Videos have a great impact on young minds, shaping their perceptions, behaviours, and self-esteem. In this direction, Google has launched several features. Its video streaming division YouTube has consistently prioritised the well-being of its younger audience by implementing various safety measures and features. From tailored content filters on YouTube Kids to restrictions on videos that promote harmful behaviours, the platform ensures that filtered content reach its viewers.
The video giant has now launched a new feature called Family Center, designed to give parents a more comprehensive view of their teenagers’ activities on the platform. The feature will begin rolling out globally this week, according to YouTube’s blog post.
These measures were developed with input from YouTube’s Youth and Families Advisory Committee. The Committee has advised YouTube on how online content can affect teens’ well-being, highlighting that repeated exposure to idealised standards can negatively impact their self-esteem.
Family Center allows parents to link their YouTube accounts with those of their teens, providing them with insights into their children’s channel activities. This includes information on the number of uploads, subscriptions, and comments on their channels. Additionally, parents will receive email notifications whenever their teens upload new videos or initiate livestreams.
The new feature aims to help parents stay informed and offer guidance on responsible content creation. YouTube also highlighted that its youth-focused products, such as YouTube Kids, engage over 100 million active viewers each month. Last November, the platform introduced enhanced safeguards for teens, such as limiting recommendations of videos that focus on violence or aggression.
