How to Block Inappropriate Content on YouTube

Introduction

Kids love watching content on YouTube, and YouTube is convenient for parents because it’s available on almost every device. The downside is that it’s very easy for kids to go from watching appropriate and safe content, to mature content loaded with foul language and inappropriate themes. Thankfully, YouTube makes it easy to turn on a Restricted Mode in the YouTube app across all platforms that, while not perfect, is a good first step to blocking mature and inappropriate content so your child doesn’t see it. The only caveat is that turning on YouTube Restricted Mode isn’t a global change across your account, and you’ll need to do this on all devices where your kids access YouTube. In this video I’ll show you how to turn on YouTube Restricted Mode in the YouTube app for iPad, iPhone, Android devices, Roku, and on the YouTube website.

Some of the images associated with the steps are included inline below. All images associated with these steps can be seen in the embedded YouTube video. Also, please note that you’re not able to leave a comment directly on this article. If you have a question or feedback, please leave it on the YouTube video.

Steps to Block Inappropriate Content on YouTube on iPad

1. Open the YouTube app on your iPad and then tap your profile icon along the top of the screen.
2. Scroll down this menu, and then tap “Settings.”

3. Find Restricted Mode in the menu, and then tap the toggle next to Restricted Mode to turn it on. Going forward potentially mature videos won’t be visible in the YouTube app on this device.

Steps to Block Inappropriate Content on YouTube on iPhone

1. Open the YouTube app on your iPhone and then tap your profile icon along the top of the screen.
2. Scroll down this menu, and then tap “Settings.”

3. Tap “General” in this menu.

4. Tap the toggle next to “Restricted Mode” to turn it on. Going forward potentially mature videos won’t be visible in the YouTube app on this device.

Steps to Block Inappropriate Content on YouTube on Android

1. Open the YouTube app on your Android device and then tap your profile icon along the top of the screen.
2. Scroll down this menu and then tap “Settings.”

3. Make sure “General” is selected in the menu on the left side of the screen, and then scroll down the right side of the screen until you see Restricted Mode.
4. Tap the toggle next to “Restricted Mode” to turn it on. Going forward potentially mature videos won’t be visible in the YouTube app on this device.

Steps to Block Inappropriate Content on YouTube on Roku

1. Open the YouTube app on your Roku device, and then move the selector over to an item in the menu on the left side of the screen to expand it.
2. Select “Settings” in the menu on the left side of the screen. The Settings menu is shown on the right side of the screen.

3. Select “Restricted Mode” in the Settings menu. You’ll see options for Restricted Mode on the right side of the screen.

4. Highlight “On” and then click “OK” on your Roku remote to place the check mark next to On. Going forward potentially mature videos won’t be visible in the YouTube app on this device.

Steps to Block Inappropriate Content on YouTube on YouTube Website

1. Open a web browser and navigate to YouTube.com, and then click your profile icon along the top of the screen.
2. Click “Restricted Mode” at the bottom of the menu. The menu will shrink to a small Restricted Mode window.

3. Tap the toggle next to “Activate Restricted Mode” to turn it on. Going forward potentially mature videos won’t be visible in the YouTube app on this device.

Reasons to Block Inappropriate Content on YouTube

1. Protecting Children

Blocking inappropriate content on YouTube is crucial for protecting children. As a parent or guardian, it is your responsibility to ensure that your child does not access age-inappropriate material that may contain violence, sexual content, or other harmful material. By using parental controls to block inappropriate content on YouTube, you can ensure that your child only has access to videos that are safe and age-appropriate. It is important to be aware of the potential risks that your child may face when browsing YouTube, and to take the necessary steps to protect them from harmful content.

2. Maintaining Safe Online Environment

Blocking inappropriate content on YouTube is an essential step towards creating a safe online environment. YouTube is a platform that can be accessed by anyone, and it is important to prevent exposure to hate speech, cyberbullying, or other harmful content. By blocking inappropriate content, you can create a safer and more positive online experience for yourself and others.

3. Maintaining Personal Values

Some individuals may find certain types of content on YouTube to be incompatible with their personal values and beliefs. Blocking inappropriate content on YouTube can be an important step towards maintaining personal values and beliefs, and can help to ensure that you are not exposed to content that goes against your moral code.

4. Avoid Triggering or Upsetting Content

For individuals who have experienced trauma or who are sensitive to certain types of content, blocking inappropriate content on YouTube is an important way to avoid triggering or upsetting videos. By using blocking features to avoid specific types of content, individuals can protect their mental health and wellbeing.

5. Maintaining Mental Health

Blocking inappropriate content on YouTube is an essential part of maintaining good mental health, particularly for individuals who may be prone to anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. By blocking harmful or triggering content, individuals can help to prevent negative mental health effects that can be caused by exposure to inappropriate material. This can help to create a more positive and uplifting online experience, which can benefit mental health and overall wellbeing.