How often does your little one come up to you with the request to watch television? Perhaps a few times a day, right? Well, you can’t blame them seeing as we’re all cooped up in our homes and there isn’t much physical activity for them.
But what if we told you it is a not a bad idea to allow your kids to watch a bit of telly, especially if you catch the best educational kids TV shows. It’ll not only benefit them to learn something new, but it will also be worth the screen time!
For your convenience, we have curated a list of 15 of the best educational kids TV shows that cater to children of all ages, from preschoolers to teenagers.
15 Educational Kids TV Shows To Watch
Image source: iStock
Educational Kids TV Shows For Preschoolers And Toddlers (2 to 4-years-old)
-
Dog Loves Books
Who can watch: 2 yrs +
Plot: This is the story of a dog and a pug who run a book shop together. This dog can talk and he loves everything about books. Each episode begins with the dog reading a well-known book along with his friend, the pug; and they get teleported into the world of the story. Using familiar characters, Dog Loves Books provides informative content to preschoolers and the toddlers.
Educational USP: Your kids can learn classic stories and fairy tales. The cartoon also encourages a habit of reading.
Where to watch it: Starhub Channel 407 (CBeebies).
-
Word Party
Who can watch: 2 yrs +
Plot: Say hi to Bailey, Franny, Kip and Lulu. These cute diaper-wearing baby animals will teach your little one vocabulary through engaging songs and colourful scenes.
Educational USP: In addition to vocabulary building, the show also teaches kids the values of friendship and empathy.
Where to watch it: Netflix
-
The Stinky & Dirty Show
Screengrab courtesy: Amazon
Who can watch: 2yrs +
Plot: Stinky is the garbage truck and Dirty is the backhoe loader, and they are both best friends. Together, they head out for lots of adventures. The best buddies also find themselves in some strange situations and try to find resourceful solutions to their problems.
Educational USP: Your kids will get learn all about developing a ‘can-do’ attitude. It sends across the message of perseverance and confidence. Plus, there are many episodes that highlight problem-solving skills and how people can working together as a team.
Where to watch it: Amazon Prime Video
-
lama Llama
Who can watch: 3 yrs +
Plot: It captures the adventures of Llama Llama and his mother, Mama Llama. It is an animated show that shows a single mum as the lead parent. The beloved children’s book character Llama Llama actually comes to life in this heartwarming series which teaches us all about family and friendship.
Educational USP: Teaches qualities like empathy, kindness, and respect.
Where to watch it: Kids Netflix
-
The Magic School Bus Rides Again
Screengrab courtesy: Netflix
Who can watch: 4 yrs old +
Plot: It is a revamped animated version of the ’90s series The Magic School Bus. The story revolved around Ms. Frizzle’s younger sister and her students who together go on several magical adventures in their high-tech school bus. During the process, they learn about the wonders of science across various locations and time periods.
Educational USP: Each episode focuses on a scientific topic (like gravity). It is taught in a fun way alongside the class who go on field trips.
Where to watch it: Netflix
Educational Kids TV Shows For Those Aged 5 Years And Above
-
If I Were An Animal
Who can watch: 5 yrs+
Plot: This TV show features different species of animals growing into adulthood. It is a beautiful story of two curious kids: Emma and her big brother, Tim. They like to observe different animals as they make their way through life’s various milestones, from birth to adulthood.
Educational USP: It makes a great watch for kids and helps them learn about different animal species and how they grow. (Note, your kids can get teary-eyed at scenes showing animals surviving and killing each other.)
Where to watch it: Netflix
-
Tiny World
Who can watch: 5yrs+
Plot: This nature documentary features a series of adorable ‘tiny’ animals. The new camera technology shows the world as seen through these tiny creatures.
Educational USP: Your kids will love the miniature monkeys and other bug-sized mammals. There are also some interesting scenes about survival.
Where to watch it: Apple TV+
-
Our Planet
Who can watch: 6yrs+
Plot: It is a beautiful documentary series that urges little viewers to think about how humans are endangering nature and marine life. There are some prey hunting scenes, so sensitive viewers should take note of it.
Educational USP: Through the series, you can experience the planet’s natural beauty and also see how climate changes impact all living creatures.
Where to watch it: Netflix
-
Carmen Sandiego
Who can watch: 6yrs +
Plot: Carmen is an infamous thief. She is projected as a strong, and empowering female role model, making it a interesting watch for boys and girls, alike. Carmen Sandiego is a remake of the popular 1990’s show. In season 1, Carmen is portrayed as a modern-day Robin Hood, who travels around the globe, stealing from V.I.L.E. and giving back to the victims.
Educational USP: The highlight of this show is the strategic thinking in Carmen’s mission of good over evil.
Where to watch it: Netflix
-
The Blue Planet on Kids Netflix
Who can watch: 7 yrs+
Plot: It is a much-watched BBC series for the next generation. The beautiful show delves into the wonders of nature. There are a few hunting scenes since it is a nature’s show. So if you have kids younger than the recommended age or those that may be sensitive to such scene, do take note.
Educational USP: Your kids can have a fascinating look at nature, wildlife, and environmental issues that continue to impact us.
Where to watch it: Netflix
Educational Kids TV Show For Older Kids Aged 8 Years And Above
-
Big Shot
Who can watch: 8+
Plot: It is a great family-friendly show to watch with preteens. The story revolves around a men’s basketball coach who gets kicked out for bad behaviour. But the only job he can find is coaching at an elite private girl’s school. The story revolves around the ways he manages his coaching style and also his temper.
Educational USP: There are a lot of positive messages about resilience and teamwork.
Where to watch it: Disney+
-
Bill Nye Saves the World
Who can watch: 9 yrs+
Plot: Bill Nye, brings experts and famous guests to his lab for a fun-filled talk show. They explore scientific issues including climate change, video games, and space travel.
Educational USP: Bill Nye Saves the World looks at topics from a scientific point of view. It refutes myths and claims that rebuke science. As Bill tries to focus on the truth, he also reminds the viewers that it is not magic, it is science.
Where to watch it: Netflix
-
A Series of Unfortunate Events (Season 1)
Who can watch: 10-12 yrs +
Plot: This show is about the tragic tale of the Baudelaire orphans – Violet, Klaus, and Sunny – whose evil uncle Count Olaf is greedy and wants to get his hands on their inheritance.
Educational USP: It teaches a very important lesson- to trust your instincts, even if you are a kid.
Where to watch it: Netflix
-
Tales By Light
Who can watch: 10 yrs+
Plot: Renowned photographers head to the far-flung locales, from a fire rite in the Himalayas to watching brown bears in the rivers of Alaska. It is a visual treat for those who wish to explore and see the world. You will also get to see what goes behind capturing a powerful image.
Educational USP: Your kid will be able to learn about the geographical and cultural insights of different regions.
Where to watch it: Netflix
-
The Social Dilemma
Screengrab courtesy: Netflix
Who can watch: 13+
Plot: It is one of the most popular educational kids TV shows. This TV documentary follows tech experts from Silicon Valley who sound the alarm on the dangerous impact of social networking. It is a must-watch for teenagers as it discusses how social media sites are watching our online behaviour to produce data that can be used for commercial purposes. Note: There is mention of teen suicide and self-harm in the episodes.
Educational USP: It is highly recommended for kids and even parents who have social media accounts. It shares some practical tips on how you can delete unnecessary apps so your data isn’t collected and turn off all notifications that aren’t timely.
Where to watch it: Netflix
According to a study done by the American Academy of Pediatrics, TV viewing can greatly influence a child’s behaviour, health habits, school performance and concepts of gender. So parents, do take note and use screen time wisely.
ALSO READ:
How Do You Choose the Best Preschool Tv Shows? Don’t Forget These 7 Reminders!
8 Educational TV Shows Your Preschooler Should Be Watching