As a parent, I try to be intentional about the media my kids watch. While we still set boundaries around screen time, I’ve found that not all shows and movies are created equal. Some are fast-paced and mindless, while others actually encourage curiosity, creativity, and learning. The programs on this list fall into that second category. These are the educational TV shows and movies my kids watch that teach things like reading, math, science, history, problem-solving, and kindness—and because they add real value, they’re the ones I never feel guilty about turning on.
20 Best Educational TV Shows for Kids
1. Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood is a great show for young children because it teaches important social and emotional skills through simple stories and songs. Each episode focuses on everyday situations kids face—like sharing, trying new things, or handling big feelings—and offers easy strategies they can remember and use.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Teaches emotional skills like patience, kindness, and self-control
- Uses short songs that help kids remember helpful lessons
- Calm pacing and gentle storytelling make it easy for young kids to follow
Where to watch: PBS Kids, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
2. Bear in the Big Blue House
Bear in the Big Blue House is a gentle, educational show that helps young children learn about everyday life through songs, stories, and friendly conversations. The show follows Bear and his friends as they explore simple topics like feelings, friendship, and curiosity in a warm and playful way. Its calm pace and interactive style make it easy for preschoolers to understand and enjoy.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Encourages social skills like sharing, kindness, and friendship
- Uses songs and repetition to help kids remember lessons
- Calm storytelling and friendly characters make it easy for young children to follow
Where to watch: Disney+, Disney Junior
3. Bluey
Bluey is a fun and heartwarming show about a playful puppy named Bluey who goes on imaginative adventures with her family. Through everyday games and stories, the show highlights creativity, problem-solving, and the importance of family time. Its humor and relatable moments make it enjoyable for both kids and parents.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Encourages imagination and creative play
- Shows positive family relationships and teamwork
- Teaches simple life lessons through everyday situations
Where to watch: Disney+, DisneyNOW
4. The Magic School Bus (original series)
The Magic School Bus is an exciting educational show where Ms. Frizzle takes her class on amazing field trips in a magical bus that can travel anywhere—even inside the human body or deep into space. Each adventure helps kids learn about science in a fun, imaginative way. The show turns complex topics into simple, engaging stories that spark curiosity about how the world works.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Teaches science concepts in a fun and easy-to-understand way
- Encourages curiosity and exploration
- Uses imaginative adventures to make learning exciting
Where to watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video
5. Cyberchase
Cyberchase is an educational adventure show where a group of kids travel through a digital world to stop the villain Hacker. Along the way, they solve problems using math, logic, and teamwork. The show makes learning math feel like an exciting mission rather than a lesson.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Teaches math and problem-solving skills in a fun way
- Encourages teamwork and critical thinking
- Uses adventures and challenges to make learning exciting
Where to watch: PBS Kids, Amazon Prime Video
6. Trash Truck
Trash Truck is a sweet and gentle show about a young boy named Hank and his best friend, a big friendly trash truck. Together, they go on simple adventures around their neighborhood and learn about friendship, kindness, and everyday life. The calm storytelling and imaginative play make it easy and enjoyable for young children to watch.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Teaches friendship, kindness, and helping others
- Encourages imagination and creative play
- Calm pacing makes it great for younger children
Where to watch: Netflix
7. Sid the Science Kid
Sid the Science Kid is a fun educational show about a curious boy named Sid who loves asking questions about how things work. Each episode explores simple science topics through experiments, songs, and classroom discoveries. The show encourages kids to be curious and excited about learning.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Introduces basic science concepts in a fun way
- Encourages curiosity and asking questions
- Uses songs and experiments to make learning memorable
Where to watch: PBS Kids, Amazon Prime Video
8. Ms. Rachel
Ms. Rachel is a popular children’s learning show created by Rachel Griffin Accurso that focuses on helping babies and toddlers build early speech and learning skills. Through songs, repetition, and clear, slow teaching, the show helps young children learn words, sounds, and basic concepts. Its interactive style encourages kids to sing, talk, and participate along with the lessons.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Supports early speech and language development
- Uses songs, repetition, and clear teaching for easy learning
- Encourages kids to participate, sing, and respond during the show
Where to watch: Netflix, Youtube
9. Wild Kratts
Wild Kratts is an exciting educational show where brothers Chris Kratt and Martin Kratt explore the animal world using special creature powers. Each adventure teaches kids fascinating facts about wildlife, habitats, and how animals survive in nature. The show mixes action, humor, and science to make learning about animals fun.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Teaches kids interesting facts about animals and nature
- Encourages curiosity about wildlife and the environment
- Combines adventure and learning to keep kids engaged
Where to watch: PBS Kids, Amazon Prime Video
10. Sesame Street
Sesame Street is a classic educational show that helps young children learn letters, numbers, and important life skills through songs, stories, and colorful characters. The show mixes fun, humor, and simple lessons to help kids understand topics like friendship, kindness, and problem-solving. Its playful style makes learning feel natural and enjoyable for preschoolers.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Teaches early skills like letters, numbers, and basic problem-solving
- Encourages kindness, sharing, and understanding others
- Uses songs, puppets, and stories to make learning fun
Where to watch: PBS Kids, HBO Max / Max, YouTube (clips)
11. Little Bear
Little Bear is a gentle, slow-paced show about a young bear and his friends as they explore everyday adventures using their imagination. The stories focus on friendship, family, and simple childhood experiences that are easy for young kids to understand. Its calm tone and soft storytelling make it a comforting show for preschoolers.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Encourages imagination and creative play
- Teaches kindness, friendship, and family values
- Calm and simple stories that are easy for young children to follow
Where to watch: Paramount+, Amazon Prime Video
12. Puffin Rock
Puffin Rock is a calm and beautiful show about a young puffin named Oona and her little brother Baba as they explore nature on their island home. Each episode teaches gentle lessons about friendship, family, and the natural world through simple adventures. The soft narration and peaceful storytelling make it a relaxing and enjoyable show for young children.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Teaches about nature and animals in a simple way
- Encourages kindness, curiosity, and problem-solving
- Calm pacing makes it great for younger viewers
Where to watch: Netflix
13. Word World
WordWorld is a fun educational show where characters and objects are made out of letters, helping kids see how words are built. Each episode focuses on spelling simple words and learning how letters come together to form language. The playful stories make reading and spelling feel like a game.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Helps kids learn letters, spelling, and early reading skills
- Uses fun stories to make learning words exciting
- Encourages confidence with language and vocabulary
Where to watch: PBS Kids, Paramount+, Youtube
14. Stillwater
Stillwater is a calm and thoughtful show about three siblings who learn life lessons from their wise panda neighbor, Stillwater. Through simple stories, the show teaches kids about feelings, patience, kindness, and understanding others. Its peaceful style helps children relax while learning important social and emotional skills.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Teaches mindfulness, kindness, and emotional awareness
- Uses gentle stories to explain real-life situations
- Calm pacing makes it great for quiet, relaxed watching
Where to watch: Apple TV+
15. Peep and the Big Wide World
Peep and the Big Wide World is a fun learning show about a curious chick named Peep and his friends as they explore the world around them. Each episode introduces simple science and nature topics through playful adventures and questions. The show encourages kids to be curious, observe, and learn by exploring.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Teaches basic science and nature concepts
- Encourages curiosity and asking questions
- Uses humor and adventures to make learning fun
Where to watch: PBS Kids
16. Ask the StoryBots
Ask the StoryBots is a fun learning show where the StoryBots go on adventures to answer kids’ big questions about how the world works. Each episode explores topics like space, the human body, animals, and technology using songs, jokes, and colorful animation. The fast-paced stories make learning exciting and easy to understand.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Answers real questions kids often ask
- Teaches science, history, and everyday facts in a fun way
- Uses music and humor to keep kids interested
Where to watch: Netflix
17. Numberblocks
Numberblocks is a fun learning show where colorful number characters go on adventures to teach kids how numbers work. Each episode helps children understand counting, adding, and simple math through songs and playful stories. The bright visuals and repetition make it easy for young kids to follow along and learn.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Teaches counting and early math skills
- Uses songs and repetition to help kids remember
- Makes learning numbers fun and easy to understand
Where to watch: Netflix, YouTube
18. Animated Hero Classics
Animated Hero Classics is an educational show that tells the true stories of famous people who made a difference in history. Each episode introduces kids to heroes like inventors, leaders, and explorers, showing how hard work, courage, and determination can change the world. The stories help children learn important values while discovering real historical figures.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Teaches history through real-life heroes
- Encourages good character traits like courage and perseverance
- Inspires kids to learn from people who made a difference
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, YouTube
19. Blippi
Blippi is an energetic learning show where Blippi explores places like museums, playgrounds, farms, and construction sites to teach kids about the world around them. The show uses songs, bright colors, and simple explanations to help young children understand everyday things. Its playful style keeps kids interested while they learn.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Teaches about real-world places, jobs, and machines
- Uses songs and repetition to help kids remember
- Encourages curiosity and learning through exploration
Where to watch: Netflix, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu
20. BrainSurge
BrainSurge is a fun quiz-style game show where kids compete by answering memory, logic, and problem-solving questions. The challenges are fast-paced and silly, but they also make kids think carefully and pay attention. The show turns learning and using your brain into an exciting game.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Builds memory and thinking skills
- Encourages focus and problem-solving
- Makes learning feel like a fun challenge
Where to watch: Paramount+, Amazon Prime Video
10 Best Educational Movies for Kids
1. Mr. Peabody & Sherman
The Mr. Peabody & Sherman Show is a fun and educational show about a smart dog named Mr. Peabody and his friend Sherman, who travel through time to visit important moments in history. Their adventures introduce kids to famous people, inventions, and events in a funny and easy-to-understand way. The mix of comedy and learning makes history exciting instead of boring.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Introduces history in a fun and simple way
- Encourages curiosity about the past
- Uses humor and adventure to keep kids interested
Where to watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video
2. LeapFrog Movies
The LeapFrog learning movies like Letter Factory, Talking Words Factory, Math Circus, Numberland, Phonics Farm, The Amazing Alphabet Amusement Park, and Adventures in Shapeville Park are educational shows designed to teach young children letters, numbers, phonics, and early reading skills. Each movie uses songs, repetition, and colorful characters to make learning easy to understand and fun to watch. The simple lessons and catchy music help kids remember what they learn.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Teaches letters, phonics, numbers, and early math skills
- Uses songs and repetition to help kids learn faster
- Fun characters make learning feel like playtime
Where to watch: Amazon Prime, Youtube, or purchase the DVD’s
3. Schoolhouse Rock! Movies
Schoolhouse Rock! Movies and specials like Earth, Grammar Rock, and America Rock use catchy songs and short cartoons to teach kids about grammar, science, history, and how the government works. The fun music and simple animations make big topics easier to understand and remember. Even short episodes can teach lessons that stick with kids for years.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Teaches grammar, science, and history in a fun way
- Catchy songs help kids remember what they learn
- Makes school topics simple and entertaining
Where to watch: Disney+
4. Magic School Bus Rides Again Movies
The Magic School Bus Rides Again Movies like Kids in Space, The Frizz Connection, Zone Out, and In the Zone continue the fun science adventures of the Magic School Bus with new students and exciting field trips. Each show explores topics like space, technology, and the human body in a way that is easy for kids to understand. The mix of humor, action, and learning makes science feel fun and interesting.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Teaches science through fun adventures
- Encourages curiosity about how things work
- Makes learning exciting with humor and action
Where to watch: Netflix
5. Charlotte’s Web
Charlotte’s Web is a heartwarming show about a kind pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a clever spider named Charlotte. The show teaches kids about kindness, friendship, and helping others even when it’s hard. Its gentle message and memorable characters make it a meaningful watch for children.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Teaches friendship, kindness, and caring for others
- Shows the importance of helping and telling the truth
- A gentle story that is easy for kids to understand
Where to watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
6. A Bug’s Life
A Bug’s Life is a fun animated show about a small ant named Flik who tries to help his colony by coming up with new ideas. Along the way, he learns about courage, teamwork, and believing in yourself even when others doubt you. The show mixes humor, adventure, and positive lessons that kids can understand.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Teaches teamwork and helping others
- Encourages confidence and problem-solving
- Fun characters and adventure keep kids interested
Where to watch: Disney+
7. Soul
Soul is a thoughtful animated show about a music teacher named Joe who learns important lessons about life, purpose, and enjoying everyday moments. The show helps kids understand that life is not just about big achievements, but also about appreciating the small things. Its mix of humor, music, and heart makes it meaningful for families to watch together.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Teaches gratitude and enjoying everyday life
- Encourages thinking about purpose and kindness
- Fun music and humor keep kids interested
Where to watch: Disney+
8. Inside Out (1 & 2)
Inside Out 1 and Inside Out 2 are animated shows that explore the emotions inside a child’s mind, like Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Anxiety. The shows help kids understand their feelings and learn that every emotion has a purpose. With humor and heartfelt moments, they make big feelings easier for children to understand.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Helps kids understand and talk about their feelings
- Teaches that all emotions are important
- Funny and touching moments keep kids engaged
Where to watch: Disney+
9. Wall-E
WALL-E is a touching animated show about a small robot left on Earth who learns about friendship, love, and caring for the planet. As WALL-E goes on an adventure in space, the show teaches kids the importance of helping others and protecting the environment. The simple storytelling and lovable characters make it easy for children to enjoy.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Teaches caring for the Earth and helping others
- Shows friendship, kindness, and teamwork
- Fun adventure with a sweet and easy-to-follow story
Where to watch: Disney+
10. Elemental
Elemental is a colorful animated show about characters made of fire, water, air, and earth who learn how to understand each other even though they are different. The show teaches kids about friendship, acceptance, and respecting others. Its fun story and bright animation make the lessons easy for children to enjoy.
Why it’s a good show for kids:
- Teaches acceptance and understanding differences
- Shows the importance of friendship and kindness
- Bright visuals and fun story keep kids interested
Where to watch: Netflix
Related Articles:
- How to Make Screen Time Beneficial for Kids
- 100+ Screen Free Activities for Kids They Are Going to Love
- The Best Educational Apps for Young Kids
Final Thoughts On These Educational TV Shows & Movies for Kids
At the end of the day, screens are simply a tool. When used thoughtfully, they can introduce kids to new ideas, spark questions, and reinforce what they’re already learning about the world. The shows and movies on this list have become favorites in our home because they combine entertainment with meaningful learning. If you’re looking for screen time that feels a little more productive—and a lot less chaotic—these educational picks are a great place to start.
Kayla is the content creator over at motviationformom.com. She is a wife and mother who loves to share all of the tips, tricks, and life lessons that she has learned over the years with all of her readers. Her primary focus is on children’s education, motherhood, and healthy family relationships!
