Some kids are incredibly creative and love to write. For some, writing is just for fun, while others use it as an outlet to express themselves, as they’re better with the written word than talking. Regardless of why a young person wants to start a blog, the elephant in the room is whether or not it’s possible.
You can successfully start a blog under 18. You can create your blog or use a free blogging platform. Depending on the route you choose, you may or may not need an adult to help with setting it up. Be aware that you’re not immune to copyright infringement or plagiarism, and you have the option to make money.
If you’re under 18 and want to start your own blog, the good news is that it’s relatively easy and can be done in a few quick steps. However, there are some essential things to be aware of before diving in. This article shares the most important things to keep in mind when venturing into the blogging world.
Can You Start a Blog Under 18?
You can successfully start a blog under 18 and have two options: self-hosted or hosted.
Self-hosted blogs refer to purchased blogs that you create and own in their entirety. You have free reign to customize and monetize your blog however you wish.
The benefit of having a self-hosted blog is you choose the domain, such as ThisIsMyBlog.Com. Self-hosted blogs cost money and can be time-consuming to complete.
Hosted blogs are blogs that are posted on blogging platforms, such as Blogger.com. You choose the name, and it will show up as ThisIsMyBlog.Blogger.com.
It’s less professional but great for young ones starting – especially since it’s free and straightforward to set up.
Regardless of the option you choose, you may need your parent’s help – especially if you’re under 18. Most applications allow children 13 and older to create a blog.
So, if you’re under 13, be prepared to ask your parents for permission and help along the way.
Things to Consider When Starting a Blog Under 18
Hearing that you can start a blog under 18 is excellent news, especially if you’re a young person that wants to start being creative ASAP.
Before dipping your toes into the blogging world, there are a few essential things to consider, such as:
You’re Not Immune to Copyright Infringement
Every kid (and adult) wants to add content to their blog, such as pictures. It adds much-needed color and “fun” to the blog, especially if you’re creating content geared toward other kids or teens your age.
The issue is copyright infringement. Just because you’re under 18, it doesn’t mean you can steal photos. However, most young people aren’t aware of what copyright infringement actually means.
Basically, if you use a photo someone else has created and use it on your blog without their permission, you’re engaging in copyright infringement.
This will not only cause trouble for your blog, but it can lead to hefty fines and some time spent in court.
The better option? Use a platform with free and copyright-free photos, such as FreeImages, Unsplash, or Pixabay.
You’re Not Immune to Plagiarism Either
The other issue is plagiarism. Plagiarism is similar to copyright infringement, except you’re stealing someone’s words rather than their photographs.
That said, ensure you’re writing everything in your own words. To make sure that all of your content is 100% unique, run your article through Copyscape or Grammarly.
That way, you don’t have to worry about any plagiarism-related hiccups down the road.
You Can Make Money if Desired
Did you know that just because you’re under 18, it doesn’t mean you can’t monetize your blog?
In fact, this is an excellent way for young people to make money without having to spend their entire afternoons and weekends at an in-person job.
There are lots of ways to potentially make money with your blog. You can sell ad space on your blog, engage in affiliate marketing (selling other people’s items and getting a cut when someone purchases), or sell your own products.
Keep in mind that if you do something such as ads or affiliate marketing, you will most likely need your parent’s help, as most companies won’t work with individuals under 18 without their parent’s consent.
You will also need to get your own bank account and a tax ID number. This may sound overly “professional” for a person under 18, but making money from a blog is the same as making money from any other job. It needs to be reported to the IRS during tax season.
Blogs Need to Be Updated Regularly
It’s important to know that your blog isn’t like a new puppy – it’s fun at first, and then you get bored and neglect it.
While you can essentially do whatever you want with your new blog, if you want it to be successful, you need to treat it like a serious business (while still having fun, of course). If you do it right, you can even use it on college applications.
It’s recommended to make a new post at least once a week, although many bloggers say “the more, the merrier.”
So, you can easily post daily and have hundreds of articles to read through. You’ll earn more traffic, and readers will be excited to check out your new work!
You Need to be Careful
Most young people have had a conversation with their parents about the “dangers of the internet,” and it’s all true.
That said, when making your blog, it’s imperative to be proactive about not giving away personal information and implementing safeguards and courses of action in the event of harassment, bullying, etc.
You Can Successfully Start a Blog Under 18
Starting a blog under 18 is a fun and potentially money-making idea.
The most important thing to remember is that even blogs for pleasure need to avoid plagiarism and copyright infringement. If you plan to make money off your blog, you will need your parent’s help, a bank account, and a tax ID number.
Regardless, regularly updating your blog is key to success!
