Having a YouTube channel is a fun and creative pastime. Issues such as security and privacy, however, could be a cause for concern for your parents - if you want to get their permission, watch YouTube videos that you think are appropriate with them. Ask politely, assure them that you will be responsible, and show them the videos before posting them. If, despite these precautions, they persist in refusing, let some time pass before asking again. If you show that you are a mature person who can accept their decision, they may even change their minds.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Planning the Strategy
Step 1. Choose an appropriate topic
Think about the type of video you would like to post and ask yourself if your parents would approve. Probably, before they give you permission to post the videos, they'll want to know what you're talking about. Think about topics that interest you and that you could appropriately cover on your YouTube channel.
- Many channels focus on hobbies, politics, pets, and the interests of their owners. Find a topic you are passionate about and choose how you want to treat it.
- Maybe you are interested in manual activities. You can explain how to make one in particular through tutorials, which are usually not controversial. In all likelihood, yours will approve of this type of content.
Step 2. Take a test video
It can be useful for clearly showing your parents the type of content you plan to bring to the channel. Edit the video during your free time. Before posting it, show it to your parents to see if they approve of it.
Make sure the video is appropriate. Talk about a non-controversial topic and avoid swearing
Step 3. Make a list of problems that may arise
Parents worry a lot about the use that their children make of social networks. The biggest fears relate to security, privacy and moral harassment by other users. Make a list of issues that may worry them most and think about how to address them.
- If privacy is their concern, propose not to show your face in videos. Instead of framing your face, you can include writing or drawing and talking off-screen.
- If they are afraid of the virtual offenses you may receive, tell them that you will try not to think too much about negative comments and that you will block anyone who bullies you. You can also tell them that you will disable comments under your videos.
Step 4. Plan what you are going to say
It may be helpful to rehearse the speech more than once. Do this in front of a mirror or write down your thoughts. It does not necessarily have to be a perfect script, but it can be useful for you to have an eye on the right words to use.
Part 2 of 3: Talk to Parents
Step 1. Find a good time to talk to them
Be careful to choose the most suitable time of day. Chances are they'll be less willing to listen to you if you catch them when they're stressed or in a rush. Choose a time when they are relatively relaxed and free, such as a Saturday afternoon, rather than an evening during the week.
Step 2. Introduce the topic right away
When it comes to talking to parents, it's always best to get straight to the point. Say something like, "I wanted to ask you something." Then explain the topic, quietly and in a mature way. You can say: “I'd like to open a YouTube channel”.
Step 3. Watch YouTube videos with them
They may not be familiar with this site and the circle of people who post videos on it. Many parents assume that virtual communities are filled with negativity and that the content is not appropriate or educational. Watch the videos you love the most with them, so they can understand the true value of YouTube.
Choose channels that are particularly appropriate or, even better, educational. Channels dealing with cultural issues, for example, have a good chance of impressing parents in a positive way
Step 4. When asking for permission, express gratitude
Being grateful (without exaggerating) could make your parents a little more accommodating. Thanking them for everything they do for you is an act of maturity that could come in handy in this situation.
For example, you might say, “I know you want my good and I thank you for it. I understand that if you impose rules on me regarding the use of the Internet, you do it only because you care about me and my safety"
Step 5. Ensure that you will be transparent about your use of the Internet
Parents are usually curious about what their children do online, to the point that many of them go to check the history. The more transparent you are, the calmer they will be about the sites you visit. Tell them they can seamlessly watch your channel history and videos.
Step 6. Listen to their point of view
Once you have finished your speech, it is important to let your parents have the floor so that they can give their opinion. While they do, don't interrupt them and try to understand the meaning of their words.
This can be a good time to discuss any concerns. If they are hesitant, try to understand the reason for their uncertainty and find a compromise
Part 3 of 3: Coping with Rejection
Step 1. Avoid arguing or complaining
If your parents are undecided or say no, don't be angry. This behavior could disappoint them and cause your exchange of views to turn into a fight. Instead, stay calm and respectfully respond to the issues they raise.
Step 2. Agree to keep your videos private
Many parents do not want their children to "flag" their life online. Their concerns could be about bullying, being hurt, or the possibility of someone bothering you in real life. If this is the main issue, you agree to keep your channel private and to share videos only with friends and people you know.
Say something like: “If you don't want anyone to watch my videos, I can keep the channel private. So only my friends will be able to see what I publish”
Step 3. Tell them they can control your followers
Parents often want to monitor how their children interact with others on the network. If you promise to be as transparent as possible, they might be reassured by the idea that you have a YouTube channel. Let them watch the videos you post and check the profiles of your followers.
You can also tell them that you will block followers they don't trust. This can help resolve any security issues
Step 4. Offer something in return
If they are not convinced, try to find a compromise. The YouTube channel can be the reward for good behavior. For example, propose to improve your math performance. Ask them if they will let you post videos in exchange for a commitment from you to get higher grades than usual.
Step 5. Accept their response
If they still say no, get over it. Arguing, complaining, or sulking will only make them even more angry. If you accept a negative answer without going into a rage, they will understand that you are mature and, perhaps, they will change their mind.
