This is to purge small unprofitable YouTube channels. YouTube could easily set a setting so that your videos aren't set for children under 13. But by choosing to have a setting to block all children (those over 13) you take out a giant section of views.
COPPA actually gives exemptions for content which has mixed audience. So this really is a non issue. Honestly I think most people will wing as the reward far out ways the risk especially if you don't live in the US.
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