Rant: YouTube is raising my kid, not me | DadHQ

Rant: YouTube is raising my kid, not me

3w ago1 min read

I know, I know, I'm the parent and I need to take responsibility. But after a 10 hour day at work and dealing with two kids I sometimes just... let them watch YouTube for an hour while I make dinner or help with homework. Then my 8yo is asking to buy stupid skins in games and my 5yo is repeating things from videos I've never even seen. I feel like I'm losing control and the algorithm is basically a second parent at this point. Anyone else been in this spot and actually gotten it under control?

7 comments159 views

Comments(7)

CChris M.Regular3w ago

I get it, but here's the thing - you're still the parent even if you're using screens as a break. We all do it. Just try to balance it out when you can. Maybe set a specific time limit so it feels less like all day?

MMatt R.Regular3w ago

Real talk though, YouTube can become a habit really fast. Maybe try replacing it with something even easier that's less of a gateway to endless scrolling? Like putting on a movie instead?

CChris M.Regular3w ago

This is such a common struggle. Maybe set some limits on which YouTube channels are okay so at least it's educational stuff when they do watch? Takes the edge off the guilt.

DDave M.New Dad3w ago

After a 10 hour day, you're doing better than you think. No parent is perfect. The fact that you're aware of it and want to change it means you're already being a good dad.

CCarlosRegular3w ago

Man, I feel this in my soul. After a 10 hour day I'm just trying to get dinner done and keep them alive. YouTube isn't ideal but it's not the end of the world either. The guilt is the worst part.

CCarlosRegular3w ago

I get it, but you're being too hard on yourself. A 10 hour day is brutal and YouTube isn't the worst option. The key is setting boundaries when you do have time, not feeling guilty about the survival moments.

KKevinNew Dad3w ago

Have you tried putting on educational stuff instead? My kids actually learn from some YouTube channels and I don't feel as bad. Still not ideal but beats random garbage.