YouTube now has a way for parents to block kids from watching Shorts

The End of the Doomscroll? YouTube Finally Empowers Parents to Block 'Shorts'

By Senior Investigative Tech Correspondent | Published October 2023

For years, parents have voiced a singular, growing frustration: the "Shorts" trap. Since YouTube introduced its vertical, short-form video feed to compete with TikTok, the platform has become a double-edged sword for families. While it offers a wealth of educational content, the addictive nature of the 60-second loop has left many children caught in an endless cycle of "just one more."

In a landmark update to its digital safety suite, YouTube has finally answered the call. The Google-owned giant is rolling out a feature that allows parents of children using supervised accounts to disable the Shorts feed entirely. This move marks one of the most significant shifts in parental control philosophy since the launch of YouTube Kids.

Breaking the Algorithmic Loop

The core of the issue lies in the algorithm. Unlike traditional YouTube videos, where a user must actively choose a thumbnail to watch, Shorts are served in a passive, high-velocity stream. For a developing brain, this "variable reward" system can be incredibly difficult to disengage from.

Child psychologists have long warned about the impact of rapid-fire content on attention spans. By providing a "kill switch" for Shorts, YouTube is giving parents the ability to return the platform to a more intentional viewing experience. This means kids can still watch their favorite science experiments or Minecraft tutorials without being sucked into the vacuum of the vertical feed.

How the New Feature Works

The new controls are integrated directly into the YouTube Parent Settings. Here is how the mechanism functions for those managing a child's digital footprint:

• Supervised Accounts: The feature is specifically designed for parents who have linked their child's Google Account to their own via Family Link.
• The Toggle: Within the "Content Settings" menu, a new toggle appears labeled "Shorts." When turned off, the Shorts tab at the bottom of the app disappears, and Shorts videos are removed from the home feed.
• Cross-Platform Sync: Disabling the feature on a mobile device will also hide the Shorts shelf on smart TVs and desktops where the child is logged in.

The Regulatory Pressure Cooker

Why now? YouTube’s decision doesn't exist in a vacuum. Tech giants are currently under intense scrutiny from global regulators, including the FTC in the United States and the European Union’s Digital Services Act. There is an increasing demand for "Safety by Design," requiring platforms to prioritize the mental health of minors over engagement metrics.

By offering this tool, YouTube is positioning itself as a more responsible alternative to TikTok, which has faced similar criticisms but lacks a robust "off switch" for its primary feed. It’s a strategic move to maintain trust with parents, who are the ultimate gatekeepers of the platform’s youngest—and most loyal—demographic.

Beyond the Block: A Holistic Approach to Digital Hygiene

While the ability to block Shorts is a massive win for parents, experts suggest it is only one piece of the puzzle. "Technology is a tool, not a babysitter," says digital literacy advocate Sarah Jenkins. "Parents should use these controls as a bridge to have conversations about why we limit certain types of media."

Journalistic analysis suggests that as the line between entertainment and social media continues to blur, features like these will become the standard, not the exception. For now, parents can breathe a sigh of relief knowing they have a little more power over the "scroll."

Pro Tip: Ensure your YouTube app is updated to the latest version on both your device and your child's device to see the new Parental Control options.

Stay tuned to our Tech Safety series for more updates on how to navigate the digital world with your family.