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    How to create a YouTube account for your child

    YouTube handles (@names) are globally unique and increasingly hard to get. Even if your child won't post for years, reserving the handle now protects their future creator identity.

    Minimum age: 13+
    6 steps

    Setup steps

    1. 1Sign in to YouTube with the Gmail account you created
    2. 2Click on the profile icon and select 'Create a channel'
    3. 3Choose 'Use a custom name' to set their desired handle
    4. 4Enter the username you want to reserve
    5. 5Complete the channel setup with a profile picture
    6. 6Go to Settings > Channel > Handle to confirm the @handle

    Parent pro tips

    • YouTube handles are globally unique - secure it early
    • The same Gmail can have multiple channels if needed later
    • Enable Restricted Mode if the account is for a young child

    Don't lose the name — check it first

    Run your child's name across 5+ platforms in one click before you start signing up.