No matter how you feel about screen time, I like to think that we can agree on watching TV with your kids. I’ve found that sitting down and watching a TV show with your kid can be a great opportunity to bond with them. It can also be a good way to get to their likes and preferences, while simultaneously monitoring what they’re watching (without them realizing it).
Plus, despite having a long list of things to do in summer with kids, sometimes it’s nice to have a chill, laid-back afternoon on the couch. So, today I thought I’d share a round-up of TV shows parents can watch with kids.
What To Watch With Kids For Laidback Bonding Time
There are obviously a ton of options when it comes to TV shows, with numerous streaming services and TV channels to choose from. But trying to find something to watch that everyone in the family will enjoy can feel like an impossible task. To find something to watch with kids, you’ll want to consider the interests you have in common, as well as your child’s age and personal preferences. Of course, it’s always good to try something new, too!
15 Shows To Watch With Kids: Educational and Wholesome
1. Blues Clues & You (TV-G)
Blues Clues & You is a reboot of the beloved series and classic children’s show, Blues Clues. It is super interactive and invites your kiddos to join Josh and his trusty canine companion, Blue, as they solve puzzles and learn through play! It’s a great show for preschoolers who are eager to learn and explore with curiosity.
2. Bluey (TV-G)
Bluey is a very charming Australian TV series that follows the life of a Blue Heeler puppy and her family. In this series, Bluey and her family navigate imaginative games and really important life lessons that will resonate with children and parents alike. It has a huge focus on empathy, creativity, emotional intelligence, and relatable moments. I’m sure we could all stand to learn a thing or two from this heartwarming show.
3. Brainchild (TV-G)
Brainchild is a fantastic educational show for kids of all ages, although it’s particularly suited to kids ages 8 and up. In this Netflix show, you and your kids will explore the topics of science, psychology, and how our brain works. It’s a fun and entertaining way to help kids understand the world around them. Plus, it sparks curiosity and conversation among the whole family.
4. Tiny World (TV-G)
Tiny World is easily the most visually remarkable show on this list. This Apple TV series is dedicated to the smallest creatures that often go unnoticed, and their incredibly tiny world. Parents will probably recognize the voice of the narrator, Paul Rudd, as he takes us into the secret lives of tiny animals. Science-loving kids and parents will adore this show!
5. Avatar: The Last Airbender (TV-Y7)
Avatar: The Last Airbender is an action-packed series following Aang, the Last Airbender, as he comes to terms with his role in the expansive world around him. You’ll be enthralled and entertained as he masters the elements in an effort to bring balance to the world. Together with your child, you’ll learn about friendship, courage, and destiny. This is one show you definitely don’t want to miss!
6. Mira, Royal Detective (TV-Y7)
Mira, Royal Detective is an animated Disney show that wonderfully celebrates South Asian culture while teaching problem-solving and teamwork in a way that kids and adults will enjoy. You’ll follow Mira as she navigates the magical land of Jalpur. Mira is a brave and clever detective who, with the help of her friends, goes on adventures and solves mysteries. This is a great show to watch with younger kids!
7. Fuller House (TV-PG)
Like another show I included further down this list, Fuller House is an updated spin on a classic show. You’ll recognize many of the characters from the original show, Full House. This family sitcom follows the next generation of the Tanner family as they navigate many of the same trials and tribulations of life at different ages. There are more than enough heartwarming moments, so cuddle up with your little one and check out Fuller House.
8. Is It Cake? (TV-PG)
Is it cake? Is it an everyday item? Watch this wicked show with your little ones and find out! Is It Cake? is a really fun and family-friendly competition show. In it, bakers endeavor to create cakes that look like normal, everyday objects. It’s a really sweet and surprising treat for kids and adults who love a little kitchen magic! You can spend your night (or morning) guessing what’s cake and what’s a normal item!
9. Floor Is Lava (TV-PG)
For tons of fun right in your living room, turn on Floor Is Lava! In this Netflix show, teams compete by making their way through rooms flooded with “lava,” but here’s the fun part: they have to use chairs, curtains, chandeliers, and more to escape. This show is not only fun to watch, but it’ll inspire you to make your own Floor Is Lava course for your family!
10. The Mysterious Benedict Society (TV-PG)
If your family enjoys mystery and adventure, check out The Mysterious Benedict Society, a family-friendly show based on the mega-popular book series. You’ll follow gifted orphans Reynie, Kate, Sticky, and Constance as they try to save the world. With fun characters and more than enough fun to entertain curious minds of all ages, you’ll love watching to find out whether their mission will be successful.
11. Just Add Magic (TV-Y)
Another TV series based on a popular book series, Just Add Magic is a wholesome show about three tween friends who discover a magical cookbook. You’ll watch as they use the recipes to solve mysteries and go on adventures. This show is perfect for parents to watch with tweens, as the stars are prime examples of respectful kids using the power of friendship to navigate every unexpected twist the cookbook throws their way.
12. A Series Of Unfortunate Events (TV-PG)
I’ve talked about A Series of Unfortunate Events before, as it’s also one of the best Netflix shows for kids, but this show is definitely worth mentioning again. Also based on a popular book series, A Series of Unfortunate Events mixes mystery, danger, and unexpected twists as you follow the Baudelaire orphans’ attempts to outsmart the quirky Count Olaf. It’s a gripping show that tweens and young teens, as well as adults, will enjoy.
13. Lego Masters (TV-G)
We’re big fans of all things Lego around here, so Lego Masters is a show we really enjoy watching as a family. Even if you’re not super into Lego, you can’t help but be totally mesmerized by the incredible Lego masterpieces each team creates every episode. This show is fun, and entertaining, and definitely sparks creativity in kids and adults alike.
14. American Ninja Warrior (TV-PG)
American Ninja Warrior is the kind of “edge of your seat” show you can watch with the entire family. There’s something super thrilling about watching competitors run, jump, and swing their way through the obstacle course, but fair warning, it won’t be long until your kids are begging to create their own ANW course!
15. Cobra Kai (TV-14)
Regardless of whether you were a fan of The Karate Kid in the 80s, Cobra Kai is a show for the whole family that certainly won’t disappoint. This series is set decades after the original Karate Kid films, but the rivalry between Johnny Lawrence and Daniel LaRusso is far from over. With a new generation of competition, there’s no shortage of action. I’d say this show is best suited to older kids.
Which show are you most excited to watch with your kids?
See, not all screen time is bad! These shows are great for when you’re looking for a great way to spend a laid-back afternoon with your kids.
Now, it’s just up to you to decide which show to turn on!
For more things to do with kids, check out my post 15 Family Things to do in Orange County!
