As parents and caregivers, many of us have wrestled with the challenge of letting our younger kids watch content online while still trying to protect them from the unexpected, and sometimes inappropriate, material that can slip through the cracks, even when parents or caregivers are watching along. That’s where Cocopine steps in, specific to YouTube, an app created by a father of three who clearly understands what modern parents are up against.
So, what sets Cocopine apart from something like YouTube Kids?
It’s More Than Just a Video App
Cocopine isn’t just a video platform, it’s a full-featured educational environment. Parents can authorize pre-screened, age-appropriate content, enrol their children in curated educational courses, and receive weekly summaries detailing what their child has watched or done in the app. It’s like having a report card for your child’s screen use, delivered straight to your parent or caregiver phone.
Addresses Real Gaps in YouTube Kids
While YouTube Kids has its place, many parents have noticed its flaws:
- Safe content often isn’t available, while some questionable videos (like Lego animations depicting traumatic scenarios) still slip through.
- As kids grow, they often outgrow the “babyish” feel of YouTube Kids, but jumping to regular YouTube is a risky leap.
- Ads are still a problem, even on videos labeled as kid-friendly – remember this is how YouTube makes its money.
- YouTube’s algorithmic design means creators are incentivized to chase views, not necessarily create age-appropriate content.
- Setting up parental controls on YouTube Kids can be a frustratingly complex process.
Cocopine tackles these problems head-on:
- It has NO ads.
- It has NO view-driven algorithm pushing edgy content.
- It has NO confusing control panels, just clear, parent-first settings.
- Refreshingly, there is NO need for a Google or YouTube account. and,
- It filters age appropriate content and channels that are approved by the parent or caregiver.
- It is extremely easy to download and use.
- The App is available in both Canada and the United States.
Privacy Done Right
Given that we are privacy hawks, one of the standout features for us is Cocopine’s commitment to privacy. After reading their full Privacy Policy and Terms of Service, we’re happy to report that:
- They don’t sell your, or your child’s, personal information to third parties.
- They collect the bare minimum of personal data needed to operate the app.
- It works in two modes “parent” and “child” modes, making it easy to manage and monitor content from your own device.
Cost and Access
There’s a free version available, which includes:
- 30 minutes of viewing time per day
- Access for one child
The “premium” paid version unlocks the full suite for just $3.99 US/month or $39 US/year, which includes:
- Up to five child profiles, each with custom permissions
- Unlimited viewing time (within limits you set)
- A wider selection of curated content
For the price, the value is outstanding, especially considering the peace of mind it brings.
Our Recommendation
We’re firm believers in the idea that it’s not enough to be told something works, you have to see it in action. So we downloaded the app and gave it a thorough test drive, and we’re happy to report, it delivers exactly what it promises.
At The White Hatter, where we spend every day educating families about digital literacy and internet safety, we would highly recommend Cocopine as a safer, more thoughtful way for youth and younger teens to engage with online video content on YouTube that should be considered by families. It’s not just about what they watch, it’s about building healthy habits and making sure their online time supports their growth and well-being.
If you’re looking for a smarter, simpler, and safer YouTube kids alternative, Cocopine is well worth checking out.
Website :
Apple Store:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/cocopine-safety-for-youtube/id6469459216
Google Play Store:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.plumu.app&pcampaignid=web_share
Digital Food For Thought
The White Hatter
Facts Not Fear, Facts Not Emotions, Enlighten Not Frighten, Know Tech Not No Tech
