Best Out of the Box TV Shows Your Kids Should Be Watching Right Now
Sometimes it’s hard to choose what to watch just because there are too many options- that’s where I come in-- let me narrow it down for you. I’ve mentioned this before, but in order to achieve true quality time, try to watch something TOGETHER (at least all the kids together if you need a break)- yes it’s not perfect and there will be some complaining, but learning to compromise a bit is good for everyone.
I actually tested all these shows with my 5 girls (yes I have 5 girls!), aged 1-13. I had them watch a bunch of TV shows as part of their chores (!!!) and give me their real reviews- so all the shows listed here are “kid tested, mother approved.”
STORYBOTS
Netflix
Kids submit questions about a huge array of topics from why people look different to how we catch a cold (explains how viruses spread and how our bodies defend us against them) and then the storybots-- quirky robot characters-- answer the questions using awesome kid-friendly graphics and language geared towards younger children.
BLAZE AND THE MONSTER MACHINES
Nick Jr.
There’s nothing cuter than hearing your kids shouting “velocity,” “friction,” “trajectory,” and “buoyancy,” at the TV screen! Kids get exposed to STEM concepts like these in a fun show about trucks who are constantly solving problems.
EMILY’S WONDER LAB
Netflix
This TV show will even have you dreaming about swimming in a pool of Oobleck. Emily is an Emmy nominated, MIT educated, spunky host who takes cohost kids through a variety of fun experiments while teaching lab safety, and scientific concepts. Emily’s always encouraging to “stay curious and keep exploring!”
Keep those curious minds exploring with this amazing science kit that my kids really enjoyed and Emily Calandrelli’s book series for young readers.
WEIRD BUT TRUE
National Geographic Kids & Disney Plus
Based on the series of Weird but True books! I've always been a fan of the Weird but True! series. They are easy, simple, and teach both you and your kids so many random facts. If you don't have these books already then what are you waiting for? The show's two quirky hosts take you on a journey exploring topics ranging from photography and germs to dinosaurs and the solar system. They explore the topic in detail and present fun, weird but true facts about the given topic.
MASTERCHEF JUNIOR
Fox
There are many kids cooking TV shows, but this one is by far the best one to watch. Kids ages 8-13 compete in cooking challenges that are spiced up with mystery box ingredients. The mini chefs are so talented and totally inspirational for kids of all ages at home. What these young kids can come up with is amazing and seeing any of them lose is so sad!
Once you’re done and you kids have caught the cooking bug, get them the MasterChef Junior cooking kit, then sign them up for Raddish Kids and use DISCOUNT CODE 3HN6TN for $20 off their 6 month subscription. If you have an aspiring baker, then give them the gift of BAKETIVITY! Use DISCOUNT CODE CAMPLISA for 12% off.
SHARK TANK
ABC
This is a favorite in my household right now. Shark Tank really showcases amazing products, novelty, sparks creativity and imagination, and can open your kids’ entrepreneurial minds. Entrepreneurs from all different backgrounds explain their products and try to get a “shark” to invest in their company.
Some amazing products that we have actually bought are: Scrub daddy sponges and the Comfy Dream one size fits on blanket, perfect for snuggling into while watching Shark Tank!
OLDIES BUT GOODIES
Go old school with Full House (Hulu) or Saved by the Bell (Prime Video), or even Fresh Prince of Bel Air (HBO MAX).
I am sure you’ve noticed, based on my recommendations, that I am a huge fan of reminiscing about my favorite things from childhood, and sharing them with my kids, whether it’s for games, movies (Click here to see the list I compiled) or tv shows. There is something truly special about watching shows you cherished so much as a kid with your children.
We’ve all been there.
We just can’t entertain anymore no matter how many awesome activities you have up your sleeve, or you just need some alone time. Watching TV has so many benefits. It's a way to relax & just unwind. You can just sit & watch without having to overthink anything and you might even learn something along the way. Whether it’s just your kids watching the show or you watching along with them, put all other electronics away, grab a yummy snack (like my fave popcorn right now) and focus on this one thing. Have fun and enjoy the moment!
Have you seen these shows? I’d love to hear from you! Let me know if there are any specific topics you’d like me to explore even further.