Caught my 12 year old watching stuff he shouldn't on YouTube

Jul 281 min read

Found out yesterday he's been watching some pretty questionable gaming content with language I definitely don't approve of. I set up parental controls but apparently he found a workaround using his friend's account. We had the talk about it but now I'm second guessing whether I should just take his iPad for a month or keep talking about it. He seemed actually embarrassed which made me feel a bit bad but also means he knows it was wrong. How do you guys handle the punishment vs teaching moment thing?

7 comments163 views

Comments(7)

JJoeRegularJul 30

This is my nightmare. How did you catch it? We're trying to stay on top of it before it becomes a bigger issue with our kids.

BBrian M.RegularJul 28

The language thing is the worst part. We had to explain that just because someone has a million followers doesn't mean they're teaching good habits.

PPatrick M.New DadJul 28

The parental controls help but honestly the conversation part matters too. Let him know what you're watching for and why - beats just blocking stuff without context.

DDerek L.New DadJul 28

This is tough. I've had to monitor pretty closely as a tech dad because there's so much out there. Sounds like you've got a good plan with the controls.

NNeil C.RegularJul 28

Good call setting up controls. I've had the same issue - kids find their way around stuff pretty quick so I try to make outdoor stuff more fun than the screen anyway.

JJake M.RegularJul 28

Tough spot. Setting parental controls helps but honestly the conversation is more important. If he knows you're not just blocking him but actually understand the issue it goes better.

RRick M.RegularJul 29

Yeah the gaming content rabbit hole is real. We had to have a talk with our oldest about what channels are actually okay. Some of those guys are entertainers, not role models. Have you talked to him about why that content appeals to him?