Bluey — If you haven't watched this yet, what are you even doing? This Australian import about a family of Blue Heeler dogs is legitimately the best thing on television for young kids. Period. The episodes are 7 minutes long, the parents are actually trying (and sometimes failing, which is refreshing), and the show models creative play in ways that feel real. Plus, you might cry. Like, a lot. The episode "Sleepytime" will wreck you in the best way.

Gabby's Dollhouse — This one surprised me. It's got that DreamWorks polish, and while it's definitely more "commercial" than Bluey, it's genuinely sweet and creative. Gabby solves problems with her cat friends in a magical dollhouse, and there's actual emotional intelligence baked into the storylines. The pacing is gentle without being boring, and the animation is gorgeous.

Trash Truck — Quiet, gentle, and weird in the best way. A kid and his best friend (a trash truck, naturally) have low-stakes adventures. It's got that Hilda vibe but for younger kids. Perfect for winding down before bed.

The Last Kids on Earth — Based on the popular book series, this animated show follows a group of kids surviving a monster apocalypse. Sounds intense, but it's actually hilarious and heartwarming. The monsters are more goofy than scary, and the friendship dynamics are genuinely good. Great for kids who are ready for slightly higher stakes but not actual peril.

Ada Twist, Scientist — From the same team that brought you Questioneers books, this show is about a curious Black girl who loves science and asking questions. The musical numbers are catchy (sorry in advance), and it actually models the scientific method in ways kids can understand and apply.

Hilda — This show is chef's kiss. A blue-haired girl moves from the wilderness to the city and befriends magical creatures. The animation is stunning, the storytelling is sophisticated without being over kids' heads, and it deals with real themes like friendship, change, and finding where you belong. It's based on a graphic novel series that's equally excellent.

Avatar: The Last Airbender — Yes, it's from 2005. Yes, it's still one of the best shows ever made for kids (and honestly, adults). If your kid hasn't watched it yet, now's the time. It's got everything: incredible world-building, character development that puts most adult shows to shame, humor, heart, and genuine stakes. The themes of war, genocide, forgiveness, and growing up are handled with remarkable nuance.

The Worst Witch — Think Harry Potter but with a girl protagonist and less baggage. Mildred Hubble is a disaster witch at a magical boarding school, and the show is charming, funny, and genuinely empowering. Great for kids who love magic but are ready for something with more emotional complexity than younger fare.

Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts — Set in a post-apocalyptic world where animals have mutated and taken over, this show is visually stunning and emotionally intelligent. The protagonist is optimistic without being naive, and the show deals with themes of identity, family, and what it means to build community. Plus, the soundtrack absolutely slaps.

Heartstopper — This British coming-of-age story about two boys falling in love is so pure it might actually restore your faith in humanity. It deals with coming out, mental health, and first relationships with genuine care and tenderness. It's based on the graphic novel series and is perfect for teens (and honestly, anyone who needs to remember that love can be kind).

Arcane — Even if your kid has never played League of Legends (the game it's based on), this show is a masterpiece. The animation is groundbreaking, the story is complex and mature, and it deals with class warfare, family trauma, and moral ambiguity in ways that feel earned. Fair warning: it's dark and violent, so this is truly for older teens.

Not everything on Netflix Kids is worth your time. Here's what you can safely scroll past:

Cocomelon — It's not harmful, but it's basically digital baby crack. The pacing is frenetic, there's no real narrative, and it's designed to be addictive rather than educational. If your kid is already hooked, here's how to transition away from it.

Ryan's World — This is essentially a 30-minute toy commercial masquerading as a show. Hard pass.

Most of the algorithmically-generated content — You know the stuff: weird animation, nonsensical plots, characters that look like they were designed by AI having a fever dream. If you've never heard of it and it looks cheap, trust your instincts.

Good kids' shows exist, and they're worth seeking out. The best ones respect kids' intelligence, deal with real emotions, and tell actual stories. They're the shows you don't mind rewatching (because you will, many times), and they give you stuff to talk about with your kids beyond "wasn't that funny when the character fell down?"

Netflix's kids' section is a mixed bag, but these shows are the real deal. They're worth your family's screen time, and honestly? Some of them are worth your screen time too.

Want to dig deeper into specific shows? Check out our full reviews and age ratings for any of the shows mentioned here. And if you're trying to figure out how much screen time is right for your family, our chatbot can help you think through your specific situation.

The goal isn't perfect. It's intentional. And sometimes, intentional means putting on Bluey so you can make dinner in peace. That's not just okay — that's good parenting.