As parents, we know the importance of limiting screen time, especially for our littlest ones. But we also recognize that sometimes we may want to find shows that will occasionally entertain our kids. Shows that are educational, but also calm and less stimulating for our kids. Here are our favorite 18 lower stimulation and educational shows currently streaming:
Nature and Animal Exploration
- Peep and the Big Wide World (PBS Kids)
Follow Peep, Chirp, and Quack as they explore the wonders of the world around them. - Puffin Rock (Netflix)
A beautifully animated series about a young puffin named Oona and her little brother Baba as they explore their island home. - Tumble Leaf (Amazon Prime)
Join Fig the fox as he discovers nature and science through play and exploration in a whimsical, slow-paced world. - Lucas the Spider (Netflix)
Lucas the Spider is an animated character known for his big, expressive eyes and innocent demeanor. Designed to challenge common arachnophobia, Lucas portrays spiders as cute and lovable rather than scary. His delightful adventures and positive messages have made him beloved by both children and adults. - Masha and the Bear (Netflix, Amazon Prime)
An animated series featuring the adventures of a spirited little girl named Masha and her gentle bear friend. The show combines humor and heartwarming stories, highlighting themes of friendship and problem-solving. - Little Bear (Amazon Prime, Paramount+)
Follow Little Bear and his friends in the forest as they learn about the world around them in a calm, soothing manner.
Gentle Learning and Fun
- Bluey (Disney+, Hulu)
A delightful Australian series featuring a blue heeler puppy named Bluey and her family, offering gentle life lessons through play. - Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood (PBS Kids, Amazon Prime, Hulu)
Based on the legacy of Mister Rogers, this show teaches social and emotional skills through the eyes of Daniel Tiger. - Trash Truck (Netflix)
Join Hank, a six-year-old boy, and his best friend, a giant Trash Truck, as they embark on gentle adventures that celebrate friendship and imagination.
Creative and Artistic Adventures
- Creative Galaxy (Amazon Prime)
An interactive art adventure series where Arty and his sidekick Epiphany solve problems with creative thinking and crafts. - Mister Rogers' Neighborhood (PBS Kids, Amazon Prime, Hulu)
A timeless classic where Fred Rogers gently teaches children about the world and emotions through kind and thoughtful conversations. - Sarah & Duck (Youtube)
Enjoy the quirky and calm adventures of Sarah, a seven-year-old girl, and her best friend, Duck, as they explore the world with curiosity and imagination. - Pocoyo (Netflix, Amazon Prime)
A fun and educational show that follows the adventures of Pocoyo and his friends in a vibrant, minimalist world, focusing on discovery and learning.
Early STEM
- Octonauts (Netflix)
Dive into underwater exploration and learn about marine biology with Captain Barnacles and his crew of adventurous animals. - Sid the Science Kid (PBS Kids, Amazon Prime)
Join Sid and his friends as they explore everyday science concepts in a fun and easy-to-understand way. - Numberblocks (Netflix, Amazon Prime)
An animated educational series that introduces young children to the world of numbers and mathematics through colorful, block-shaped characters. Each Numberblock represents a specific number, and they embark on fun adventures that teach counting, addition, subtraction, and other math concepts in an engaging way. With its catchy songs and creative storytelling, Numberblocks makes learning math enjoyable for kids.
Classic Stories and Adventures
- StoryBots (Netflix)
The StoryBots answer children's biggest questions through fun songs and animations, making learning fun and engaging. - Curious George (PBS Kids, Hulu, Peacock)
is an animated series following the adventures of a mischievous and curious monkey named George and his friend, The Man with the Yellow Hat. Known for its educational content and charming storytelling, the show engages children with George's playful antics and learning experiences.
