Edutainment
Screen Time that’s Worthwhile: 8 Best Educational Shows for Kids
Here are 8 shows—a cross-section of educational TV in terms of STEM, history/culture, the arts, and more—for toddlers to early teens
In today’s digital age, children have access to an abundance of entertainment options, including TV shows and movies. However, not all of these options are created equal when it comes to providing educational value. As parents and educators, we want to ensure that our children are spending their time on shows that are not only entertaining but also offer educational benefits.
Luckily, there are plenty of excellent educational shows for kids of all ages available today. These shows are designed to engage and inspire children while providing them with valuable knowledge and skills that can help them in their academic and personal lives.
Here are 8 shows—a cross-section of educational TV in terms of STEM, history/culture, the arts, and more—for toddlers to early teens.
- Ask the Storybots
The show follows the story of how some friendly, funny bots discover the answer to a “big question.” The magazine format of this show allows for music videos, letter rhyming, songs, and field trips to different places within the episodes. Find it on Netflix, suitable for ages 3+
- Julie’s Greenroom
Julie Andrews plays a performing studio owner and stars alongside original puppets from the Jim Henson Company (as well as some high-power actors) as she teaches kids all about putting on a stage show. Find it on Netflix, suitable for ages 4+
- Rosie’s Rules
In addition to learning Spanish language skills and being exposed to Mexican traditions, Rosie’s Rules teaches children about cultural diversity with easy-to-understand lessons. The show is wholesome, educational, and entertaining. Find it on PBS Kids, suitable for ages 5+
- Baymax!
Loveable and huggable, Baymax is more than a cute, cuddly robot. He helps people stay well. Each episode teaches children about living a healthy life. Find it on Disney+, suitable for ages 5+
- Wild Kratts
Saturday morning never had it so good. In this animated series, kids are introduced to a variety of wild animal species and learn about science concepts such as animal behavior, habitats, and adaptation in this show which is brimming with real-life zoologist brothers Chris and Martin Kratt’s trademark humor and sense of adventure. Find it on PBS Kids, suitable for ages 6+
- Brainchild
This science-inspired educational series uses experiments and creative presentations to teach about concepts like the senses, neurology, marine biology, and gravity, all at a level relatable for kids—especially tweens. Find it on Netflix, suitable for ages 7+
- El Deafo
According to Common Sense Media, “this beautiful three-part miniseries feels like an animated diary as the show uses audio effects to help viewers understand what the world sounds like with hearing loss. The combination of these effects and the narration helps kid viewers really feel Cece’s joys and struggles.” Find it on Apple TV+, suitable for ages 8+
- The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder
Relatable stories, good role models, and zany comedy made The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder a great show for tweens, teens, and young adults. Find it on Disney+, suitable for ages 10+