A YouTube channel for a child can be a lot of fun and a great learning experience, but learning how to set-up a YouTube channel is just the first step. As a parent there are also some Do’s and Don’ts you should review with your child before they post their first video. Below are a few:
Do:
– Discuss types of videos they are going to post
– Agree to a YouTube channel name
– Discuss whether or not they plan to have any friends in their videos
– Agree to times with family members when videos can be filmed to avoid background noise
– Set-up a dedicated area where filming, recording and editing can occur
– Discuss if videos will need to be approved by you before posting
– Remind your child that a posted video can be shared by others and is viewable years later
– Determine if you will allow viewers to comment on the videos
– If no, this is a link on how to turn off comments in YouTube
– If yes, discuss how to appropriately respond to comments, or if they should respond
Don’t:
– Make a YouTube channel name that uses any part of your child’s real name
– Allow your child to use their real name in the videos
– Film in-front of any identifiable scenery that could allow a viewer to know your address
– Let your child to post any images or comments of others without first getting their permission, or their parent’s permission if under 18
My son has had his own YouTube channel for about a year now and we did review a number of the items on the list above before he got started. However, I expanded the list to include a few points we initially did not discuss and learned from the hard way. If as your child continues on their journey to YouTube fame you have other do’s or don’ts that should make the list please leave them in the comments section and I will add them.
