Top Children-Friendly TV Shows
You have a bunch of young ones at home, so it's time to fill their screens with positive family entertainment. These kids’ TV shows offer positive messages about empathy, compassion, and responsibility that will stay with them long after they go off to bed.
From a new series about an African-American girl in the South to a classic book-turned-movie about a boy who defends an African-American man, here are some shows you should add to your family's Netflix lineup.
Sesame Street
If you are expecting realistic animatronic costumes, you will not get them here but Sesame Street is a children's television show that uses puppets, animation, and live actors to teach kids about letters, numbers, and values. Additionally, it helps them develop friendships, compassion, and sharing.
This long-running show is a staple of PBS and is considered an innovator in educational television. It was created by Joan Ganz Cooney and Llyod Morrisett.
Though the series has faced criticism over its social content, it remains a popular and beloved show. It's one of the few shows that employ child development experts before writing scripts.
The show boasts an international fan base and has been aired in multiple countries. Furthermore, it spawned spin-offs like Play with Me Sesame and the segment-only Open Sesame.
Doc McStuffins
Doc McStuffins is a children's television show that appeals to both young and adult viewers alike. It's an engaging, educational cartoon that doesn't cater too much to little viewers and also doesn't get too dramatic like some shows can be.
The show follows a freckled, seven-year-old girl as she strives to become a doctor like her mother, a pediatrician. Through the use of her magical toy stethoscope, she heals toys, dolls and stuffed animals by performing medical exams on them.
She has many friends who serve as her patients. Some of the more famous patients include Lula, a sponge toy that looks like a whale when submerged, and Marvin, a rubber ducky who lost its squeaker. Other clients include an exotic hula girl from Hawaii who does hula dances when the sun hits her and Wildlife Will - an action figure inspired by Steve Irwin who loves exploring nature's creatures around town.
Dora The Explorer
Dora The Explorer is one of the most beloved children's TV shows, and it's no wonder why. The show seamlessly blends entertainment, education, and values in an enjoyable manner that keeps kids enthralled and engaged.
Additionally, it teaches kids to be more interactive by inviting them to join each episode's adventures. Characters ask viewers to shout out words and search for objects, helping them realize that their role in the world is not passive but dynamic.
The show's creators are dedicated to accurately representing Latin American culture. To this end, they enlist a team of Latin advisers from Mexico, Cuba, and Costa Rica who help make Dora's world reflect the region's history and people.
Beat Bugs
Beat Bugs is an animated children's series inspired by The Beatles’ music. Created by Josh Wakely for Netflix, it features insects singing various Beatles songs while building their world around them.
The show follows a group of bugs living in an untamed backyard garden. It's filled with everyday people items that become playthings, obstacles, and creative inspiration for the characters.
Through their friends' help, they learn valuable lessons about friendship and teamwork - making the show, especially appealing to young kids.
They face numerous difficulties that require resolution. Eventually, this helps them repair their relationships and learn from their mistakes. These episodes provide kids with invaluable life lessons that will last them a lifetime.
Blue’s Clues & You
Blue's Clues & You is a modern remake of one of Nickelodeon's beloved shows, Blue joins her best friend Josh on clue-filled adventures and puzzle-solving quests.
This show imparts many valuable lessons to kids, such as problem-solving and the value of asking for assistance from others. Its vibrant visuals and animated characters also keep young viewers engrossed and entertained.
Blue's Big City Adventure, like many children's TV shows, aims to inspire kids that they can achieve their dreams if they work hard and believe in themselves. Additionally, it explores street art history from a unique perspective that adults will enjoy as well.
