One of the highlights of my day is winding down with a show that doesn’t make me want to pull my hair out. I also cherish the time spent with my family, so it’s a game-changer if we can all enjoy something together that won’t leave the kids in tears. Because let’s face it, a traumatized child means a sleepless night for everyone. (I’m looking at you, horror series!)
Here are 10 family-friendly shows that I’ve enjoyed with my kids, most of which we’ve devoured in their entirety. Yes, we indulge in a little screen time during the week—because honestly, why not? Right now, we’re racing through “Gortimer Gibbons” because Normal Street is anything but normal. Our family is drawn to magical elements, quirky adventures, and anything involving animals. So, if a show has one of these themes and a low risk of traumatization, we’re all in. Here are our top picks:
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Gortimer Gibbons: Life on Normal Street
This show is a delightful blend of the strange and magical. Normal Street features odd happenings every day, but it’s not so spooky that I’m hiding under a blanket. There are time capsules, ghostly vehicles, and lost treasures—what’s not to love? -
Just Add Magic
Three girls stumble upon a magical cookbook that leads to all sorts of culinary adventures. One of the grandmothers might be hiding something, and let’s just say, beware of the Last Ditch Layer Cake! With two binge-worthy seasons on Amazon, we couldn’t get enough. -
Anne with an “E”
I may be the biggest fan of this series in my household. It brings back memories of “Little House on the Prairie.” My kids are fascinated by how different life was in the late 19th century, with no smartphones or Wi-Fi. It’s a slower-paced show, but well worth the watch. -
Dragons: Race to the Edge
If you’re a fan of “How to Train Your Dragon,” you’ll love this series. The storylines are engaging, keeping me hooked even while I try to multitask. With five seasons of approximately 20-minute episodes, it’s perfect for kids with shorter attention spans. -
The Worst Witch
Think of a magical school akin to Harry Potter, but with a twist—one young witch seems out of place. Based on a beloved book series, this show follows Mildred as she navigates her way through spells and trouble. The modern updates add a fun flair to the classic story. -
Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events
Neil Patrick Harris shines as the dastardly Count Olaf in this adaptation of the popular book series. A trio of orphans faces numerous challenges as they unravel the mystery of their circumstances. The catchy theme song is sure to stick with you. -
Treehouse Masters
My kids are absolutely fascinated by this show where elaborate treehouses are designed and built. Whether it’s the quirky personality of Pete Nelson or the stunning treehouse designs, it keeps us all entertained. We were inspired to build our own treehouse this summer! -
Project Runway Junior
For kids interested in fashion or crafts, this show is a must-watch. The young contestants impress with their talent and creativity, all while remaining supportive of one another. My kids often ask to stay up for the runway show—proud moments for any parent! -
Planet Earth
This breathtaking series showcases the beauty of our planet through stunning cinematography and incredible storytelling. I learned that some caterpillars in the Antarctic take 14 years to transform into butterflies due to short growing seasons. Just be mindful, as some scenes can be intense for younger viewers. -
Stranger Things
WARNING: This show is not for the faint of heart. While my older child watched it with his grandmother, I wouldn’t let the younger one near it. It’s a thrilling ride that might lead to sleepless nights, so view it first to determine if your child can handle the suspense.
Happy viewing! We’d love to hear about your favorite family shows. For more on parenting and family life, check out Modern Family Blog for expert insights. And if you’re exploring family planning, visit Healthline for excellent information on pregnancy and home insemination. Also, for those considering at-home methods, see our post on the Artificial Insemination Kit.
In summary, these shows provide a blend of entertainment that both kids and parents can enjoy together, making family time both fun and memorable.