The tween years are when kids start forming their own media preferences and pushing for more independence in what they watch. This is actually good—it's part of growing up. But it also means they're encountering more complex themes, relationship dynamics, and content that deserves some context.

Co-viewing (or at least being aware of what they're watching) during these years isn't about control—it's about connection. These shows become conversation starters about friendship drama, identity, ethics, and how the world works. Miss this window, and you miss out on natural opportunities to talk about the stuff that matters.

Also, let's acknowledge: tween content can be aggressively bad. Lots of shows aimed at this age group rely on stereotypes, mean humor, or just lazy writing. Your tween deserves better, and frankly, so do you if you're going to be in the room.

Avatar: The Last Airbender — If you haven't watched this yet, stop what you're doing. Seriously. This animated series is a masterclass in storytelling, character development, and tackling heavy themes (war, loss, responsibility) in age-appropriate ways. Three seasons, complete story, and it holds up for adults too.

Percy Jackson and the Olympians (Disney+) — The 2023 series finally does the books justice. Great for mythology-loving kids, and it handles themes of neurodiversity, found family, and self-acceptance really well. Some monsters and peril, but nothing graphic.

The Dragon Prince — From one of the creators of Avatar (see above), this fantasy series has gorgeous animation and genuinely complex moral questions. Does get a bit darker in later seasons, so maybe start it together.

Abbott Elementary — Hear me out. This workplace comedy about an underfunded public school is surprisingly tween-friendly. It's smart, genuinely funny, and gives kids a peek into what teachers deal with. Occasional mild language, but nothing you wouldn't hear at actual school.

The Great British Baking Show — Not technically a series, but tweens are OBSESSED with this show. It's wholesome, low-stakes drama, and somehow deeply entertaining. Plus it might inspire them to bake you something.

Ghosts (CBS version) — A couple inherits a house full of ghosts from different eras. It's clever, family-friendly, and has heart. The British version is also great but slightly more mature humor.

Only Murders in the Building — This one requires a judgment call based on your kid. It's a murder mystery comedy that's more Clue than CSI. Some mature themes and occasional language, but the violence is not graphic. Great for older tweens (12+) who love puzzles.

The InBESTigators — Australian series about kid detectives solving neighborhood mysteries. Solidly in the younger tween range (9-11), but well-made and genuinely engaging without being babyish.

Hilda — Animated series about a fearless blue-haired girl in a world of magical creatures. Gorgeous animation, thoughtful storytelling, and surprising emotional depth. Works for younger tweens but older kids appreciate it too.

The Mysterious Benedict Society — Gifted kids recruited for a secret mission. Celebrates intelligence and teamwork without being preachy. Based on beloved books.

Nailed It! — Amateur bakers failing spectacularly at complicated cakes. It's hilarious, celebrates imperfection, and is genuinely wholesome. The holiday specials are particularly fun for family viewing.

Lego Masters — Exactly what it sounds like. Teams compete to build incredible Lego creations. Will Arnett hosts, it's funny, and the builds are legitimately impressive.

Even "good" tween shows can have stuff worth discussing:

Relationship drama — Many tween shows include crushes, dating, and friendship conflicts. This isn't bad! It's age-appropriate. But it's worth watching together so you can talk about healthy vs. unhealthy relationship dynamics.

Mean humor — Some shows rely on characters being mean to each other for laughs. If your kid starts parroting sarcastic putdowns, might be time to switch shows.

Incomplete series — Nothing worse than getting invested in a show that ends on a cliffhanger and gets canceled. (Looking at you, Netflix.) Check if a series has a proper ending before committing.

The YouTube rabbit hole — Kids often discover shows through YouTube clips, then want to watch reaction videos, fan theories, etc. This isn't necessarily bad, but be aware of how the algorithm works and what they're actually watching.

Ages 9-10: Stick with clearly family-friendly content like Hilda, The InBESTigators, and Avatar: The Last Airbender. Co-viewing is still pretty standard at this age.

Ages 11-12: Can handle more complex themes and mild language. Shows like Percy Jackson, Abbott Elementary, and Ghosts work well. You might do more "check-ins" than full co-viewing.

Ages 13+: Entering teen territory. Can handle shows with more mature themes if you've built good communication. Only Murders in the Building and similar shows become options. But don't assume they're ready for everything—context matters more than age.

The best tween shows are ones that respect where your kid is developmentally while challenging them to think and feel. They're not dumbed down, but they're not trying to be edgy for the sake of it.

Start by watching a few episodes together. If your kid is engaged, you're not cringing, and it sparks actual conversations afterward, you've found a winner. If they're bored or you're uncomfortable, move on. There are plenty of options.

And remember: you don't have to love everything they watch. As long as it's age-appropriate and not actively terrible, it's okay if they have their shows and you have yours. The goal is to stay connected to their media world, not control every minute of it.

Need help figuring out if a specific show is right for your kid? Ask our chatbot or check our reviews—we've probably covered it.