Online video platforms may display non-child-friendly content such as pornography, violent scenes, or dangerous scenes, so parents should make some settings to determine what content the child is watching.
Since these platforms have no absolute protection, the child must be made aware of how to properly use them.
The YouTube platform, for example, offers a so-called restricted mode, and parents can activate this mode via the menu on the start page. The child should learn not to disclose private data and be careful when uploading files on the Internet.
"Filters"
Other video platforms rely on filters. For example, the Dailymotion website enables the so-called family filter to be activated at the bottom of the page.
In addition to the settings in the video platforms themselves, you can take advantage of the configurations or programs on the peripheral device.
For mobile devices, there are sometimes elements of parental control of children's phones, and explained German technology expert Birgit Kimmel that these elements work differently on Google Android and Apple "iOS".
Experts argue that there is no full protection for children on online video platforms, and that the family role is therefore of utmost importance in educating children without instilling fear of the virtual world within them. It is also useful to agree with the child on the rules of use of these platforms and the content they can view at any time and for any period.
Youtube Kids
Unfortunately, this service is not currently available in the Arab region although it offers important options for child protection, whether through the browser or through the application of YouTube Kids on smartphones.
The service includes videos dedicated to children, and parents can restrict usage to certain age-appropriate content and set a watch time limit.
German technology expert Erin Schulz advises not to leave children on any video platform alone; even YouTube Kids shows content that is sometimes annoying.