Parents, when it comes to making decisions about screen time, first you have to decide how much is right for your family. Then you have to decide what shows you’re OK with your kids watching.
Not every show is right for every kid. That’s especially true for toddlers and preschoolers, who can have a lot of big feelings about their favorite TV. Maybe they love to sing and dance and want something entirely music-based. Maybe they love animals or dolls or trucks. Maybe they need to learn a specific skill. Maybe turning off the TV show they currently love causes too many meltdowns, so you need something new.
We’ve rounded up a list of educational and enjoyable (for kids and their caregivers) TV shows for the toddler and preschooler age group (yes, “Bluey” is on the list). We also note a few shows that other parents would warn you to avoid.
But of course, the best way to tell if your child will respond well to something is to try it out yourself. Most of these shows are short and sweet, with simple stories you can stream yourself before you need to put something on for your antsy toddler while you have a Zoom meeting.
Best TV Shows for Toddlers and Preschoolers
“Bluey” (Disney+)
What’s left to say about this blockbuster preschool series that hasn’t already been said? By now we all know that “Bluey” is great TV for kids and adults alike. It’s funny, it’s heartwarming and it’ll make you cry. It captures the spirit of play, the reality of parenting, and the beauty of childhood all in crisp, seven-minute episodes. The educational, pro-social themes are easy enough for kids to understand and deep enough to move parents to tears, no small feat for a little blue heeler dog. New three-minute
