Today’s Wonder of the Day was inspired by Dylan. Dylan Wonders, “How was YouTube created?” Thanks for WONDERing with us, Dylan!

Have you ever dumped ice water over your head? Can you freeze in place like a mannequin? Have you flipped a water bottle in the air and watched it land right side up? If you recognize these activities, you probably know they started as YouTube challenges!

A YouTube challenge is a silly task that people attempt on video. When others see the video on YouTube, they try doing the challenge, too! Challenges spread quickly due to YouTube's enormous audience. The site has two billion visitors each day and over three hundred hours of video are posted every minute. In fact, YouTube is the second most visited place online!

Despite its popularity today, YouTube hasn't been around long. In 2005, three friends named Jawed Karim, Chad Hurley, and Steve Chen wanted to share a video online. The three looked for a video sharing site but couldn't find one. That's when they decided to create their own. They uploaded their first video, "Me at the Zoo," and YouTube was born. Today, YouTube challenges aren't the only videos you'll find on the site.

Do you dream of being famous? Years ago, most celebrities worked in music, television, or movies. Today, YouTube stars are as well-known as many movie stars. YouTube celebrities come from all walks of life. They might be makeup artists or expert gamers. Some are people just living their everyday lives on video. Thousands of people subscribe to their channels. YouTube challenges often start with these celebrities!

Having trouble with your homework? YouTube can help! The site has countless educational videos. You'll find everything from basic how-to videos to tutorials for advanced math. Khan Academy even got its start on YouTube. What's your special talent? One day, you could share videos to help others learn what you know.

YouTube has also made it easier to spread information. News stations and politicians both use YouTube to share messages quickly. Have you ever watched the news or listened to a public figure speak on YouTube? You're not alone! Many people see this as a way to keep up with current events.

Other people go to YouTube to watch unboxing videos. These are videos of people taking products out of boxes and using them for the first time. There are unboxing videos of all kinds of products. From makeup to video game consoles to new toys, people just love to watch others use brand new things.

Of course, there are some things to watch out for on YouTube. You certainly shouldn't do every challenge you see, and you should always be careful about what information you believe. Remember, anyone can post a video on YouTube, so always fact check what they tell you. It's always best to talk to your parents before going online, and get their advice before viewing anything questionable. When used responsibly by good digital citizens, YouTube can be a great tool!

Will you start the next YouTube challenge? Is your goal to become a YouTube celebrity? Do you search YouTube for homework help? Will you create videos to spread your own ideas one day? You may even come up with the next big idea yourself!

Wonder What's Next?

We’ll race you to the finish line with tomorrow’s Wonder of the Day!