How to block YouTube Kids’ ads?

YouTube Kids is a video-sharing platform designed for children, offering a curated selection of family-friendly content. While it aims to provide a safe viewing experience, it includes ads to support its operations. YouTube Kids’ advertising policies are designed to ensure ads shown are appropriate for children, following strict guidelines on content and length.

Ads on YouTube Kids can appear in various formats, including short video ads that play before or during content, and display ads that appear at the bottom of the screen. Some parents choose to block these ads due to concerns about excessive commercial exposure to their children or the potential for inappropriate content to slip through.

This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of how to block ads on YouTube Kids, covering various methods and techniques to ensure a safer, more controlled viewing experience for your children.

Blocking Ads Through YouTube Kids Settings

You can’t completely block ads on YouTube Kids, but you can limit them. Here’s how to access and adjust the settings within the app:

Step 1: Open the YouTube Kids app.

Step 2: Tap your profile icon (usually a circle with your child’s picture or a generic icon) located in the top right corner.

Step 3: Select “Settings.”

Step 4: Find and tap “Content Settings.”

Step 5: Look for “Allow ads.” If you see a toggle switch next to this option, toggle it off. This should reduce, but not completely eliminate, ads.

Limitations: Even with “Allow ads” turned off, some ads might still show up. YouTube Kids might show promotional content that is deemed appropriate for children, which can resemble ads. This method mainly affects standard ads.

Note: Screenshots and illustrations can vary based on your app version and device. The location of settings may change over time; so these instructions might not perfectly match future app updates.

Using Parental Controls on Your Device

You can use your device’s built-in parental controls to limit or block ads on YouTube Kids. These controls offer varying levels of restrictions, affecting not just ads, but also content access.

The exact steps vary depending on your device’s operating system. Below are examples for Android and iOS, but the general principles are similar. Always check your device’s manual for the most precise instructions.

Note: Blocking ads completely might not be possible solely through device parental controls. YouTube Kids’ ad policies and features may override some settings. For more comprehensive ad and content control, consider using a dedicated parental control app such as mSpy.

ThirdParty Apps and Software for Ad Blocking

You can use third-party apps to block ads on YouTube Kids. These apps often have features beyond ad blocking, like time limits and content filtering. However, using these apps means they’ll have access to your device’s data, so it’s important to choose reputable apps with strong privacy policies.

Remember to carefully review the permissions requested by any app before installation and only download apps from official app stores (like Google Play or Apple App Store).

Disclaimer: App availability, features, and pricing are subject to change. Always review an app’s current features, privacy policy, and terms of service before installation and use.

Managing YouTube Kids Subscriptions and Content

Subscribing to YouTube Premium removes ads from YouTube Kids, offering an uninterrupted viewing experience for your children. Let’s weigh the pros and cons:

Cost-effectiveness: YouTube Premium’s cost must be weighed against its benefits. If your family frequently uses YouTube Kids and values ad-free viewing, it might be cost-effective. However, if your use is limited, free alternatives might be preferable.

Free Alternatives: There are free ad-blocking methods, though they may not be as reliable or effective as a paid subscription. These methods often involve setting up parental controls and carefully managing the content watched.

Curating Content to Minimize Ads: Even without a paid subscription or ad-blocker, you can reduce ad exposure by:

• Creating a supervised account: This allows you to control what your child can watch and access within the app.
• Using the search function cautiously: Search for specific videos rather than general keywords. This reduces the chance of ads appearing before suggested videos.
• Pre-selecting content: Create a playlist of approved videos to avoid the algorithm suggesting other videos that may contain ads.
• Monitoring viewing habits: Regularly review your child’s viewing history to ensure they aren’t inadvertently watching videos with ads.

Ultimately, the best approach depends on your family’s needs and budget. Carefully consider the pros and cons of a paid subscription versus free methods and content curation to make an informed choice.

This guide explored several ways to limit or remove ads from YouTube Kids. Each method offers unique advantages, so choosing the right one depends on your tech skills and preferences.

Using YouTube Kids’ built-in settings: This is the simplest method. It allows for quick and easy ad control without needing additional apps or software. Benefit: Easy and readily available.

Utilizing a parental control app: Apps like mSpy offer more comprehensive control over your child’s screen time and online activities beyond just ad blocking. Benefit: Provides enhanced security and broader parental control.

Employing your device’s parental controls: Most devices have built-in parental controls that may include ad blocking functionalities or YouTube Kids restrictions. Benefit: Inherent in many devices and often free.

Blocking ads through your internet router or network: This method offers the most comprehensive ad-blocking solution across all devices. Benefit: Effective for all devices connected to the network.

Remember, while these methods can greatly reduce or eliminate ads, responsible digital parenting remains essential. Regularly monitor your child’s YouTube Kids activity, communicate openly, and adjust your approach as needed. The best method is the one that best suits your family’s tech comfort level and parental control philosophy.