In the digital age of information, television has evolved into a valuable tool for early childhood education (Yes! Really!).
With the right selection of educational TV shows, toddlers can embark on exciting adventures while acquiring essential skills and knowledge. In this blog post, we present the best list of 20 educational TV shows that combine entertainment and learning, providing toddlers with a delightful and enriching experience.
Let’s explore each show and its educational benefits!
Sesame Street
A legendary and historic TV show that has captivated generations (I grew up with 10 TV stations and Sesame Street on one of them), Sesame Street is a colorful and diverse community where toddlers can learn about numbers, letters, shapes, and more. Through lovable characters like Elmo and Big Bird, children develop language skills, social awareness, and problem-solving abilities.
Watch Sesame Street YouTube Videos
Bluey
Bluey follows the adventures of a lovable Australian Blue Heeler puppy and her family. This animated series emphasizes imaginative play, problem-solving, emotional intelligence, and positive values such as kindness and resilience.
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood
Inspired by the classic characters from “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood,” Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood teaches toddlers important life lessons and social-emotional skills. Through engaging stories, children learn about empathy, sharing, and managing emotions in a supportive and relatable environment.
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood can be found on PBS Kids YouTube videos.
Peppa Pig
Join Peppa Pig and her friends in this charming animated series that introduces toddlers to everyday experiences while emphasizing friendship, family values, and simple problem-solving. The show encourages communication skills and fosters curiosity about the world, even with my Peppa Pig theories.
Super Why!
With a focus on literacy skills, the awesome and informative Super Why! takes preschoolers on interactive reading adventures. Each episode revolves around solving a problem by using the power of reading, spelling, and comprehension, instilling a love for books and words.
Watch Super Why! YouTube Videos
Paw Patrol
Paw Patrol combines action, teamwork, and problem-solving as a group of animated puppies rescue and protect their community. Toddlers learn about community service, cooperation, and basic problem-solving skills in a fun and engaging way.
Doc McStuffins
Join Doc McStuffins, a young girl with a magical stethoscope, as she “fixes” and cares for her toys. This show introduces basic medical knowledge, empathy, and problem-solving skills while encouraging children to care for others and their belongings. What little kid doesn’t like pretending to be a doctor? Why not let them explore that fun with this cool educational TV show for toddlers?
Bubble Guppies
Dive into an underwater world of adventure with the “Bubble Guppies.” This animated series focuses on preschool topics such as math, science, and literacy. The show encourages active participation, imagination, and critical thinking skills.
Curious George
Based on the beloved book series, Curious George follows the mischievous yet endearing monkey and his adventures. Through curiosity-driven escapades, children learn about science, problem-solving, and the importance of perseverance.
Dora the Explorer
Dora the Explorer takes toddlers on interactive journeys through forests, mountains, and rivers. As Dora overcomes obstacles, viewers learn problem-solving, basic Spanish vocabulary, and map-reading skills while embracing multiculturalism.
Mickey Mouse Clubhouse
Mickey and his friends invite toddlers to join their club in a show that encourages problem-solving, shape recognition, and early math concepts. This animated series promotes cognitive skills while featuring beloved Disney characters.
Team Umizoomi
Team Umizoomi combines math, problem-solving, and adventure as a team of superheroes uses math skills to solve everyday challenges. Through engaging stories and interactive elements, children develop early numeracy skills and critical thinking abilities. This TV show also includes puns and jokes in each episode that adults can laugh at, too.
The Magic School Bus
Based on the popular book series, The Magic School Bus takes children on exciting field trips led by the eccentric Ms. Frizzle. As they explore science and the natural world, kids gain knowledge about various scientific concepts in a captivating and humorous way.
WordWorld
WordWorld introduces toddlers to the fascinating world of words and reading. Each episode features lovable animal characters who construct words using letters and sounds, fostering early literacy skills, vocabulary, and phonics awareness.
Sid the Science Kid
Through Sid’s curious and scientific mind, “Sid the Science Kid” encourages toddlers to explore the world around them. The show covers various science topics, promoting observation, critical thinking, and a love for scientific exploration.
Octonauts
Join the Octonauts, a team of adventurous animals, on underwater missions to rescue and protect marine creatures. This show introduces preschoolers to ocean science, marine biology, and environmental awareness, nurturing curiosity about the natural world.
Little Einsteins
Combining classical music, art, and adventure, Little Einsteins introduces toddlers to the world of fine arts and encourages exploration and creativity. Through engaging storylines and interactive elements, children develop an appreciation for music and art while fostering cognitive and motor skills.
Blaze and the Monster Machines
Blaze and the Monster Machines takes preschoolers on high-speed adventures where they learn about science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) concepts. The show encourages problem-solving, critical thinking, and basic engineering principles in a fun and exciting way.
Masha and the Bear
This funny animated series features the adventures of a spirited little girl named Masha and her friendly bear. Through their escapades, toddlers learn about friendship, problem-solving, and basic social skills while enjoying slapstick comedy and heartwarming moments. This is also a good one for adults to watch as it uses a lot of funny jokes and moments for parents.
Tumble Leaf
Tumble Leaf follows the curious blue fox, Fig, as he discovers the wonders of his island. This stop-motion animated series introduces early science and problem-solving skills, promoting curiosity, creativity, and imagination.
Honorable Mentions
Little Baby Bum YouTube Videos
Thoughts About Educational TV Shows for Toddlers
Educational TV shows for toddlers have the power to combine entertainment and learning, providing a valuable platform for early childhood education. Through the engaging and educational content of shows like Sesame Street, Bluey, Paw Patrol, and more, toddlers can develop essential skills, foster curiosity, and embark on exciting learning adventures.
With careful selection and parental involvement, these shows can be an effective supplement to a child’s overall educational journey. So, grab the remote and embark on an educational and entertaining journey with your little one!
Both of my kids love Masha and the Bear! It’s pretty funny for adults, too.
Dora the Explorer is such a great classic little kids show!
Thanks for posting these TV show options. There are so many shows to watch, as a new mother, this narrows down what I will let my little one watch.