20 Extremely Educational TV Shows for Kids to Keep Them Engaged

Here is a list of 20 extremely educational TV shows for kids. If you want your children to watch television that will make them smarter, then check out this list!


Do you ever have a sick day? Or at least, you need to take a mental health day? But you don’t want your kids to just watch television all day and rot out their brains?

Hey, y’all, Tiffany here.

We run into that quite frequently in our household. I have Crohn’s disease, fibromyalgia, arthritis, and a host of other health issues – some days are just difficult!

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Why We Need Educational TV Shows for Kids

In our home, we do screen-free activities first but I don’t always have the energy for that. We all hate the idea of sticking our kids in front of the TV, but sometimes it’s just necessary. For some of us, it’s more necessary than others.

I have to admit, though. I’m a bit of a snob when it comes to television shows. I think it has to do with how I was raised. At my home (I’m the oldest of 10 kids), we were never allowed to watch TV or movies on a school night. 

Period.

On Saturdays, we could watch 30 minutes of TV after we had finished all of our chores and we didn’t fight over which show to watch. On Sundays, we were allowed to watch Disney or scripture-based movies.

(And forget about video or computer games! I think I played Mario Brothers at a friend’s house when I was 9 once……)

Anyway, due to my screen-free childhood, the idea of my four kids watching non-educational shows for hours when I can’t get out of bed just makes me cringe, especially when I prefer them to do a movement activity for kids.

To that end, I’ve come up with a list of my favorite educational TV shows that I’ll let my kids watch. And no, these do not include Arthur or even Sesame Street. As I said, they need to be educational.

And for the record, PJ Masks don’t count, either. (Snob, remember?)

And now, without further adieu, here’s my list of top educational shows (in no particular order). And if you like this list, you’ll love this post with educational graphic novels for kids.

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List of educational TV shows for kids

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1. Curiosity Stream

Curiosity Stream is a collection of BBC and other videos on science, history, social studies, and more. Some shows are animated, while others are documentaries. Most of them are for older kids.

Whether your child is intrigued by the mysteries of the universe, fascinated by the events that shaped our world, or curious about different cultures and societies, Curiosity Stream provides a wealth of content to satisfy their thirst for knowledge.

What makes Curiosity Stream particularly appealing to younger children is its diverse range of programming formats. From animated series that spark imagination to thought-provoking documentaries that delve deep into real-world phenomena, there’s something for every young learner. While some shows are tailored for older kids, parents can find suitable content to engage children of different ages and interests.


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2 – Cyberchase

Cyberchase is an educational kids television show for older children about a trio of friends who get put into the computer world by Mother Board, who is being attacked by hackers. They stop him from causing trouble with more upper-level math: multiplication, division, tables, and graphs.

By integrating these mathematical principles into the storyline, “Cyberchase” not only entertains but also educates, making complex concepts more accessible and relatable for young viewers.

Through its engaging narratives and interactive approach, “Cyberchase” encourages active learning, participation, and critical thinking among its audience. By joining forces with the characters on-screen, children are inspired to tackle mathematical challenges with confidence and enthusiasm.

With its blend of entertainment and education, “Cyberchase” provides a dynamic platform for children to explore mathematical concepts in a fun and engaging manner, reinforcing the idea that learning can be an exciting adventure.


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3 – Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood

You should be familiar with Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood and the Land of Make-Believe with King Friday, Lady Elaine, and other characters. Daniel Tiger is about the children in the Land of Make-Believe. 

The show’s focus lies in teaching valuable social skills and emotional literacy to children through short, catchy songs that repeat throughout each episode. These songs serve as memorable tools for addressing various real-life situations and helping children navigate their own emotions and interpersonal interactions with greater understanding and empathy.

Despite your children being older, the lessons from “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood” remain relevant and impactful. Many families, like yours, continue to find value in the show’s teachings as they encounter challenges in the real world, demonstrating its enduring influence and timeless appeal.


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4 – DIY Sci

YouTube star and classroom science teacher Steve Spangler hosts his national television series called (Xploration) DIY Sci on Amazon Prime (with PBS Kids). Each episode of “(Xploration) DIY Sci” is packed with exciting demonstrations designed to inspire curiosity and exploration. Steve Spangler’s enthusiasm and expertise shine as he guides audiences through hands-on experiments using everyday materials, ensuring that science becomes accessible and fun for everyone.

Whether viewers are creating dazzling chemical reactions, exploring the wonders of physics, or uncovering the mysteries of the natural world, “(Xploration) DIY Sci” promises to ignite a passion for science and discovery. With its engaging format and captivating content, the series encourages viewers to embrace their inner scientists and embark on thrilling scientific adventures from the comfort of their own homes.


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5 – Dinosaur Train

Dinosaur Train is a beloved animated series that captivates young audiences with its blend of adventure and education. At the heart of Dinosaur Train, is a heartwarming tale of a pteranodon family, led by Mom, who adopts a Tyrannosaurus Rex hatchling named Buddy. Together with Buddy and his siblings, Tiny, Shiny, and Don, they embark on thrilling escapades aboard the Dinosaur Train.

One of the show’s most compelling aspects is its emphasis on learning. As the family travels through time on the Dinosaur Train, they encounter a vast array of dinosaur species, each with its unique characteristics and features. Along the way, viewers are introduced to the scientific names of dinosaurs, as well as fascinating facts about their behavior, diet, and habitat.

Through engaging storytelling and colorful animation, “Dinosaur Train” not only entertains but also educates young viewers about paleontology and the natural world. By sparking curiosity and encouraging exploration, the series inspires a lifelong love of learning and discovery in children.


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6 – Kratt’s Creatures

Kratt’s Creatures stands as an educational television gem for kids, led by the dynamic Kratt brothers, Martin and Chris. Renowned as real-world animal experts, the brothers take young viewers on captivating journeys across the globe to delve into the mysteries of the animal kingdom.

Throughout the series, the Kratt brothers showcase their boundless curiosity and passion for wildlife as they encounter diverse animal species in their natural habitats. From the depths of the ocean to the heights of the rainforest, each episode offers an immersive exploration of different ecosystems and the creatures that call them home.

Children are not only entertained by the brothers’ adventurous spirit but also gain a wealth of knowledge about various animals, their behaviors, adaptations, and the environments they inhabit. By blending adventure with education, “Kratt’s Creatures” inspires curiosity, empathy, and a deeper appreciation for the wonders of nature in young viewers.


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7 – Leap Frog Letter Factory

Leap Frog Letter Factory taught my third child all of his letters and their sounds before turned three years old age, and he was reading long before he turned four.

A young frog named Tad learns about the letters and the sounds they make as he goes through the factory that makes the alphabet.

Through engaging storytelling and captivating animation, “LeapFrog Letter Factory” transforms learning into an exciting adventure for young viewers. By immersing children in the world of letters and phonics, the series of educational programs lays a strong foundation for early literacy skills, setting them on the path to reading success.


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8 – Let’s Go, Luna

The children of circus performers in Let’s Go, Luna travel around the world. In each place, they learn about the language, culture, and history of the country they’re visiting.

Luna – the moon – goes with them along their journey and teaches them, along with the people they encounter.

Let’s Go, Luna emphasizes intercultural learning and appreciation. As the children interact with the people they encounter during their travels, they gain a deeper understanding of different customs, traditions, and ways of life. Luna, with her wise and nurturing presence and age group, serves as both a mentor and a source of knowledge, imparting valuable lessons along the way.

By celebrating diversity and promoting cultural understanding, the series inspires children to embrace the rich tapestry of our world and to develop empathy and respect for people of all backgrounds.


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9 – Liberty’s Kids

In Liberty’s Kids, an educational television show for older children about the American Revolution, Benjamin Franklin enlists the help of young people to record the happenings leading up to and during the Revolution for his newspaper the Pennsylvania Gazette. Together, they travel the colonies witnessing the sacrifices made for freedom.

As they travel across the colonies, the young reporters witness the stirring events and meet the remarkable figures who shaped the course of American history. From the Boston Tea Party to the signing of the Declaration of Independence, each episode of “Liberty’s Kids” brings to life key moments of the Revolution, providing a vivid and compelling portrayal of the sacrifices made for freedom.

Through its captivating storytelling and rich historical detail, “Liberty’s Kids” not only educates but encourages kids also inspires viewers to appreciate the ideals of liberty, democracy, and independence. By showcasing the courage and resilience of the individuals who fought for these principles, the series instills a sense of patriotism and pride in young audiences, fostering a deeper connection to the founding ideals of the United States.


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10 – Little Pim

Little Pim is a panda who teaches children foreign languages. There are over a dozen languages to choose from including Spanish, French, Chinese, and more, “Little Pim” offers a diverse array of options for young learners.

Little Pim introduces children to foreign languages playfully and engagingly. Each episode features immersive experiences and interactive activities that help children grasp basic vocabulary and phrases in their chosen language.

Through colorful animation and engaging storytelling, children are captivated by Little Pim’s adventures while simultaneously absorbing new words and phrases.

By making language learning fun and accessible, “Little Pim” lays the foundation for multilingualism and cultural appreciation in young learners. Whether it’s through watching the videos, playing with the accompanying flashcards, or engaging in interactive activities, “Little Pim” provides children with valuable tools for exploring the world of languages and expanding their horizons.


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11 – Living Scriptures

Don’t let the name fool you – Living Scriptures offers an extensive collection of videos encompassing various historical figures and narratives. While it does feature Bible stories, the platform also provides a treasure trove of content focusing on significant figures from history.

From the courageous exploits of Harriet Tubman to the visionary leadership of George Washington, “Living Scriptures” covers a diverse array of historical subjects. Viewers can immerse themselves in the lives and achievements of renowned individuals such as Leonardo da Vinci, Christopher Columbus, and many more.

Through captivating storytelling and high-quality production, “Living Scriptures” brings history to life, making it accessible and engaging for viewers of all ages. Whether it’s exploring the depths of the Renaissance or tracing the adventures of explorers across the seas, the platform offers a rich tapestry of educational content that inspires curiosity and fosters a deeper appreciation for the past.


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12 – Magic School Bus

A crazy teacher named Ms. Frizzle takes her school class on epic field trips to learn about science, nature, the human body, weather, and more in a – you got it – magic school bus.

With Ms. Frizzle’s quirky personality and the bus’s ability to transform into anything imaginable, the students are taken on exhilarating journeys that ignite their curiosity and thirst for knowledge. Along the way, they encounter fascinating phenomena, solve scientific mysteries, and learn valuable lessons about teamwork, critical thinking, and environmental stewardship.

Through its colorful animation, catchy songs, and humorous storytelling, “Magic School Bus” entertains while educating, making complex scientific concepts accessible and entertaining for young viewers. Whether it’s shrinking down to explore a plant cell or traveling through time to witness historical events, each episode of “Magic School Bus” inspires a sense of wonder and discovery, leaving a lasting impression on generations of children.


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13 – Magic School Bus Rides Again

Magic School Bus Rides Again is the educational sequel to Magic School Bus with the legacy of the original series continuing with Ms. Frizzle’s little sister at the helm.

With her innovative approach and the aid of updated technology, she leads a new generation of students on captivating journeys aboard the magical school bus. Together, they embark on educational adventures that explore a wide range of scientific concepts, inspiring curiosity, and discovery in young minds.

Through engaging storytelling and vibrant animation, “Magic School Bus Rides Again” delivers valuable lessons while honoring the spirit of exploration and learning that made the original series a beloved classic.


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14 – Schoolhouse Rock

Schoolhouse Rock is an educational collection of videos that teach children about government, social studies, science, math, and more! 

Each video features catchy tunes and lively animations, making complex topics easy to understand and remember. The underlying message throughout the series is that “Knowledge is Power!” By blending entertainment with education, “Schoolhouse Rock” inspires children to explore and embrace learning in a fun and engaging way, leaving a lasting impact on generations of viewers.


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15 – Super Why

Super Why is an educational TV show for preschool kids that takes place in Fairy Tale Village, where there is a group of children who are Super Readers. These are the kinds of classic story tale figures, like The Princess and the Pea. They run into problems in their lives, and they look in a book to solve the issue. 

Through their adventures, the Super Readers learn about letters, spelling, reading, and more, as they explore the pages of books to unravel mysteries and overcome challenges. With its interactive storytelling and emphasis on literacy skills, “Super Why” encourages young viewers to engage with language and reading in a fun and meaningful way.


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16 – Team Umizoomi

Team Umi Zoomi is a team of tiny heroes who travel around Umi City, solving problems with patterns, shapes, and numbers. This educational television show for preschoolers teaches kids basic addition, subtraction, counting, pattern recognition, and shapes.

Through colorful animation and interactive storytelling, “Team Umizoomi” not only entertains but also educates young viewers, encouraging active engagement with mathematical concepts. By incorporating real-life scenarios and problem-solving situations, the series fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills and lays the groundwork for mathematical literacy in preschool-aged children.


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17 – Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum

In Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum, children will follow the adventures of Xavier Riddle, his sister Yadina, and their friend Brad as they travel back in time to meet real-life historical figures including Johann Sebastian Bach, Marie Curie, Mary Shelly, Harry Houdini, and many others!

With these encounters, the trio learns important lessons and gains a deeper understanding of history. The series encourages young viewers to explore the past, sparking curiosity and fostering a love for learning about extraordinary individuals who have shaped our world.


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18 – Wild Kratts

Based on Kratt’s Creatures, Wild Kratts is an animated educational television show about the Kratt Brothers. For part of the show, they are cartoon characters who can use “creature power” to go into animals’ lairs, etc. 

The other part of the show has live animals with the real Kratt brothers themselves. Children learn a lot about different kinds of animals and their habitats.


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19 – Word World

Word World is an animated educational TV show for children where the animal characters and their surroundings are made of letters that spell their words.

With such colorful animation and engaging storytelling, “Word World” introduces young viewers to the magical world of words and literacy in a fun and interactive way. By immersing children in a world where letters come to life, the series aims to promote early literacy skills and inspire a love for reading and language.


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20 – Zoboomafoo

Zoboomafoo is yet another educational television show for kids from the Chris and Martin Kratt, only it’s geared towards preschoolers. They are helped by a puppet lemur named Zoboomafoo, affectionately called Zoboo.

Rich with lively adventures and interactive segments, “Zoboomafoo” introduces young viewers to the wonders of the animal kingdom, teaching them about wildlife, habitats, and conservation in a fun and engaging manner.


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4 Comments

  1. Do you have favorite app games? We will be traveling soon and I would love to download educational games rather than just generic entertaining games? Thanks for this list.

  2. Love this list! We love Daniel Tiger, Dinosaur Train and Umi Zumi. My 2 yo can identify crescent shape and different dinosaurs now. Impressive what they pick up while watching. The others are new to us, but we’ll have to give them a try!

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