a quiet place.
• Make It Look Good: Think about how the picture looks.
• Steady Now: Use a tripod so the video isn't shaky.

c. Editing Magic

Editing is important! Use the software to:

• Cut the Fluff: Get rid of boring parts.
• Smooth Moves: Add transitions between scenes.
• Sound Effects: Add music and fun sounds.
• Words on Screen: Add text and pictures.
• Perfect Volume: Make sure the sound is just right.

d. Keep 'Em Watching!

Want people to keep watching? Here's how:

• Short and Sweet: Kids don't have long attention spans.
• Be Excited!: Show that you're having fun!
• Talk to People: Ask questions and answer comments.
• Make 'Em Laugh: Add jokes and be funny.
• Give Something Good: Teach something, entertain, or inspire!

4. YouTube Safety for Kids: #1 Priority!

This is super important. Always keep an eye on what your child is doing online.

a. You're in Control

Use YouTube's tools to block bad stuff. Set age limits, turn on "restricted mode," and see what they're watching.

b. Keep It Private!

Don't share their full name, address, or school in videos. Teach them not to tell strangers online anything personal.

c. Read the Comments!

Read the comments on their videos. Block mean people or use YouTube's tools to help.

d. Report Bad Stuff!

Teach your child how to report videos or comments that make them feel bad.

e. Know the Signs!

Talk about cyberbullying and what to do. Tell them to block bullies and talk to you or another trusted adult.

5. Get the Word Out!

Time to get people to watch! Focus on getting a few real fans, not just a ton of random views.

a. Help People Find You

Use words that people will search for in the titles, descriptions, and tags of your videos.

b. Share on Social Media

Post the videos on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram (with your permission and help!).

c. Team Up!

Work with other kid YouTubers. Make sure they're safe and make good videos, too.

d. Talk to Your Fans!

Answer comments and questions. Be friendly! This will make people want to come back.

6. The Legal Stuff

It's important to know the rules.

a. COPPA

There's a law called COPPA that protects kids online. If your channel is for kids, you need to follow COPPA. That means getting your permission before collecting information from them.

b. YouTube's Rules

Read YouTube's rules. They say what you can and can't do on the site.

7. Check It Out!

Keep watching your child's channel. See how it's doing.

• What's Popular? Which videos are getting the most views?
• Are People Subscribing? Are you getting more fans?
• Are People Talking? How many likes and comments are you getting?
• What Do People Think? What are people saying about your videos?

Use this information to make better videos. Be ready to change your plan if you need to.

In Conclusion: A Rewarding Journey for YouTube for Families

Starting a YouTube channel can be a great thing for you and your child. They can be creative, learn new skills, and express themselves. Just remember to be safe, be involved, and have fun! Focus on making kid-friendly YouTube content and creating a good online place for your child and their viewers. Enjoy this YouTube for families experience!