Getting started with digital content creation
Social media changes: What it means for your family.
Children under 16 can no longer create or keep accounts on some social media platforms, including TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, and YouTube.
This change is about protection, not punishment. It gives kids time to grow, build confidence and learn healthy online habits before using apps that can have risks.
What you can do to support your child:
Visit eSafety
This change is about protection, not punishment. It gives kids time to grow, build confidence and learn healthy online habits before using apps that can have risks.
What you can do to support your child:
- Talk together – Ask how they feel and listen to their worries. eSafety has tips to start the conversation.
- Discover what they enjoy online – Is it chatting, watching videos, or sharing creative posts?
- Find alternatives – eSafety’s guide suggests age-appropriate apps and activities to help kids stay connected and have fun.
- Work as a team – Reduce screen time as a family and keep talking. If your child finds the change hard, ReachOut has a parent guide to help.
Key takeaways
- There are many free tools that help you create videos, podcasts, art, and more.
- You can build editing, design, and storytelling skills—all from your phone or computer.
- Always check privacy settings and use your creativity responsibly.
Ready to start creating your own content?
Whether it’s a short film, a podcast, or digital art, there are free tools that make it easy and fun to begin.
This guide introduces safe, beginner-friendly apps you can use to bring your ideas to life.
Video creation tools
CapCut
- What it is: A free video editing app with filters, effects, and templates.
- Why it’s great: Ideal for creating content for TikTok, YouTube Shorts, or school projects.
- Platforms:
- Cost: Free with optional premium features.
- Safety: No account needed to edit; be mindful when sharing content online.
iMovie
- What it is: Apple's built-in video editor.
- Why it’s great: Simple drag-and-drop editing with music and transitions.
- Platforms: macOS, iOS.
- Cost: Free.
- Safety: No account required; content stays on your device unless shared.
Clipchamp
- What it is: A browser-based video editor owned by Microsoft.
- Why it’s great: User-friendly with templates and stock media.
- Platforms: macOS, iOS.
- Cost: Free tier available; paid upgrades optional.
- Safety: Requires a Microsoft account; check privacy settings when exporting.
Podcasting tools
Spotify for Podcasters (formerly Anchor)
- What it is: A free platform to record, edit, and publish podcasts.
- Why it’s great: No special equipment needed; publish directly to Spotify.
- Platforms:
- Cost: Free
- Safety: Requires an account; be cautious about sharing personal information.
Audacity
- What it is: A free, open-source audio editing program.
- Why it’s great: Powerful editing features for more control. Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux.
- Cost: Free
- Safety: No account needed; files are stored locally.
Graphic design & digital art tools
Canva
- What it is: A design platform with templates for social media, posters, and more.
- Why it’s great: Drag-and-drop interface with thousands of free elements.
- Platforms:
- Cost: Free tier available; premium features optional.
- Safety: Requires an account; offers privacy controls.
Adobe Express
- What it is: A simplified design tool from Adobe.
- Why it’s great: Easy to create graphics, videos, and animations.
- Platforms: Web, iOS, Android.
- Cost: Free tier available; premium features optional.
- Safety: Requires an account; Adobe provides privacy settings.
Krita
- What it is: A professional-grade digital painting program.
- Why it’s great: Ideal for drawing, painting, and illustration.
- Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux.
- Cost: Free.
- Safety: No account needed; files are stored locally.
Tips for safe and creative content creation
- Protect your privacy: Avoid sharing personal details like your full name, address, or school.
- Use royalty-free assets: Ensure music, images, and videos are free to use or properly licensed.
- Think before you post: Once something is online, it can be hard to remove.
- Be respectful: Avoid using content that could hurt or offend others.
- Check age requirements:Make sure you're old enough to use the platform and understand its terms.
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