35 Best Educational Shows for Kids (Parent-Approved Picks)
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Finding screen time you actually feel good about can be a challenge. As a homeschool mom of four, I’ve always looked for educational shows for kids that entertain while also teaching valuable concepts.
While we don’t watch a ton of television in our home, there are definitely days when a high-quality educational program can be a lifesaver. Whether you’re looking for science shows, literacy programs, math adventures, or character-building stories, this list is packed with family favorites that encourage learning through fun.
Educational television isn’t meant to replace hands-on experiences, books, or conversations. But the right shows can spark curiosity, reinforce concepts, and introduce children to new ideas they might not otherwise encounter.
Here are some of our favorite educational shows for kids!
Science and Nature Educational Shows for Kids
Sid the Science Kid: A preschool favorite that encourages children to ask questions and investigate the world around them through simple scientific concepts and experiments.
Wild Kratts: One of our all-time favorites! Join Chris and Martin Kratt as they explore animal adaptations, habitats, and fascinating creatures from around the world.
Bill Nye the Science Guy: A classic educational show that makes science engaging and memorable for elementary-aged kids.
The Magic School Bus: Ms. Frizzle takes students on unforgettable field trips inside the human body, into space, and through countless science adventures.
Dinosaur Train: Combines paleontology and natural history with fun dinosaur facts and adventures.
The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That!: Based on the beloved Dr. Seuss character, this series introduces children to scientific thinking and exploration.
Zoboomafoo: The Kratt brothers’ original animal show featuring fascinating creatures and plenty of laughs.
Beakman’s World: A quirky and entertaining science show that older kids especially enjoy.
The Jeff Corwin Experience: Perfect for animal lovers who want to learn more about wildlife conservation and ecosystems.
Reading and Literacy Shows
Super Why!: A wonderful preschool literacy show that uses fairy tales to teach letter recognition, spelling, and reading comprehension.
Between the Lions: Focused on building strong reading skills through songs, stories, and memorable characters.
Reading Rainbow: Hosted by LeVar Burton, this beloved classic encourages a lifelong love of books and reading.
WordWorld: Animated characters built from letters help young learners develop early literacy skills.
Martha Speaks: Vocabulary comes alive as Martha the dog introduces children to new words in everyday situations.
The Electric Company: A fast-paced literacy show designed to strengthen reading skills in elementary-aged children.
Wishbone: A charming Jack Russell Terrier introduces children to classic literature through imaginative storytelling.
Math Educational Shows for Kids
Team Umizoomi: This colorful preschool series helps children build foundational math skills through problem-solving adventures.
Cyberchase: Older elementary students can strengthen math and logic skills while following exciting animated storylines.
Monster Math Squad: Â Math concepts such as counting, sorting, and measurement are woven into playful adventures.
History and Geography Shows
Liberty’s Kids: A fantastic introduction to American history, focusing on the events and people of the Revolutionary War era.
Carmen Sandiego: Kids can explore geography, cultures, and world landmarks while solving mysteries with Carmen.
Postcards from Buster: Â Travel alongside Buster as he visits children and families across the United States and around the world.
Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum: Historical figures come to life as children learn important lessons from famous people throughout history.
Social Skills and Character Development
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: Inspired by Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, this show teaches emotional intelligence, kindness, and practical life skills.
Sesame Street: Generations of children have learned letters, numbers, and important social lessons from Sesame Street.
Adventures from the Book of Virtues: Timeless stories teach values such as honesty, courage, perseverance, and responsibility.
It’s a Big Big World: A gentle preschool show focused on friendship, cooperation, and curiosity about nature.
Language and Communication Shows
Signing Time: Children and adults alike can learn American Sign Language through songs and engaging lessons.
LeapFrog Learning Videos: Â These educational favorites reinforce early reading and phonics concepts.
Rock ‘N Learn: Known for educational videos covering everything from multiplication facts to foreign languages, these programs make learning fun through music.
More Great Educational Shows for Kids
Little Einsteins: Introduces children to classical music, famous works of art, and problem-solving adventures.
Go Diego Go!: Â Encourages environmental awareness while introducing Spanish vocabulary and animal facts.
WordGirl: An older elementary favorite that combines humor with strong vocabulary instruction.
Fetch! With Ruff Ruffman: A creative game-show format that incorporates science and engineering challenges.
Signing Time: An excellent resource for introducing sign language to young learners.
Rachel and the TreeSchoolers: Â Teaches social-emotional skills, health concepts, and positive character traits.
Schoolhouse Rock: Â Catchy songs help kids remember concepts related to grammar, history, science, and math.
Odd Squad: An entertaining blend of mystery and mathematics designed for elementary-aged children.
StoryBots: Clever songs and engaging characters answer children’s biggest questions about how the world works.
Ada Twist, Scientist: Inspired by the popular book series, Ada encourages curiosity, creativity, and scientific thinking.
How We Use Educational Shows in Our Homeschool
As homeschoolers, we’ve often used educational shows to supplement topics we are studying, provide a quiet activity on sick days, or simply offer mom a much-needed break.
Educational television doesn’t replace hands-on learning, but it can be a valuable tool when used intentionally. Many of these programs have inspired deeper learning in our home through books, crafts, science experiments, and discussions.
Educational Shows Are Just One Tool
Children learn best through a variety of experiences—reading, playing, creating, exploring outdoors, and spending time with people they love.
When chosen thoughtfully, educational shows can become another meaningful part of that learning journey.
What are your family’s favorite educational shows for kids? I’d love to hear your recommendations in the comments!
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I think I would like the learning Spanish movie.
this looks awesome! my girls would love it!
I’d be interested in the language one, since my girls would watch the Mandarin Chinese.
My boys would love the Science collection.
My girl was interested in Writing Strategies, Human Body, all the Math & Science.
Oceans and Spiders & Insects
We’d like the language ones either Spanish or Chinese.
Language. I would love for my kids to learn another language.