The "Rabbit Hole" is what happens when YouTube’s recommendation engine takes over. The goal of the algorithm is simple: keep the user on the platform for as long as possible so they can serve more ads.

It does this by analyzing millions of data points to predict what your child will click on next. Unfortunately, the algorithm doesn't have a moral compass or an educational standard. It doesn't know the difference between a beautifully produced documentary and a loud, flashing, "Skibidi Toilet" meme video. It just knows that kids—especially those with developing prefrontal cortexes—are suckers for high-saturation colors, loud noises, and fast cuts.

You’ve probably heard your kids use the term "Brain Rot." It’s basically the internet’s own term for low-effort, high-stimulation content that provides zero value but is incredibly addictive. Think LankyBox or the endless stream of "unboxing" videos. These creators have hacked the algorithm. They know exactly how to title a video and what thumbnail to use to trigger a child's curiosity.

Ask our chatbot why "Brain Rot" is so addictive for the developing brain

Kids love the YouTube rabbit hole for the same reason we love TikTok or Instagram reels: it’s a frictionless dopamine hit.

Not all YouTube is created equal. Here is how to categorize what your kids are seeing:

These channels respect your kid’s intelligence and don’t rely on cheap tricks to keep them watching.

This content isn't necessarily "evil," but it’s the digital equivalent of eating a bag of Skittles for dinner.

Anything that features "Elsagate" style content (disturbing themes disguised as kids' characters) or channels that promote dangerous "challenges."

If you’re tired of playing whack-a-mole with bad videos, it’s time to stop using the standard YouTube recommendation engine.

Inside the YouTube Kids app, there is a setting called "Approved Content Only."

When you turn this on, the "Search" function is disabled, and the "Recommended" algorithm is killed. Your child can only watch the specific channels or videos that you have personally hand-selected.

It takes about 10 minutes to set up, but it is the single most effective way to end the rabbit hole. You can pick National Geographic Kids, Sesame Street, and Storyline Online, and that is it. No more surprise toilets.

Learn how to set up Approved Content Only on YouTube Kids

At this age, kids should not be "browsing" YouTube. Use YouTube Kids with the "Approved Content Only" setting mentioned above. Better yet, stick to dedicated apps like PBS Kids Video or Disney+ where the content is walled off.

This is when they start wanting to watch Minecraft tutorials or Roblox gameplay. Use the "Supervised Account" feature on regular YouTube, which allows you to filter out "Mature" content, but be aware: the algorithm is still very much active here.

They are going to see weird stuff. Use this time to talk about why a video is being recommended. Ask them: "Why do you think YouTube wants you to watch this next?" Help them understand that they are the product being sold to advertisers.

Don't just ban the "Brain Rot" without explaining why. You'll just make it more "forbidden fruit" and "sigma" (another word you'll hear them say).

Try saying this: "I noticed that after you watch those loud screaming videos, you seem really cranky and it's hard for you to focus on anything else. Those videos are designed to trick your brain into staying glued to the screen. Let's find some stuff that's actually interesting and doesn't make your brain feel like mush."

Check out our guide on talking to kids about digital manipulation

YouTube is a tool, not a babysitter. If you leave a child alone with the algorithm, the algorithm will eventually lead them somewhere you don't want them to go.

By moving to an Approved Content Only model for younger kids and teaching media literacy to older ones, you take the power back from the engineers in Silicon Valley and put it back in your hands.

Ask our chatbot for a list of YouTube channels for a 10-year-old who loves space