I know that screen time for toddlers and preschoolers can create big emotions all around. Not just for the kiddos but for the adults! There is a lot of guilt surrounding the “how much” and the “whats” of screen time. Each family will need to decide what is right for them and where their comfort level is.
I personally am OK with some show time each day as I’m making dinner, and a large portion of the time we are on an airplane. 😉 Our screen time philosophy on road trips is more nuanced, you can read about it here.
Basically, I’m basing this list of shows on my own personal experiences with my 3 children (currently ages 7, 5, and 2.5). And also on tons of conversations with friends who also have kids these ages!
These are the top shows that I am great with my toddlers and preschoolers watching. I think these are 5 excellent shows for toddlers and preschoolers, and I’ll tell you why below!
P.S. This list is NOT comprehensive though! There are other great ones out there, too! I go into much more depth in this post discussing what makes a show good or bad for toddlers and preschoolers. That’s a great guide if you are on the fence about a certain show!
Let’s get started!
Daniel Tiger
First up- Daniel Tiger! Parents can’t get enough of Daniel Tiger. Perhaps it’s the callbacks to the original Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood, which brings nostalgia from many of our childhoods.
The catchy songs promote emotional intelligence (and also get stuck in your head, you’ve been warned). There’s so much GREAT modeling of healthy responses to conflict in here.
What’s not to love?
Read about the rave reviews it receives on Common Sense Media.
Currently streaming on PBSKids or Prime Video (Season 1).
Bluey
Second on our list is the new and popular Bluey! This is another parent favorite. This show is unique in that it features 8 minute episodes. This is a GREAT length of time, and gives more options for how long total to watch in one sitting.
The simple but poignant storylines ring true to life, the delightful music, the Australian accents, and the pastel color palette combine to make this one appealing show for all.
Perhaps the only downside I’ve found in my home (and discussed with my friends) is that the parents on Bluey seem to have an unending supply of time to pretend play with their children. This may lead to unrealistic expectations in their own life and subsequent disappointment. 😉
Read the reviews on Common Sense Media!
Currently streaming on Disney+.
Curious George
Third- Curious George! So, admittedly this is a little controversial. I have some friends that don’t care for the Curious George books & shows. Why, you ask?
The argument is that George displays terrible behavior, and then basically gets a small correction or potentially even congratulated for the messes he makes. I mean, it’s a valid point.
BUT! George is so earnest. He tries so hard! I think it’s really valuable for kids to see someone trying to do their best and making mistakes along the way.
This show also puts a big emphasis on cause/effect, physical laws of the universe, and learning about the world around through trial & error. My kids always end the show wanting to create some system or build some creation. I call that a major win!
Currently streaming on PBSKids, PeacockTV or Hulu.
Mickey Mouse Clubhouse
Fourth up on our list is Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. I’m guessing this is the other show on this list that could potentially be controversial. Maybe I just drink the Disney Koolaid, or maybe there’s more to it. Or both?? 😉
Here’s my claim for why it’s an excellent show for toddlers:
- Throughout the show, Mickey & the gang count often, promoting early math skills.
2. The characters also “break the fourth wall” and do the thing where they ask a question to the viewer and wait for them to respond. My kids actually do think about an answer, and then respond! I like that it’s a little more interactive and a little less passive in that way.
3. There’s a lot of music involved! There are familiar and classic nursery rhymes included, which is wonderful for literacy skills and brain development.
4. The characters work together to help each other with their problems.
Read more about the show’s overall 4 star review on Common Sense Media.
Currently available on Disney+.
Octonauts
Last but not least, Octonauts! This show is more on the preschooler end of things rather than young toddlers, I’d say– although my two year old daughter will easily sit through one of these and enjoy it.
This theme music was always playing at the COEX Aquarium in Seoul (one of the amazing things to do with kids there!) when we used to have a membership there, so I feel like I can still hear it in my sleep at times.
If you have a child that loves animals, this series is for you!
It’s really so well done. The “Octonauts” team work together (each relying on their special skill set) to EXPLORE! RESCUE! PROTECT! At the end of every episode they show actual footage of the animal they learned about that episode and share a few facts.
Worried your kiddo won’t be interested in the ocean? Don’t worry! They also have a sister series called Above & Beyond where they explore on land, too.
Currently available on Netflix & Prime Video.
Your Turn!
Do you agree with this list? What would you add? Is there anything you would change?
I’d love to hear in the comments below!
Cover Image by Alexander Antropov from Pixabay
Read more about how to educate & entertain your kiddos:
HOW TO KNOW IF A TODDLER/PRESCHOOLER SHOW IS “GOOD”
UPDATED! 6 DELIGHTFUL PODCASTS FOR CHILDREN (THAT I LOVE TOO!)
