Pluto TV is free streaming that replicates the cable TV experience, which means it inherits all of cable's problems: endless channel-surfing, ads, and a content library that ranges from quality to absolute garbage. For adults or teens who want free access to movies and live TV, it's a solid deal. For kids? It's a minefield unless you lock down Kids Mode and supervise closely.

The app itself isn't malicious—there's no predatory monetization, no social features, no chat. But the content is all over the map. You've got SpongeBob next to The Walking Dead, Dateline true crime next to kids' cartoons. Even with Kids Mode, you're teaching passive consumption and ad tolerance in an era where we're trying to move away from that.

If you're looking for intentional, curated kids' content, this isn't it. If you need free streaming and are willing to put in the work to lock it down, it can work. But honestly? Most families would be better served by the kids' sections of Netflix, Disney+, or even YouTube Kids with proper supervision.