Apple TV+ is Apple's streaming service—the one that launched with a lot of fanfare and, let's be honest, not a ton of content. But here's the thing: what they lack in quantity, they're increasingly making up for in quality. Unlike Netflix's "throw everything at the wall" approach or Disney+'s vault of nostalgia, Apple TV+ is more curated. Smaller library, but generally higher production values.
The catch? Because it's smaller, you really need to know what's worth your time. You're not going to endlessly scroll through hundreds of options. You're going to look at maybe 30 family-friendly titles and wonder which ones are actually good.
So let's cut through it.
Snoopy in Space and The Snoopy Show (Ages 4-10)
These are legitimately excellent. If you have younger kids, this is your sweet spot. The animation is gorgeous, the pacing is perfect for short attention spans, and it's Snoopy—so you're not going to hate watching it for the 47th time. Each episode is broken into short segments, which is perfect for "just one more before bed" negotiations.
Wolfboy and the Everything Factory (Ages 6-11)
This one flew under the radar, but it's genuinely creative. It's about a kid who discovers a magical realm where everything in our world is created. The animation style is unique (think paper cutout meets digital), and the storytelling doesn't talk down to kids. It's got heart without being saccharine.
Ghostwriter (Ages 8-13)
A modern reboot of the '90s PBS show, but make it actually good. Kids solve mysteries with the help of a ghost who communicates through manipulating text. It's clever, diverse cast, and sneakily gets kids excited about books and storytelling. Each season tackles a different literary genre.
Stillwater (Ages 4-8)
Based on the Jon J. Muth books, this show features a panda who helps neighborhood kids work through problems using Zen principles. Before you roll your eyes—it's not preachy. It's gentle, thoughtful, and honestly kind of calming to watch. Good for anxious kids or when you need something that won't amp everyone up before bed.
Luck (Ages 7+)
Apple's attempt at a Pixar-style animated movie. It's... fine. The animation is beautiful, the voice cast is stacked, but the story doesn't quite land the emotional punch it's reaching for. Your kids probably won't hate it, but they're also not going to be quoting it for weeks. Good for a rainy afternoon when you've exhausted everything else.
Slumberkins (Ages 3-6)
If you're into social-emotional learning content, this is your jam. It's based on the popular plush toys and explicitly teaches emotional regulation skills. Some kids love it, some find it too slow. Very much depends on whether your family vibes with the "let's name our feelings" approach to everything.
Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock (Ages 5-10)
A reboot of the Jim Henson classic. It's got the same energy and music-forward storytelling, updated with modern sensibilities. If you loved the original, you'll appreciate this. If you never saw it, your kids might find it a little weird compared to current kids' shows. The puppetry is top-notch though.
Surfside Girls (Ages 9-14)
Two girls solve a supernatural mystery in their California beach town. It's got genuine scares (not nightmare-inducing, but real tension), strong female friendship, and doesn't feel like it's trying too hard to be "cool." Think Gravity Falls meets Nancy Drew.
Harriet the Spy (Ages 8-12)
Animated adaptation of the classic book. It's smart, funny, and the protagonist is delightfully flawed. Harriet is observant, creative, and also kind of a jerk sometimes—which makes her feel real. Great for kids who are too old for typical "kids' shows" but not ready for teen content.
Prehistoric Planet (Ages 7+)
David Attenborough narrating CGI dinosaurs that look absolutely incredible. This is basically Planet Earth but with dinosaurs, and it's spectacular. If you have a dinosaur-obsessed kid, this is non-negotiable viewing. Even adults will be genuinely entertained.
The Velveteen Rabbit (Ages 6+)
The recent animated adaptation is beautiful and will make you cry. It's a bit slow for modern kids' pacing expectations, but if your family can handle something more contemplative, it's lovely. Just be prepared for feelings.
Helpsters - It's fine, but unless you're desperate for more Sesame Street-style content, it's pretty forgettable.
Doug Unplugs - Cute concept (robot learning to unplug and explore the real world), but the execution is just okay. Not bad, just not memorable.
Here's the thing about Apple TV+: their prestige content is really good. Ted Lasso, Severance, The Morning Show—these are legitimately excellent shows. But they're absolutely not family viewing. This isn't Disney+ where you can browse with your kids. You need to be intentional about what's on screen because the adult content is very adult.
Apple TV+ isn't going to be your family's primary streaming service—the library is too small. But if you already have it (bundled with your phone plan, perhaps?), there are some genuinely great options for kids. The Snoopy content alone is worth it for younger kids, and the nature documentaries are spectacular.
The key is knowing what you're looking for before you open the app. Don't expect to browse and discover—do your homework, make a list, and go in with a plan.
Pro tip: Use the "Up Next" feature to queue up approved shows so your kids aren't browsing the entire library and stumbling onto Severance thumbnails. Learn more about setting up parental controls on Apple TV+.
- Make a family watch list of 3-5 shows that match your kids' ages
- Set up Screen Time restrictions if your kids have independent access to Apple TV
- Check out our guide on how to balance streaming time with other activities
- If you're looking for alternatives, here's what's worth watching on Disney+ and the best family shows on Netflix