Watch platforms like a user, not a creator (YouTube, Shorts, TikTok) to see what’s repeatedly showing up

Track top creators in a niche, not just viral ones—consistency reveals direction

Study comments and remixes, not just views (they show why something works)

Test small and fast (shorts, clips) before committing to big projects

Look for format shifts, not topics (same ideas, new packaging)

Review analytics weekly to see what’s gaining momentum vs. fading

Practically:

Simple stories with clear beginnings and endings

Bright visuals & movement, but not overwhelming

Positive humor (no sarcasm, fear, or cruelty)

Clear rules and values baked in (kindness, curiosity, honesty)

Repetition and patterns kids can follow and anticipate

Interactive moments: questions, pauses, “your turn” prompts

Safety-wise:

No scary imagery, adult themes, or manipulative clickbait

Language that’s age-appropriate and respectful

Predictable tone—kids feel safe when they know what to expect

Designed so parents feel comfortable walking away for a minute

Bottom line: engaging for kids, reassuring for parents. If you win both, the content lasts

I measure success simply: whether people click, stay to watch, and react.

If they watch to the end, comment, share, and come back for more — the content is successful