Best Animated Series for Kids: Top Shows That Actually Hold Attention
When you’re looking for the best animated series for kids, TV shows designed to entertain young viewers while supporting their development. Also known as children’s animation, these shows go beyond colorful characters—they build emotional intelligence, teach problem-solving, and sometimes even introduce early math or language skills. Not every cartoon works. Some are loud, fast, and overstimulating. Others are so bland they put kids to sleep. The real winners balance fun with purpose, and that’s what you’ll find here.
These shows aren’t just for babysitting. The educational cartoons, programs intentionally designed to teach concepts like empathy, counting, or social rules, like Bluey or PBS Kids series, use storytelling to help kids understand feelings and relationships. Meanwhile, family-friendly animation, content that works for both children and adults without talking down to either—think Avatar: The Last Airbender or Gravity Falls—keeps parents from dreading screen time. These aren’t just for toddlers; many are perfect for ages 5 to 12, and even teens will find something to love.
The best ones don’t rely on flashy effects or loud noises. They build worlds kids want to return to, characters they care about, and stories that stick. Whether it’s learning to share through a talking dog, solving mysteries with a curious fox, or exploring space with a brave girl and her robot friend, these shows turn entertainment into experience. You’ll find a mix of modern hits and timeless classics in the collection below—no filler, no ads, no mindless noise. Just shows that actually make screen time worth it.
Best Animated Series for Kids on Various Platforms
Discover the best animated series for kids across Netflix, Disney+, Amazon, and more. Learn what makes a show truly beneficial for children’s development and how to use parental controls wisely.