How to set up YouTube parental controls with WhitelistVideo
WhitelistVideo is a parental control app for YouTube that blocks all videos by default and lets you approve (whitelist) the specific channels your child can watch. Only videos from approved channels will play — everything else stays blocked. Works on computers, phones, tablets, and TVs.
How does WhitelistVideo work?
- You approve channels — Pick YouTube channels you trust
- Choose a viewing mode — Full YouTube with filtering (older kids) or Curated Feed only (younger kids)
- Only safe videos play — Unapproved content is blocked or never shown
How long does WhitelistVideo setup take?
Setup takes about 5 minutes. Start the guided onboarding at whitelist.video/get-started (opens in a new tab):
The onboarding wizard walks you through creating your child's profile — including their name, grade, avatar, interests, and protection level — before account creation. Device setup happens after you sign up.
What can I do after setting up WhitelistVideo?
Once protection is active, you can:
- Approve channels — Add trusted YouTube channels to your approved list
- Add playlists — Whitelist entire YouTube playlists (Premium: up to 10)
- Choose a viewing mode — Full YouTube with filtering or Curated Feed only
- Enable Auto-pilot screening — Let AI check individual videos automatically (Premium)
- Adjust YouTube controls — Hide comments, Shorts, and more (Basic+)
- View Insights — See what your child watches, search queries, protection score, and weekly AI report
- Manage from chat — Approve channels, change settings, and check status from WhatsApp or Telegram
How do I prevent my child from bypassing WhitelistVideo?
Protection varies by platform:
Scroll horizontally to see all columns.
| Platform | Bypass prevention |
|---|---|
| Windows / Mac | Keep the child on a Standard account and install the Chrome/Edge protection. Use Family Safety or Screen Time for alternative browser apps |
| iPhone / iPad | Uninstall the regular YouTube app, approve Screen Time access, and keep YouTube domains permitted. Restrict app deletion and installation; keep Safari/Chrome and restrict other browsers |
| Android phone / tablet | Use Family Link where supported to block the regular YouTube app, restrict YouTube sites in Chrome, and control alternative browser apps |
| Android TV | Use the WhitelistVideo TV app and separately disable or restrict the regular YouTube app on the TV |
| Chromebook | Personal devices need extension monitoring plus Family Link where supported; managed enrollment is required for force-installed, tamper-resistant protection |
Younger children (ages 3-8)? Use Curated Feed mode on mobile or TV — your child only sees channels you've approved in a clean grid. No search, no browsing, no surprises.
Older children (ages 8-15)? Use Full YouTube with AI Auto-pilot filtering on Chrome or mobile — they can explore with your safety net in place.
Need help with WhitelistVideo?
- Troubleshooting guide — Solve common problems
- Frequently asked questions — Answers to common questions
- Chat with our bot — Get instant help on WhatsApp or Telegram