Screen time gets a bad rap, but we have found some shows that are genuinely educational for kids. I’m always amazed at the facts my kids can tell me about things after watching one of these! You can order the DVDs through the affiliate links in this post, or find many of the shows on netflix or on hulu.
Popular Mechanics For Kids – I just discovered this show with DVDs from our library. Today, my 5 year old learned about surface tension, how lightning works and water pressure. It’s all done in a fun and engaging way, he can’t take his eyes off it! The DVDs we’re watching are from the 90s but still awesome for today!
Liberty’s Kids – This is a great show that teaches kids about the history of the United States. The kids can journey through history with the three main characters (all kids) and see about what was happening in history long ago.
Where in the World Is Carmen San Diego – Based off the very old but very popular computer game, this show teaches kids about geography and trivia as they watch Carmen try to foil the detectives! I loved the game as a kid, so I’m looking forward to introducing the show to my own kids.
The Electric Company – Work on early reading skills with this fun and very vintage show!
School House Rock – Another vintage show, but it hasn’t lost it’s appeal. The simple fact that I can still recite sing the entire preamble to the constitution serves to demonstrate that the history learned through this show can really stick with your kids.
How it’s Made – Kids will love watching their favorite things and toys be made. They’ll learn a lot about simple machines and how stuff works along the way.
Wild Kratts – The Kratt brothers love learning about animals so much they can even transform themselves into various animals to help kids learn about them. Go on breathtaking adventures with them! I’m always amazed at the facts my kids spout off after watching this show. They definitely have surpassed the basic “kid” knowledge of animals because of this show! also on hulu
Modern Marvels – This show has been put on by the History Channel. From the heights of human ingenuity to the depths of engineering catastrophes, Modern Marvels continues to explore the most awe-inspiring achievements in the world.
Sid the Science Kid – Sid loves science, and he teaches little ones so much as he goes throughout his day learning about everything around him!
Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab – Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab is an animated comedy series that includes fun science factoids to provide entertainment while educating your young ones! Unknown to the world, Thomas Edison built a secret lab where he invented a virtual version of himself and a steampunk robot named Von Bolt. Years later, Angie, a twelve year old science prodigy, discovers the lab. Guided by fun-loving Edison, Angie and her friends, JD, Kent, and Nicky, exhibit the best in inventive spirit through fun experimenting and exploring science!
Mighty Machines – Kids will love learning about big machines and how they all work! Things like waves, and where garbage goes after you throw it away and even demolition sites!
Super Why! – Early reading skills are learned through this adorable super hero show!
Mythbusters – This show was officially marketed for adults but I’ve found it to be a fascinating and educational show for kids too! They experiment with different ideas to find out how things work. Kids love it!
These are our favorite educational shows for kids, lots of them would work for homeschooling as well. Which is your favorite? Do you have one we should add to the list?
Jeanette says
Odd Squad is another good show.