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The Best Kids Shows on Netflix to Watch in 2026

written by REBECCA SMITH

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The Best Kids Shows on Netflix to Watch in 2026
Source: Courtesy of Netflix
The Best Kids Shows on Netflix to Watch in 2026
Source: Courtesy of Netflix

We know that screen time can be a sensitive topic for parents of littles. Choosing what to let your kiddos watch, and for how long, can be stressful and confusing. But kids shows on Netflix really are the gold standard. For toddlers and preschoolers, 20- to 30-minute episodes of series like The Magic School Bus and Sesame Street are perfect for a pre-bedtime wind-down. And for older kids and teenagers, Netflix has no shortage of comedies and dramas that tackle the ups and downs of growing up. Whatever kind of TV shows your kids prefer, there is a series on this list for them.

And ever since Stranger Things premiered in 2016 (and totally changed my life), I’ve been a loyal Netflix subscriber. Of all the streaming services out there, it’s definitely the one I’m least willing to part with. Not only does it have a vast library of family-friendly movies, but the platform’s growing list of television series—original and otherwise—is excellent, family-centered entertainment. Whenever I’m looking for something new to watch before bed, or a show to binge with my family, I go straight to the Netflix television library.

If you (or your kiddos) are on the hunt for kids shows to watch, keep reading for the best shows for kids on Netflix to watch as a family, sorted by age.

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In this article
1 Best Netflix Shows for Toddlers (Ages 2–4)
2 Best Netflix Shows for Preschoolers (Ages 4–6)
3 Best Netflix Shows for Kids (Ages 7–9)
4 Best Netflix Shows for Tweens (Ages 10–12)
5 Best Netflix Shows for Teens (Ages 13+)
6 How to Choose the Right Netflix Show for Your Child
7 FAQs About Netflix Kids’ Shows

Best Netflix Shows for Toddlers (Ages 2–4)

These Netflix shows are colorful, engaging for young viewers, and feature short episodes that tackle educational topics. The simple storylines and familiar characters make these ideal for toddlers.

Gabby’s Dollhouse

Rated: TV-Y | 13 seasons | Run Time: 24m

Join kitty enthusiast Gabby and her sidekick Pandy Paws as they team up for a series of animated adventures! Gabby’s Dollhouse is a huge phenomenon, even spawning a live-action film in 2025. And if your little one can’t get enough, don’t fret—Season 14 is finally here, and we’re finally meeting Gabby’s younger sister, Doozie!

gabby's dollhouse season 14 netflix
Source: Courtesy of Netflix

Ada Twist, Scientist

Rated: TV-Y | 4 seasons | Run Time: 29m

Ada Twist is a pint-sized scientist with big questions. With the help of her two best friends, she’ll soon discover the truth about the world around her. For any kiddos feeling extra curious about the natural world and all of its secrets, this is the perfect choice.

Sesame Street

Rated: TV-Y | 3 seasons | Run Time: 30m

Sesame Street is the kind of kids’ series that never gets old. Luckily, on Netflix, you can find 100+ episodes and Sesame Street specials in their library to enjoy with your little ones. They even have the newly released Volume 3, as well as Sesame Street Selects and My Sesame Street Friends: My Abby.

Ask the Storybots

Rated: TV-Y | 3 seasons | Run Time: 24m

Another great show for little ones with lots of curiosity, these five little inquisitive creatures set out to track down answers to some major questions—like how night happens or why we need to wash our hair.

Super Monsters

Rated: TV-Y | 3 seasons | Run Time: 23m

In this adorable and entertaining animated series, four preschoolers, whose parents also happen to be the most famous monsters in the world, prepare for kindergarten while navigating their new special powers.

More Netflix Shows for Toddlers

Best Netflix Shows for Preschoolers (Ages 4–6)

For younger kiddos who still need something simple, engaging, and low-stimulation—but perhaps with a little more plot—these kid-friendly TV shows are perfect. They strike just the right balance between being entertaining and age-appropriate.

The Magic School Bus Rides Again

Rated: TV-Y | 2 seasons | Run Time: 25m

Revisit a beloved franchise with your little ones in The Magic School Bus Netflix reboot! This time, Ms. Frizzle’s kid sister, Fiona, is taking the wheel and leading a new group of kids through educational adventures.

Emily’s Wonder Lab

Rated: TV-Y | 10 episodes | Run Time: 14m

Science-loving host Emily Calandrelli brings young viewers into a world of fun and engaging STEAM activities. Each episode teaches a new idea and is sure to make your kiddos more curious at school.

Danny Go!

Rated: TV-Y | 2 seasons | Run Time: 30m

This educational series features Danny Go’s most popular videos, from dance-alongs to learning games like “Red Light, Green Light” and “The Floor is Lava.” Enjoy this kid-favorite activity with Season 2—now streaming!

danny go netflix shows for kids
Source: NETFLIX © 2026

Spirit Rangers

Rated: TV-Y | 3 seasons | Run Time: 29m

In this exciting series, three Native American siblings take on the secret role of “Spirit Ranger” to protect the national park they call home. To teach little ones about respecting the environment and valuing all living things, this is a great choice.

Beat Bugs

Rated: TV-Y | 3 seasons | Run Time: 24m

In this musical series, five bugs learn about the world around them using five songs made famous by none other than The Beatles. For a kiddo who loves music, make sure to try this one out.

More Netflix Shows for Preschoolers

Best Netflix Shows for Kids (Ages 7–9)

This is the age when kids really start to have fun with the television they’re watching, and parents can enjoy their shows with them! From action-packed adventure series to fun TV shorts, these shows should be added to your family watch list ASAP.

Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous

Rated: TV-PG | 5 seasons | Run Time: 24m

Another modern ode to a franchise loved by multiple generations. In this animated series, five teens are invited to a camp on Isla Nublar but must band together to survive when dinosaurs escape captivity.

Spy Kids: Mission Critical

Rated: TV-Y7 | 2 seasons | Run Time: 25m

In this animated Spy Kids spin-off of the beloved movies, Juni and Carmen Cortez must battle the evil organization S.W.A.M.P.—but this time, they don’t have their master spy parents to help them. For kiddos who love a blend of humor, adventure, and mystery, this is a great pick.

Pokémon Horizons: The Series—Rising Hope

Rated: TV-Y7 | 4 seasons | Run Time: 22m to 33m

For fans of Pokémon, Liko and Roy return as they investigate a mysterious pink mist harming Pokémon all across the region.

Rising Hope Part 4 will be available to stream on September 18!

pokemon rising hope series netflix shows for kids
Source: NETFLIX © 2024

Mark Rober’s CrunchLabs

Rated: TV-PG | 3 seasons | Run Time: 8m to 23m

In this educational and engaging series, former NASA engineer turned creator Mark Rober tackles some of the biggest scientific questions (and mysteries). Through experiments of every kind, he immerses his viewers and gets them thinking about STEM in a new way. Season 5 of this one-of-a-kind series premiered September 12!

LEGOⓇ ONE PIECE

Rated: TV-Y7 | 2 episodes | Run Time: 30m

This two-part animated LEGO® special hits Netflix on September 29, and you won’t want to miss it! Luffy, Nami, and Usopp embark on a journey through the high seas. For kids who are still too young for the One Piece live-action series, this kid-friendly option is a great choice.

Wonka’s The Golden Ticket: A Competition Series

Rated: Not Yet Rated (TV-PG expected) | 1 season | Run Time: 50m

If your kiddos are fans of the original Roald Dahl novel or the beloved films, Wonka’s The Golden Ticket should be your next family game show obsession. Twelve lucky Golden Ticket winners will step through the gates of Wonka’s chocolate factory and compete in a series of games and competitions. The show arrives on Netflix on September 23 and is sure to be a family favorite.

More Netflix Shows for Kids

dragons race to the edge kids shows on netflix
Source: Dreamworks Animation | Netflix

Best Netflix Shows for Tweens (Ages 10–12)

These picks are ideal for tweens ready for something a little more intense and emotional, while still not pushing into territory parents may be uncomfortable with.

The Baby-Sitter’s Club

Rated: TV-G | 2 seasons | Run Time: 29m

A group of five young girls starts a homegrown babysitting business while also grappling with the typical ups and downs of middle school. For any moms out there who have read Ann M. Martin’s beloved book series, you’ll love this modern update to the series.

Alexa & Katie

Rated: TV-G | 4 seasons | Run Time: 30m

This is an adorable family drama and comedy that viewers of all ages will love. Alexa may be battling cancer, but with her best friend, Katie, at her side, she can face anything—even starting high school.

Note for parents: themes of cancer and severe illness may be intense for some viewers.

A Series of Unfortunate Events

Rated: TV-PG | 3 seasons | Run Time: 40m to 1h

When the three Baudelaire children suddenly lose their parents to a horrible fire, they find themselves stuck in the clutches of the evil Count Olaf, who is desperate to steal their massive fortune.

This series is based on the bestselling book series by Lemony Snicket and—as a lifetime fan of the books—is seriously one of the best page-to-screen adaptations I’ve ever seen (yes, I mean it). For a tween looking for something a little darker and moodier, this is an excellent choice.

Little House on the Prairie

Rated: TV-PG | 8 episodes | Run Time: 50m

In this fresh remake of a beloved classic, the Ingalls family sets off for a fresh start on the Western frontier. If you grew up watching the original Little House on the Prairie series—based on Laura Ingalls Wilder’s bestselling book series—you should absolutely watch this new series with your tween.

kids watching little house on the prairie
Source: Alaina Kaz

Avatar The Last Air Bender

Rated: TV-PG | 2 seasons | Run Time: 60m

A live-action adaptation of the beloved animated series, this fantasy series follows a young boy known as the Avatar who must master the four elements to save a world at war. The story is powerful and moving, perfect for a family watch. And now’s the perfect time to watch it, since Season 2 just came out at the end of June.

More Netflix Shows for Tweens

Best Netflix Shows for Teens (Ages 13+)

These shows feature all the big emotions, drama, and fast-paced action teenagers love, while still avoiding mature, inappropriate themes. For parents who want to watch shows with their kids, these are the best picks on the list!

Stranger Things

Rated: TV-14 | 5 seasons | Run Time: 1h to 2h

Of all the shows on this list, this is by far the closest to my heart. Set in the 1980s in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, the sudden disappearance of a young boy uncovers a government conspiracy, terrifying supernatural forces, and a certain young girl with some surprising powers.

Note for parents: this is a sci-fi, fantasy series with dark themes, high-stakes peril, and gore. Definitely screen the series first and know what your child may be sensitive to. That being said, Stranger Things is seriously amazing and an excellent family watch for parents with tweens and teens. There’s even a new animated spinoff, Stranger Things: Tales From ’85, available to stream now (with a TV-PG rating), with a second season slated for release on September 17, 2026.

XO, Kitty

Rated: TV-14 | 3 seasons | Run Time: 30m

For any teenagers who binged all of the To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before movies, this should be their next watch. The series follows Kitty Song Covey—Lara Jean’s younger sister—as she heads to Korean International School of Seoul (K.I.S.S) for her junior year to learn about her culture and feel closer to her mom. In typical teenage fashion, there’s plenty of romance, drama, and laughs.

Hearstopper

Rated: TV-14 | 3 seasons | Run Time: 30m

Based on the bestselling graphic novel series by Alice Oseman, Heartstopper follows the absolutely adorable love story between Nick Nelson and Charlie Spring, two teenage boys who form an unlikely friendship. The series is a beautiful depiction of young love, coming-of-age, and—most importantly—positive LGBTQ+ representation for tweens and teens who may be watching. There are three seasons of the television series, plus a new movie: Heartstopper Forever.

hearstopper image netflix kids shows
Source: © 2023 Netflix, Inc.

Crew Girl

Rated: TV-14 | 1 season | Run Time: 45m

Your newest teen drama obsession recently premiered on September 10! Crew Girl follows teen rower Teagan Tao as she moves to a small town and joins an elite all-boy rowing team, sparking lots of controversy in her new community.

Wednesday

Rated: TV-14 | 2 seasons | Run Time: 50m

The beloved Addams family returns in this award-winning spin-off following Wednesday Addams and her twisted adventures at Nevermore Academy. Jenna Ortega absolutely shines as Wednesday, and the adult cast is equally impressive.

Note for parents: graphic violence, weapons, and some mature themes are present throughout the series. Be sure to consider what your child may be sensitive to before watching.

More Netflix Shows for Teens

How to Choose the Right Netflix Show for Your Child

Watching shows with your kids can be fun, educational, and a great way to bond, but not all Netflix kids shows are suited for every child. Here’s what parents should keep in mind when choosing a Netflix show for their child to watch:

Check the age ratings

Netflix includes suggested age ratings for all of its titles, from TV-Y (general audience) to TV-PG, TV-14 (best for tweens and teens), and TV-MA (unsuitable for kids). These ratings are a great starting point for parents deciding what is and isn’t appropriate, but keep in mind that every child is different. Consider previewing new shows and accounting for your child’s sensitivity to scary themes, intense action, and emotional moments.

Look out for scary moments and dark themes

Many of these shows feature fast-paced action sequences, dark and emotional plot lines, and scary antagonists. Make sure to pre-screen content before viewing it with your kiddos.

This is especially true for Netflix’s shows for tweens and teens, like Stranger Things and Wednesday. Despite having a TV-PG or TV-14 rating, many of these series feature moments of intense emotion and high-stakes peril. Consider what your child may be sensitive to before choosing a new show.

Use the customizable viewing options

For parents of littles, Netflix has tons of options to make watching with kids as stress-free as possible. These features include:

  • Kids Profiles: limits viewable content to age-appropriate shows and movies; the layout is also simplified and easy to navigate for kiddos who may be selecting their own shows.
  • Audio and subtitles: great for bilingual households, and to encourage increased comprehension!
  • Parental controls: parents can set maturity ratings, block specific titles, lock profiles with a PIN, and access all family viewing history.
stranger things tales of 85 netflix shows for kids
Source: NETFLIX © 2026

FAQs About Netflix Kids’ Shows

What are the most educational Netflix kids’ shows?

There are tons of educational shows for kids on Netflix. For toddlers and preschoolers, shows like Ask the Storybots and Emily’s Wonder Lab blend general knowledge and problem-solving with exciting STEM topics.

For elementary-aged kids, series like The Who Was? Show and Crunch Labs inform young viewers about history and science in a way that is entertaining and memorable.

And for tweens and teens, shows like Alexa & Katie and Heartstopper tackle real and relatable emotional conflict, family issues, and the ups and downs of growing up.

What are the best Netflix shows to watch as a family?

The best Netflix kids shows to watch as a family work across multiple age groups and are crowd-pleasers that even parents can enjoy. These include nostalgic, family-friendly picks like Fuller House and The Baby-Sitter’s Club, as well as action-packed, animated favorites like Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous and Scooby-Doo!

As always, consider the ages of your kiddos, Netflix’s provided age ratings, and any sensitivities your little ones may have to intense, action-based sequences or emotional themes.

Are Netflix originals better than licensed shows?

Netflix’s entertainment library is made up of both original series created only for Netflix and licensed content from other production companies that cycle on and off the platform. While there is plenty of excellent licensed content to enjoy—classic Nickelodeon shows like Victorious and iCarly—there is also a surplus of original Netflix series for kids to enjoy. The bonus about these shows is that kids and parents don’t have to worry about them leaving the platform. Netflix has sole rights to all content. 

Some of our favorite Netflix original series include Ada Twist, Scientist, and Gabby’s Dollhouse for toddlers and preschoolers. For older kids and teenagers, we recommend A Series of Unfortunate Events and Wednesday.

How often does Netflix add new kids’ content?

Netflix consistently adds new kids and family content on a weekly basis through the addition of new licensed content to the platform, as well as through regular releases of new kid-friendly animated and live-action series. Significant additions typically happen at the start of the month, as well as mid-month. 

Worried about missing the release of a new show? This article will be regularly updated with Netflix’s newest kids and family television shows. Make sure to save it and check back!

Rebecca Smith
ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Rebecca Smith, Editorial Assistant

As an Editorial Assistant, Rebecca works with The Everymom team on updating existing content, photo sourcing, pitching original articles, and more. She’s passionate about creating authentic and diverse online content and is thrilled to help women of all ages feel represented.

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