In the age of streaming, there is plenty of content for kids to watch. However, not all programming is created equal. As a parent, it can be challenging to navigate the vast sea of options and find shows that are both entertaining and educational.
Luckily, many streaming services have recognized this need and now offer a wide variety of quality children’s programming. From classic favorites to new releases, here are some top picks for kids’ shows on various streaming platforms.
Netflix
For younger viewers, Netflix has an impressive selection of animated series. “Octonauts” follows a team of underwater explorers who learn about marine life while going on exciting adventures. “Puffin Rock” features adorable puffins exploring their island home while teaching valuable lessons about nature and friendship.
For older children, “The Magic School Bus Rides Again” continues the beloved franchise with new science-related adventures led by Ms. Frizzle’s sister Fiona. Another great choice is “A Series of Unfortunate Events,” based on the popular book series by Lemony Snickett.
Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video offers several exclusive children’s programs that are worth checking out. For preschoolers, “Tumble Leaf” uses stop-motion animation to teach science concepts through imaginative playtime experiences.
Older kids may enjoy Amazon Originals such as “Just Add Magic,” where three friends discover a magical cookbook that helps them solve mysteries around their town or “The Kicks,” which follows soccer player Devin Burke as she navigates middle school challenges along with her teammates.
Disney+
Launched in late 2019 exclusively for Disney content lovers Disney+ has quickly become one of the most popular services among families with young children thanks to its extensive library from Walt Disney Studios’ TV shows and movies including Pixar Animation Studios productions being available under one roof.
Kids can watch classics like “Dumbo” (1941) or newer titles like “Coco” (2017) and “Frozen II” (2019). Disney+ also offers original programming, such as “The Mandalorian,” a Star Wars series that has quickly become a fan favorite.
Hulu
Hulu is another popular streaming service offering several quality children’s programs. For preschoolers, “Doc McStuffins” follows a young girl who can talk to her toys and helps them when they have problems.
Older kids may enjoy Hulu Originals like the award-winning “The Bravest Knight,” which features an openly gay lead character on a quest to become a knight, or the teen drama series “Looking for Alaska”, based on the John Green novel of the same name.
Apple TV+
A relative newcomer to the streaming world, Apple TV+ has made waves with its original content featuring A-list celebrities. While it doesn’t offer as many kids’ shows yet compared to other services; it does provide some excellent choices in terms of educational programming.
“The Helpsters” features Sesame Street-style puppetry and teaches children about problem-solving through coding concepts while “Ghostwriter,” an update of PBS’s classic show from 20 years ago encourages literacy by using classic literature characters stories and themes into modern-day mysteries.
PBS Kids
Public broadcasting network PBS has been producing quality children’s programming for decades with their PBS Kids channel dedicated exclusively to younger viewers.
Their best-known series include “Sesame Street,” still running after more than 50 years of entertaining and educating generations of children, and “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood,” a spinoff from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood that teaches important social-emotional skills for preschoolers.
Final Thoughts
Streaming services have revolutionized how we watch television shows; however, parents should be vigilant in choosing appropriate content regardless if they decide to go with one or all these platforms. The good news is that there are plenty of great options available that will keep your child entertained while also teaching valuable lessons.