problem solving kid shows

10 shows for kids that are actually educational

• Some TV shows are designed to educate children and help them learn valuable skills.
• The aquatic animated series "Octonauts" can help children learn about nature.
• "Arthur" is designed to help children develop moral-reasoning skills.
• Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

When it comes to choosing TV shows for kids to watch , the sheer number of programs available can be overwhelming.

Some series exist as pure entertainment but others are actually designed to help kids better adjust to the world, teaching them valuable life lessons and useful educational concepts.

Here are some TV series that are designed to help your children learn valuable academic skills and social skills. 

"Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood" (PBS Kids) focuses on teaching children useful social skills.

Inspired by "Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood," " Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood " emphasizes social skills and empathy-building. 

Per the PBS Kids website, the series' stories were created "based on extensive input from a wide range of early learning specialists" and "formative research with children."

"Kids who watch ['Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood'] have higher levels of empathy, what we call 'social self-confidence'  — being confident in social situations — and the ability to recognize emotions," Eric Rasmussen , PhD, associate professor & director of the doctoral program at Texas Tech University's College of Media & Communication, who has conducted studies on the series, told Insider. 

"Arthur" (PBS Kids) is designed to help children develop moral-reasoning skills.

" Arthur ," based on Marc Brown's book series, revolves around an anthropomorphic aardvark and his school-aged animal pals.

According to Rasmussen, research has found that kids who watch the show develop advanced perspective-taking, which helps them understand situations from others' points of view, and moral-reasoning skills, which helps them determine if something is right or wrong. 

Per PBS Parents , the show is also designed to model age-appropriate problem-solving skills, help children foster a love of reading and writing, and teach positive social behaviors.

Many have also recently praised the show for its move toward more diverse and inclusive storylines . In 2019, "Arthur" made the news by releasing an episode that featured a beloved character getting married in a same-sex wedding ceremony .

"Sesame Street" (HBO) is designed to help youngsters develop their reading abilities and early literacy skills.

Between its loveable muppet and human characters and its catchy original songs, " Sesame Street " is one of the most memorable kids' shows out there, and it's also one of the most influential.

"There's been a lot of research on 'Sesame Street,'" Rasmussen told Insider. "Kids who watch 'Sesame Street' develop reading and early literacy skills ." 

A 2019 study in the American Economic Journal suggests that people who watched "Sesame Street" as preschoolers when it first aired in 1969 did better in school than individuals who did not view the show .

A 2015 study also found that watching the show can positively impact a child's performance in school , especially children in economically disadvantaged communities.

The series has also been praised for "championing diversity," depicting a broader cast of individuals of different abilities and backgrounds, such as Julia, a muppet who has autism, and Karli , a muppet who is in foster care. 

"Super Why!" (PBS Kids) is designed to promote children's literacy skills.

Aimed at building kids' reading abilities, the cartoon " Super Why !" is set in a world where storybook characters have superhero alter egos.

"With [creating] 'Super Why!,' the goal was literacy skills ," said Angela Santomero , co-creator of the series and executive producer and co-creator of children's shows such as "Blue's Clues." "The idea of how we solve our problem and the problem itself was always based on a story." 

To ensure that the show was as beneficial as possible, Santomero said she and her team worked with the National Reading Panel to craft lessons around benchmarks deemed critical for reading such as alphabet labeling, expressive vocabulary, and building words. 

"Doc McStuffins" (Disney Jr.) has been praised for its representation and for its help easing children’s anxiety about doctor’s appointments.

On "Doc McStuffins," a girl named Dottie who dreams of being a doctor uses a magic stethoscope to make her dolls and toys come to life.

For years, parents have praised the series for helping their kids feel less nervous about doctor's appointments. The show has also been lauded by black healthcare professionals, particularly women, for its diversity. 

"The country needs a healthcare system that reflects its own diversity ," Dr. Myiesha Taylor, an emergency physician in Dallas, Texas, told NBC News in 2013. "You'd be surprised how many people still think 'doctor' means 'old white guy.' If we can build on what 'Doc McStuffins' is doing, the next generation of patients will have a different view of the medical profession, and so will children of color."

Parents have also praised the series for its representation of same-sex parents , like when two mom dolls on an episode of the show were voiced by two queer celebrities, Wanda Sykes and Portia de Rossi.

Ocean-themed "Octonauts" (CBeebie) can help children learn about aquatic life.

"Octonauts," a British series about oceanic explorers, is designed to educate kids about sea life. The creatures featured in the show are based on real-life marine animals and habitats , which can help children learn more about the environment. 

The National Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration (NOAA) also has a special partnership with the series to help raise awareness of science as well as ocean exploration, per The New York Times. The NOAA even has a general resource page related to "Octonauts." 

"Odd Squad" (PBS Kids) is a live-action, math-focused series.

" Odd Squad " is a live-action show about kids who run an organization dedicated to solving unusual problems through math. The series "helps with early math skills like counting, addition, subtraction," Rasmussen said. 

A 2015 study conducted by the nonprofit WestEd found that the series can help elementary-age students increase their algebraic thinking and knowledge of numbers and operations.

Following 83 first-graders and their families at school and at home for four weeks, researchers found that students who watched the show, engaged with its episodes and other resources like worksheets, and discussed it with family members were more motivated to solve math problems and scored higher on mathematical assessments. 

"Blue’s Clues" (Nick Jr.) is designed to help kids cultivate kindergarten-readiness skills.

"Blue's Clues" has been on for decades and it was even rebooted in 2019. The show's plot centers around a puppy named Blue who solves problems by examining a trio of clues.

Formatted like an interactive game show, the series is designed to help children cultivate kindergarten-readiness skills by teaching them things such as shape and color recognition, basic counting, and letter recognition .

The series also emphasizes the importance of literacy and is designed to encourage its young viewers to enjoy reading . 

"Peg + Cat" (PBS Kids) is crafted to help promote early math skills.

" Peg + Cat " is an animated series about a young girl who solves math problems with her pet feline. It's based on Billy Aronson and Jennifer Oxley's book " The Chicken Problem ." 

"The show teaches measurement, shapes and patterns, and a wide range of fundamental pre-math skills, as established by the National Association for the Education of Young Children and the National Council for Teachers of Mathematics," per the PBS Parents website . 

Plus, a 12-week 2015 study of nearly 200 4-year-old and 5-year-old participants found that children who utilized media content from this series (including watching its episodes and playing its online games) showed improvement in key math skills, such as ordinal numbers.

"Wild Kratts" (PBS Kids) can help teach kids about animals and foster their interest in science.

"Wild Kratts" stars Chris and Martin Kratt, who many know from their previous show "Zoboomafoo," as animated versions of themselves. 

According to PBS LearningMedia , which offers resources for parents who watch the show with their kids, the series aims to educate 6- to 8-year-olds about wildlife and help children develop observation skills and cultivate a life-long interest in science .

Tackling topics from ecosystems to extinction, "Wild Kratts" is designed to give elementary-age kids a comprehensive, age-appropriate introduction to the natural sciences.

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26 Educational Kids' Shows For Your Little One to Stream While They're at Home

With a society that is technology driven, it's normal for today's generation of kids to be engrossed in a phone or tablet. And while we all want to find the right balance for our family, there's no denying that screen time can be our friend as far as keeping kids busy — especially if you're trying to work from home (or, let's face it, just exist at home). That's why so many parents are such huge fans of educational kids' shows. Sure, throwing on a kids' show or feel-good movie can be a great option to make little ones happy and give you a little peace. But educational kids' shows can be just as interesting and attention keeping — and why not have your kids learn something new while keeping them entertained and out of your hair?

As you know, however, not all children's series are created equal — and if kids are going to watch TV , you want to make sure they're consuming something with actual educational value that'll feed their curious and evolving minds. So we rounded up the best educational kids' shows, that tackle science concepts to problem-solving skills to manners . Read on to see our picks for educational kids' shows on Netflix and other services.

Educational Kids' Shows: "Super Why!"

What it's about : "Reading is power and 'Super Why!' is the only preschool property created to help kids learn the fundamentals of reading through interactive storybook adventures. . . . The program represents a novel approach to preschool educational television, featuring a team of superhero characters with reading powers, who jump into books to find answers to everyday preschool challenges."

Concepts it teaches: literacy, social skills, problem-solving

Ages it's best suited for: 3 and up

Where to watch: Amazon Prime and YouTube TV

Educational Kids' Shows: "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse"

What it's about: "Mickey entertains preschoolers by inviting them to join him and his friends for a date at the Clubhouse. Using early math learning and problem solving skills, he leads kids on an interactive adventure of learning and fun."

Concepts it teaches: problem-solving, critical thinking, math

Ages it's best suited for: all ages

Where to watch: Disney+ and the Disney Channel

Educational Kids' Shows: "Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood"

What it's about: "The first TV series inspired by the iconic, award-winning "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood", "Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood" stars 4-year-old Daniel Tiger, son of the original program's Daniel Striped Tiger, who invites young viewers into his world, giving them a kid's-eye view of his life."

Concepts it teaches: practical strategies, social skills, imagination

Ages it's best suited for: 2 and up

Where to watch: PBS and YouTube TV

Educational Kids' Shows: "The Magic School Bus Rides Again"

What it's about: "Ms. Frizzle's kid sister Fiona takes the wheel at Walkerville Elementary, leading the class on wild adventures packed with science-fueled fun."

Concepts it teaches: science and nature

Ages it's best suited for: 5 and up

Where to watch: Netflix

Educational Kids' Shows: "Dinosaur Train"

What it's about: "'Dinosaur Train' is seen through the eyes of Buddy, a preschool-aged Tyrannosaurus Rex. Buddy and his adoptive family of Pteranodons go for adventures on the Dinosaur Train to meet all kinds of dinosaurs in different eras and learn fascinating new facts about these incredible creatures."

Concepts it teaches: life science, natural history, and scientific-thinking skills

Where to watch: YouTube TV

Educational Kids' Shows: "Curious George"

What it's about: "'Curious George' the television series is designed to inspire kids to explore science, math and engineering in the world around them in a fun and entertaining way. . . . Each half-hour episode includes two animated stories followed by short live-action pieces showing real kids who are investigating the ideas that George introduces in his stories. The series encourages inquiry and curiosity, promotes hands-on exploration, and shows parents and caregivers how to support children's science and math-related play."

Concepts it teaches: inquiry and curiosity, hands-on exploration (and it shows parents and caregivers how to support children's science- and math-related play!)

Where to watch: Hulu

Educational Kids' Shows: "Octonauts"

What it's about: "A team of brave underwater explorers known as the Octonauts combs the world's oceans for aquatic creatures in desperate need of assistance."

Concepts it teaches: marine animals, environmental awareness, and problem-solving

Educational Kids' Shows: "Ask the StoryBots"

What it's about: "Five curious little creatures track down the answers to kids' biggest questions, like how night happens or why we need to brush our teeth."

Concepts it teaches: curiosity, letters, and colors

Educational Kids' Shows: "Doc McStuffins"

What it's about: "With the help of her stuffed animal friends, Doc McStuffins runs a clinic for toys out of her playhouse."

Concepts it teaches: social skills, problem-solving, and basic health and medical concepts

Where to watch: Disney+ and Hulu

Educational Kids' Shows: "Clifford the Big Red Dog"

What it's about: "Based on the best-selling Scholastic book series by Norman Bridwell featuring the larger-than-life dog and his best friend Emily Elizabeth, the reimagined animated series offers a fresh and colorful new locations . . . teaching as it entertains with Clifford-sized humor."

Concepts it teaches: social-emotional skills, early literacy, imaginative play

Where to watch: PBS and Amazon Prime

Educational Kids' Shows: "Miles From Tomorrowland"

What it's about: "Blastastic! Join Miles and his intergalactic family as they venture out into outer space! Your wildest imagination is just the beginning in Tomorrowland!"

Concepts it teaches: astronomy concepts and vocabulary words, prereading skills

Ages it's best suited for: 4 and up

Where to watch: Disney+ and YouTube TV

Educational Kids' Shows: "Puffin Rock"

What it's about: "Life is sweet on beautiful Puffin Rock, where puffling Oona, her baby brother Baba, and their pals learn about nature, friendship, and family."

Concepts it teaches: nature, social-emotional skills

Educational Kids' Shows: "Handy Manny"

What it's about: "Handy Manny and his box of friendly, silly tools are the go-to guys in their neighborhood whenever a problem occurs. The series follows the humorous adventures of this warm-hearted fix-it man and his eclectic group of talking tools, while providing pre-school viewers with model conflict resolutions and problem solving skills. Handy Manny is a multi-cultural series about making things work."

Concepts it teaches: problem-solving

Where to watch: Disney+

Educational Kids' Shows: "Super Monsters"

What it's about: "Preschool kids whose parents are the world's most famous monsters try to master their special powers while preparing for kindergarten."

Concepts it teaches: positive behavior, social-emotional skills

Educational Kids' Shows: "Llama Llama"

What it's about: "Beloved children's book character Llama Llama springs to life in this heartwarming series about family, friendship, and learning new things."

Concepts it teaches: social-emotional skills, problem-solving

Educational Kids' Shows: "Muppet Babies"

What it's about: "The Muppet Babies are here to make dreams come true! Join Kermit, Piggy, Fozzie, Animal, Gonzo and Summer as they use their imagination for all kinds of playroom adventures!"

Concepts it teaches: imaginative play

Educational Kids' Shows: "The Ruff Ruffman Show"

What it's about: "'The Ruff Ruffman Show' is . . . designed to help kids ages 4-8 learn core science concepts through videos, game-play and hands-on activities. The PBS Kids series stars canine host extraordinaire Ruff Ruffman, who, along with his assistants Blossom and Chet, answers questions from real kids, takes on challenges and learns the value of perseverance."

Concepts it teaches: science and inquiry skills

Ages it's best suited for: 4-8

Where to watch: PBS

Educational Kids' Shows: "Little Einsteins"

What it's about: "This innovative new series provides preschoolers with new ways to hear and see music and art. In every episode, our four heroes meet at their backyard clubhouse and, before long, embark on a mission with a specific goal to reach."

Concepts it teaches: classical music and art, social-emotional skills, problem-solving

Educational Kids' Shows: "Treehouse Detectives"

What it's about: "When their animal friends need help, brother-and-sister team Toby and Teri use the clues and follow the facts to solve mysteries in their own backyard."

Concepts it teaches: science, nature, problem-solving

Educational Kids' Shows: "Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum"

What it's about: "Inspired by the best-selling kids book series, 'Ordinary People Change the World,' by New York Times bestselling author Brad Meltzer and illustrator Christopher Eliopoulos, 'Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum' follows the adventures of Xavier, Yadina and Brad as they tackle everyday problems by doing something extraordinary: traveling back in time to learn from real-life inspirational figures like Marie Curie, Harriet Tubman and Jackie Robinson when they were kids. Each adventure will help young viewers make the connection between the skills that made these historical figures heroes and those same qualities within themselves, helping them discover that they, too, can change the world."

Concepts it teaches: history, social-emotional skills

Ages it's best suited for: 8 and up

Educational Kids' Shows: "Odd Squad"

What it's about: "The show focuses on the Odd Squad, a kid-run agency whose mission is to save the day whenever something unusual happens. A math concept is embedded in each of their cases, as the agents work together to problem-solve and set things right in each episode."

Concepts it teaches: math, problem-solving skills

Ages it's best suited for: 5-8

Educational Kids' Shows: "Arthur"

https://pbskids.org/video/arthur/2365285786What it's about: "'Arthur,' based on the best-selling books by Marc Brown, is television's longest-running children's animated series. The iconic series has touched audiences around the world with its heartfelt and humorous stories about family, friends, and the challenges of growing up."

Concepts it teaches: empathy, morality, and perspective

Educational Kids' Shows: "The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That!"

What it's about: "Voiced by award-winning actor Martin Short, Dr. Seuss's 'The Cat in the Hat' guides friends Sally and Nick — with a little help from the Fish, Thing 1 and Thing 2 — on fun-filled adventures where they make natural-science discoveries, from how bees make honey to why owls sleep during the day."

Concepts it teaches: curiosity, scientific exploration, and discovery

Educational Kids' Shows: "Cyberchase"

What it's about: "In the world of 'Cyberchase,' the dastardly villain Hacker is on a mad mission to take over Cyberspace with the help of his blundering henchbots, Buzz and Delete. But heroes Inez, Jackie, and Matt, are three curious kids determined to stop him with the help of their cyber pal, Digit. Their weapon: brain power."

Concepts it teaches: problem-solving, math

Educational Kids' Shows: "Nature Cat"

What it's about: "Grounded in a natural science curriculum, 'Nature Cat' is designed to encourage children ages 3-8 to go outside and explore the outdoors, while learning about a variety of scientific topics along the way. 'Nature Cat' follows Fred, a house cat who dreams of exploring the great outdoors."

Concepts it teaches: nature investigation, science

Ages it's best suited for: 3-8

Educational Kids' Shows: "Word Party"

What it's about: "Meet Bailey, Franny, Kip, and Lulu. They're adorable baby animals, and they want you to join the party and help them learn!"

Concepts it teaches: word meanings and concepts

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15 Best Maths, Science and Literacy TV Shows for Kids

Are you looking to make screen time as beneficial as you can? We have searched the 15 best Maths, Science and Literacy TV shows for kids that will make screen time worthwhile.

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After a long day at school, children normally wants to have a rest on a couch and watch Tv. But who says TV time can’t be educational. We have compiled a list of TV shows that will keep kids entertained while teaching them lessons. From counting to problem-solving, phonics to spelling and science to nature we have covered everything.

Image via PBSKids

The amazing peg + cat show focus on teaching children to overcome obstacles in a fun way. In each episode, Peg and her cat face a new maths problem that they must solve to move ahead. Children will learn how to solve maths skills in a fun way. Maths won’t be a dry and boring topic for them. Watch on YouTube now.

• Monster Math squad

Image via YouTube

The Tv show features three monsters named Max, Lilly and goes who go on different missions where they have to solve different maths problems. Monsters are best at solving the problem and completing their missions.

• Numberblocks

Image via BBC

The number blocks are the children’s ultimate favourite. From number bonds to patterns, missing numbers to solving equations you will learn all the basic concept of maths with 10 friends. Have tons of the fun with number blocks.

This amazing program will give a head start to children as young as 2 years. Children will start recognising numbers. It will also help them to learn addition, subtraction, patterns, less or more and other skills that learn in Reception and Year 1. Get your first Number Blocks DVD from amazon now or watch on BBC iplayer today.

• Team Umizoomi

Image via PlayPilot

Team umizoomi is an animated TV show targeted at young pre-schoolers. The fun TV show emphasis on preschool mathematical concepts, such as counting, sequences, shapes, patterns, measurements, and comparisons. The team umizoomi consist of 6-year-old Milli, her brother Geo, who’s 8, and their friendly robot named Bot. Together they solve the Maths problems which are sent to them via umi alarm. Available on Amazon Prime:

Image via PBSkids

The award-winning animated television series focuses around three curious children named Jackie, Matt, and Inez who were brought into cyberspace to save the world from the Villain Hacker. The children use their maths and problem-solving skills to outsmart the horrible Hacker from taking over Cyberspace.

• Martha Speaks

Martha Speaks is based on children book by Susan Meddaugh’s. In this show, a family dog ate a magical alphabet soup which gives him the ability to speak. The show teaches young watchers vocabulary and synonyms in a fun and eye-catching way. Watch on prime video today!

Image via ABC iView

Wallykazam is a fun animated Tv show for pre-schoolers created on the adventures on 6-year-old troll named Wally troll man. Wally has the powers to make words come to life with his magic wand but sometimes the adventures do go wrong so wally has to be very careful. The show teaches children how to sound out words, letter-sound association and spellings.

• Alphablocks

Image via Cbeebies

Alphablocks is a famous show by Cbeebies. 26 living alphabets tell stories and make words using phonics.  The fun alphabets also introduce new vocabulary in a very interesting way. Let the children imagination fly will this amazing show. Watch now on BBC iPlayer.

Image via FANDOM

Image via PBS

Four friends turn into superheroes before jumping into a storybook where they have to solve the problem of the day. They need to collect clues and alphabets to get one final answer for the day’s problem.

The show teaches the importance of teamwork, communication, and compassion along with key reading skills like introducing alphabets, teaching letter sounds, spelling, and word recognition. Two seasons are available on Amazon Prime Video.

• Sid the science kid

Image via Jim Hanson company

Sid the Science kid is an award-winning television program by PBS Kids. A young boy named Sid constantly looks for answers in the field of science. The program is fun and enjoyable for kids as it has plenty of comedy and music.

• The cat in the hat knows all about that

The Cat in the hat knows nearly everything. Cat takes his youngster friends Nick and Sally on educational adventures in his amazing car Thinga-ma-jigger where they learn about natural science. The show is planned to inspire children’s literacy in science. The TV show is available on Netflix.

• Magic school bus:

Image via Amazon

This hit animated tv series features Ms Frizzle’s Magic school bus that turns into a spaceship, a submarine, a blimp, and more to travel outer space, under the sea and even inside the human body. Get ready for the amazing adventure where children will learn about bugs, sea creatures, the solar system, bacteria, the human body and much more!

• The Dr. Binocs show

Image via Pinterest

Dr Binocs offers plenty of learning he takes you through a variety of interesting topics like volcanos, water cycles, gravity, five senses and many more.

• Messy goes to Okido

Image via Okido

Messy is a curious and fun-loving monster that explores science-related questions with his friends in the most fun and creative way.

Related: 11 Best Educational Magazines for kids

We hope you enjoyed watching these amazing programs with your kids. Let us know what is your favourite TV show for kids in the comments box below.

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The Best PBS Kids TV Shows Ever, Ranked

If you were a kid in the 90s or 2000s, you probably have seen several of the best PBS kids TV shows . Many of those PBS kids shows are actually still around and more popular than ever. But out of all those programs, which was the most popular show to ever air on PBS? Was it Sesame Street or Berenstain Bears ? Fellow fans rank their favorite PBS kids TV shows below. Don't agree with the rankings below? Feel free to vote shows up or down. Better yet, you can rerank the list yourself.

This list of the top current and canceled PBS Kids TV series includes the date when each show first aired, as well as which actors starred in the show. The best PBS Kids TV programs of all time include the most viewed shows on PBS Kids, as this list covers the entire history of the network. Old PBS Kids shows were truly the best, as '90s PBS shows brought tons of color and adventure to old little kids shows. PBS Kids shows from the '90s especially stood out on TV to many generation Y and Z kids. But you'll be glad to know that PBS Kids is still home to some of the best childrens' television shows today, with series such as Molly of Denali , Esme & Roy , and Let's Go Luna!  PBS Kids show's in the 2000's do not dissapoint! 

Although the network is primarily dominated with cartoons, you can find a couple of live action shows mixed in there as well. Classic cartoons, like Arthur and Curious George, are featured on PBS Kids, and more recent shows, like Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood have a place there as well. Live action shows like Zoom and Zoboomafoo are also available.

Television fans in different locations may have grown up with PBS Kids shows on different channels, but the top TV shows on PBS Kids should be pretty familiar to everyone. The list of top PBS Kids television shows below includes cast, creator, and premiere date when available. This list contains only TV series on the PBS Kids network, even cancelled PBS Kids shows. Vote up the best shows on PBS Kids below and let us know your favorite old kids shows on the PBS network.

The Magic School Bus

The Magic School Bus masterfully combines education with entertainment, as it follows the wacky adventures of Ms. Frizzle and her students aboard their shape-shifting school bus. This beloved show employs whimsical storytelling to explore scientific concepts in an accessible way for children, while instilling a sense of wonder and curiosity about the world around them. Its diverse cast of characters ensures that every child can identify with someone on screen, and the clever integration of humor keeps both kids and their parents engaged. Ultimately, The Magic School Bus exemplifies the PBS mission to educate and inspire, while remaining fun and family-friendly.

Is The Magic School Bus Worth Your Time?

Arthur stands out in the realm of children's programming due to its relatable stories, timeless lessons, and a strong emphasis on character development. Centered on the life of an adorable aardvark named Arthur, the show tackles real-life issues that kids face daily, such as friendship, bullying, and family dynamics. The racially and culturally diverse cast allows children from various backgrounds to feel represented and understood, while the heartfelt narratives stress the importance of empathy, kindness, and open-mindedness. Arthur embodies the essence of family-friendly programming, proving that PBS excels at creating content that is both enjoyable and valuable for young viewers.

Is Arthur Worth Your Time?

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• # 80 of 540 on The 500+ Best Cartoons Of All Time, Ranked

Curious George

Curious George holds a special place in the hearts of children and parents alike, as it chronicles the endearing misadventures of a mischievous monkey and his steadfast human companion, The Man with the Yellow Hat. The show's gentle exploration of George's curiosity teaches valuable life lessons about inquiry, experimentation, and perseverance, making even the smallest tasks a learning experience. By introducing relatable characters and easily digestible science concepts, Curious George fosters a love for learning in its viewers and demonstrates the importance of asking questions. This charming series showcases the unique ability of PBS programs to create nurturing and educational content for the whole family.

Is Curious George Worth Your Time?

• # 97 of 540 on The 500+ Best Cartoons Of All Time, Ranked
• # 108 of 578 on The 500+ Best Animated TV Shows Ever Made
• # 68 of 420 on The 385 Popular Children Cartoons

Dragon Tales

Dragon Tales whisks children away to a fantastical world populated by loveable dragons, all while fostering important life skills and values. By following the adventures of siblings Emmy and Max, the show encourages children to embrace their imagination and step outside their comfort zones. At the heart of each episode lies a crucial lesson in problem-solving, teamwork, or emotional intelligence, illustrating that even in a world of magic and dragon friends, understanding and cooperation are key to success. Dragon Tales exemplifies the power of PBS shows to engage young minds while weaving in essential character-building themes.

Is Dragon Tales Worth Your Time?

• # 153 of 540 on The 500+ Best Cartoons Of All Time, Ranked
• # 113 of 193 on 190+ Saturday Morning Cartoons From The '80s And '90s
• # 114 of 578 on The 500+ Best Animated TV Shows Ever Made

The Berenstain Bears

The Berenstain Bears captures the hearts of audiences with its lovable bear family, offering heartwarming life lessons and wholesome entertainment. Through the exploits of Brother, Sister, Papa, and Mama Bear, the show seamlessly addresses important topics such as responsibility, honesty, and self-confidence. Its enduring appeal lies in its relatable stories and timeless values that resonate with both children and parents. The Berenstain Bears is a prime example of PBS's commitment to delivering meaningful, family-friendly content that transcends generations.

Is The Berenstain Bears Worth Your Time?

• # 118 of 540 on The 500+ Best Cartoons Of All Time, Ranked
• # 124 of 578 on The 500+ Best Animated TV Shows Ever Made
• # 48 of 420 on The 385 Popular Children Cartoons

Mister Rogers' Neighborhood

Mister Rogers' Neighborhood is a timeless treasure that has touched the lives of countless children and families, providing a safe and nurturing space for exploration and learning. The show, centered around the gentle wisdom of Fred Rogers, emphasizes the importance of kindness, empathy, and understanding in everyday situations. Through engaging puppetry, imaginative storytelling, and heartfelt conversation, Mister Rogers' Neighborhood fosters emotional intelligence and instills a strong sense of security in its viewers. This iconic series is a shining example of PBS's dedication to creating programming that genuinely enriches the lives of its audience.

Is Mister Rogers' Neighbo... Worth Your Time?

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• # 24 of 343 on The Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
• # 11 of 64 on The 60+ Best Daytime TV Shows

Sesame Street

Sesame Street is a cultural phenomenon that revolutionized children's television by combining education and entertainment with its colorful cast of Muppets, humans, and animated segments. For over five decades, the show has tackled critical issues such as diversity, inclusivity, and social-emotional development, creating a lasting impact on generations of viewers. Sesame Street's innovative approach to learning and its commitment to celebrating differences have established it as a cornerstone of PBS's mission to provide meaningful, accessible content for all. As a trailblazer in children's programming, Sesame Street remains an undisputed classic that continues to captivate and educate.

Is Sesame Street Worth Your Time?

• Dig Deeper... Behind-The-Scenes Stories From ‘Sesame Street’
• And Deeper... Celebrities Share Their Experiences Being On ‘Sesame Street’
• # 57 of 302 on The Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years

Cyberchase cleverly weaves mathematical concepts into action-packed adventures, making learning fun and engaging for children. The show follows a diverse group of kids who use their problem-solving skills to outwit the dastardly villain, Hacker, in a vibrant digital universe. By presenting maths as an essential tool for overcoming challenges, Cyberchase fosters critical thinking and nurtures a growth mindset in its viewers. This imaginative series highlights PBS's dedication to delivering educational content that captivates children and encourages them to embrace new challenges.

Is Cyberchase Worth Your Time?

• # 407 of 540 on The 500+ Best Cartoons Of All Time, Ranked
• # 207 of 420 on The 385 Popular Children Cartoons
• # 8 of 42 on The Best PBS Cartoons of All Time

Zoboomafoo brings the wonders of the animal kingdom to life, fostering an appreciation for nature and environmental conservation in young viewers. Hosted by the Kratt brothers and their endearing lemur sidekick Zoboo, the show offers an entertaining mix of live-action segments, claymation, and puppetry to introduce a wide variety of creatures and their habitats. Its unique blend of storytelling, humor, and educational content exemplifies PBS's commitment to inspiring curiosity and nurturing a love for learning. Zoboomafoo stands as a captivating, family-friendly show that encourages children to explore and protect the world around them.

Is Zoboomafoo Worth Your Time?

• # 7 of 42 on The Best PBS Cartoons of All Time
• # 7 of 12 on Facts About '90s PBS Shows We Just Learned That Made Us Say 'Really?'
• # 5 of 98 on The Most Chill Nature & Animal Shows To Watch High

Wild Kratts

Wild Kratts invites young viewers on thrilling animal adventures, seamlessly blending education with entertainment in its exploration of fascinating wildlife. The Kratt brothers utilize their animated "creature power" suits to dive deep into the natural world, uncovering the unique abilities and features of various species. Through captivating storytelling and vivid animation, the show instills a sense of awe and respect for nature, inspiring children to become advocates for wildlife and conservation. Wild Kratts showcases the best of PBS programming by fostering curiosity, understanding, and appreciation for the world around us.

Is Wild Kratts Worth Your Time?

• # 434 of 540 on The 500+ Best Cartoons Of All Time, Ranked
• # 151 of 420 on The 385 Popular Children Cartoons
• # 10 of 42 on The Best PBS Cartoons of All Time

Bill Nye the Science Guy

Bill Nye the Science Guy is a groundbreaking educational show that makes complex scientific concepts accessible and enjoyable for children. By employing humor, engaging demonstrations, and an energetic host in Bill Nye, the show covers topics ranging from physics to biology, sparking a passion for learning in young viewers. Its unique approach to science education—combining entertainment with learning—exemplifies PBS's dedication to inspiring curiosity. Bill Nye the Science Guy has left a lasting impact on generations of budding scientists, proving the power of engaging, family-friendly content.

Is Bill Nye the Science G... Worth Your Time?

• # 27 of 71 on The Best After School Shows from the '90s
• # 122 of 298 on 285+ Smart TV Shows That Only Intellectuals Appreciate
• # 264 of 388 on The Best Guilty Pleasure TV Shows

Fetch! with Ruff Ruffman

Fetch! with Ruff Ruffman combines reality television with animated storytelling to create an immersive, interactive learning experience for children. The show follows the antics of Ruff, a loveable cartoon dog, as he sends real-life kid contestants on various challenges to uncover scientific principles. Its blend of humor, adventure, and education keeps both young viewers and their families engaged, while fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Fetch! with Ruff Ruffman demonstrates PBS's commitment to creating innovative, family-friendly content that entertains and educates.

Is Fetch! with Ruff Ruffm... Worth Your Time?

• # 14 of 42 on The Best PBS Cartoons of All Time
• # 84 of 195 on The 180+ Best Kid Shows Of All Time
• # 13 of 81 on Good TV Shows for 5 Year Olds

Clifford's Puppy Days

Clifford's Puppy Day s captures the charm and heart of its predecessor, Clifford the Big Red Dog , while exploring the adventures of a younger, smaller Clifford. Set in the bustling city, the show teaches valuable life lessons and social skills through the eyes of an adorable puppy. Its diverse and inclusive cast promotes empathy, understanding, and compassion, reinforcing the importance of kindness in everyday life. Clifford's Puppy Days upholds the best qualities of PBS programming, providing wholesome, family-friendly entertainment with meaningful messages.

Is Clifford's Puppy Days... Worth Your Time?

• # 287 of 540 on The 500+ Best Cartoons Of All Time, Ranked
• # 9 of 42 on The Best PBS Cartoons of All Time
• # 128 of 198 on The 200+ Best Cartoon Theme Songs

Martha Speaks

Martha Speaks combines lovable characters, captivating storytelling, and an engaging premise to encourage language development in young viewers. Centered on a talking dog named Martha, whose ability to speak comes from eating alphabet soup, the show introduces children to new vocabulary words in the context of entertaining and relatable stories. Its focus on language acquisition and clear articulation aligns with PBS's mission to provide educational, family-friendly content that supports early learning. Martha Speaks showcases the power of engaging programming to inspire a love of language in children.

Is Martha Speaks Worth Your Time?

• # 206 of 420 on The 385 Popular Children Cartoons
• # 11 of 42 on The Best PBS Cartoons of All Time
• # 196 of 198 on The 200+ Best Cartoon Theme Songs

Between the Lions

Between the Lions is an innovative literacy-based show that uses a blend of puppetry, live-action, and animation to foster a love for reading in young viewers. Set in a magical library run by a family of lions, the show teaches essential reading skills such as letter recognition, phonics, and comprehension through engaging stories and catchy songs. Its unique approach to teaching literacy skills exemplifies PBS's commitment to providing high-quality, family-friendly programming that supports early learning. Between the Lions has left a lasting impact on generations of children, opening the door to the joy of reading.

Is Between the Lions Worth Your Time?

• # 197 of 198 on The 200+ Best Cartoon Theme Songs
• # 8 of 43 on The Best Puppet TV Shows
• # 22 of 67 on The 60+ Best Educational TV Shows

Dinosaur Train

Dinosaur Train captivates young viewers with its enchanting premise—a time-traveling train that takes a family of dinosaurs on adventures through prehistoric Earth. Along the way, the show imparts valuable lessons about science, paleontology, and natural history in an accessible and engaging manner. With a diverse cast of dinosaur characters, Dinosaur Train fosters curiosity and imagination, while promoting a love for learning and exploration. This charming series highlights PBS’s dedication to creating family-friendly content that is both entertaining and educational.

Is Dinosaur Train Worth Your Time?

• # 230 of 420 on The 385 Popular Children Cartoons
• # 21 of 42 on The Best PBS Cartoons of All Time
• # 161 of 198 on The 200+ Best Cartoon Theme Songs

Reading Rainbow

Reading Rainbow is a beloved, classic PBS show that has fostered a love for reading in generations of children. Hosted by the charismatic LeVar Burton, the show introduces young viewers to new books, authors, and illustrators, sparking their imagination and curiosity. Through engaging storytelling, vivid animation, and a strong emphasis on literacy, Reading Rainbow has left a lasting impact on millions of children, proving the power of family-friendly programming to inspire and nurture a lifelong love of reading.

Is Reading Rainbow Worth Your Time?

• # 65 of 343 on The Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
• # 91 of 298 on 285+ Smart TV Shows That Only Intellectuals Appreciate
• # 129 of 225 on The Best TV Shows To Rewatch

WordGirl is an action-packed educational show that empowers young viewers by combining superhero adventures with vocabulary-building lessons. The show follows the escapades of WordGirl, a superheroine who uses her extensive vocabulary and quick wit to outsmart and defeat villains. Its clever blend of humor, adventure, and learning keeps children engaged and entertained while expanding their language skills. WordGirl exemplifies PBS's ability to create innovative, family-friendly content that inspires a love for learning in young viewers.

Is WordGirl Worth Your Time?

Bob the Builder

Bob the Builder is a charming animated series that combines colorful characters, engaging stories, and valuable life lessons. Centered on the adventures of Bob, a builder, and his crew of anthropomorphic construction vehicles, the show teaches children the importance of teamwork, problem-solving, and perseverance. Its focus on collaboration and community-building exemplifies the core values of PBS's family-friendly programming. Bob the Builder has captivated young viewers for years, providing wholesome entertainment and essential life skills.

Is Bob the Builder Worth Your Time?

• # 143 of 540 on The 500+ Best Cartoons Of All Time, Ranked
• # 178 of 578 on The 500+ Best Animated TV Shows Ever Made
• # 103 of 420 on The 385 Popular Children Cartoons

WordWorld is an inventive show that brings the magic of words to life through charming storytelling and captivating animation. Set in a world where everything is made of letters, the show encourages early literacy skills by teaching letter recognition, phonics, and word formation in a visually engaging way. Its unique approach to language learning and development highlights PBS's dedication to providing high-quality, family-friendly content that supports early education. WordWorld inspires young viewers to see the power and joy in words, setting the foundation for a lifelong love of reading and learning.

Is WordWorld Worth Your Time?

Maya & Miguel

Maya & Miguel is a delightful animated series that celebrates cultural diversity, friendship, and the importance of family values. Centered on the lives of twins Maya and Miguel Santos, the show introduces viewers to various aspects of Latino culture, language, and traditions, while promoting understanding and acceptance. Its emphasis on inclusivity and empathy makes it a perfect example of PBS's commitment to creating programming that fosters positive social skills and values. Maya & Miguel showcases the power of storytelling to inspire children to celebrate and respect each other's differences.

Is Maya & Miguel Worth Your Time?

Clifford The Big Red Dog

Clifford The Big Red Dog is a heartwarming animated series that follows the adventures of Clifford, an enormous red dog, and his loving owner, Emily Elizabeth. Set in the sunny town of Birdwell Island, the show teaches valuable life lessons about friendship, empathy, and compassion through engaging stories and lovable characters. Its timeless appeal and universal themes make it a perfect example of PBS's commitment to creating wholesome, family-friendly content that resonates with young viewers. Clifford The Big Red Dog has captured the hearts of generations, inspiring kindness and understanding in children.

Is Clifford The Big Red D... Worth Your Time?

• # 117 of 540 on The 500+ Best Cartoons Of All Time, Ranked
• # 117 of 578 on The 500+ Best Animated TV Shows Ever Made
• # 2 of 42 on The Best PBS Cartoons of All Time

Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends

Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends is a classic children's show that brings the beloved stories of the railway world to life through engaging animation and heartwarming narratives. Centered on the adventures of Thomas, a cheeky blue steam engine, and his friends, the show emphasizes the importance of teamwork, cooperation, and hard work. Its timeless appeal and universal themes have endeared it to generations of young viewers, showcasing PBS's commitment to providing wholesome, family-friendly content with enduring life lessons.

Is Thomas the Tank Engine... Worth Your Time?

• Dig Deeper... The History Behind 'Thomas The Tank Engine' Is Actually Really Dark
• # 258 of 540 on The 500+ Best Cartoons Of All Time, Ranked
• # 119 of 578 on The 500+ Best Animated TV Shows Ever Made

The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That!

The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That! takes young viewers on a whirlwind of scientific adventures, introducing them to fascinating facts and concepts in a fun, accessible manner. Based on the iconic Dr. Seuss character, the show encourages curiosity and exploration through its engaging storytelling and vibrant animation. Its unique blend of adventure, humor, and education exemplifies the best qualities of PBS programming, demonstrating the network's dedication to creating content that both entertains and enlightens.

Is The Cat in the Hat Kno... Worth Your Time?

• # 232 of 420 on The 385 Popular Children Cartoons
• # 25 of 42 on The Best PBS Cartoons of All Time
• # 187 of 198 on The 200+ Best Cartoon Theme Songs

Angelina Ballerina

Angelina Ballerina is a delightful animated show that follows the dreams and aspirations of a young mouse named Angelina, who wants to become a famous ballet dancer . The series uses enchanting storytelling, captivating dance sequences, and relatable characters to teach children about dedication, determination, and friendship. Its emphasis on perseverance and following one's dreams aligns with the core values of PBS's family-friendly programming. Angelina Ballerina has captured the hearts of young viewers, inspiring them to chase their dreams with passion and grace.

Is Angelina Ballerina Worth Your Time?

• # 177 of 420 on The 385 Popular Children Cartoons
• # 30 of 42 on The Best PBS Cartoons of All Time
• # 34 of 73 on Good TV Shows for 4 Year Olds

Liberty's Kids

Liberty's Kids is an engaging and educational animated series that brings American history to life for young viewers. Set during the Revolutionary War, the show follows a group of young reporters as they witness and document the events that shaped the United States. By combining historical accuracy with thrilling storytelling, Liberty's Kids fosters a love for history and encourages critical thinking about the past. This captivating series showcases PBS's commitment to providing high-quality, family-friendly content that enriches and inspires.

Is Liberty's Kids Worth Your Time?

Wishbone is a uniquely creative show that introduces children to classic literature through the imaginative adventures of a loveable Jack Russell terrier. As Wishbone takes on the roles of iconic literary characters, he brings timeless tales to life in a way that is accessible and engaging for young viewers. The show encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and a love for reading, exemplifying PBS's dedication to providing educational, family-friendly programming. Wishbone has left a lasting impact on generations of children, fostering a lifelong appreciation for literature and learning.

Is Wishbone Worth Your Time?

• # 152 of 420 on The 385 Popular Children Cartoons
• # 47 of 71 on The Best After School Shows from the '90s
• # 2 of 12 on Facts About '90s PBS Shows We Just Learned That Made Us Say 'Really?'

Super Why! is an innovative literacy-based show that uses interactive storytelling and engaging animation to teach essential reading skills to young viewers. Centered around a team of four fairytale-inspired superheroes, the show helps children build important literacy skills such as letter recognition, phonics, and comprehension. Its unique approach to teaching reading skills makes Super Why! a standout example of PBS's dedication to providing high-quality, family-friendly content that supports early learning. With its captivating stories and interactive elements, Super Why! inspires a love for reading and learning in young viewers.

Is Super Why! Worth Your Time?

• # 487 of 540 on The 500+ Best Cartoons Of All Time, Ranked
• # 216 of 420 on The 385 Popular Children Cartoons
• # 18 of 42 on The Best PBS Cartoons of All Time

Zoom is a groundbreaking show that empowered kids to think, create, and explore through hands-on projects, experiments, and activities. Featuring a diverse cast of real children as hosts, the show encouraged audience participation and fostered a sense of community among viewers. Its emphasis on creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration highlights PBS's commitment to creating programming that nurtures essential life skills and values. Zoom has left a lasting impact on generations of children, proving the power of engaging, family-friendly content to inspire curiosity and lifelong learning.

Is Zoom Worth Your Time?

• # 24 of 42 on The Best PBS Cartoons of All Time
• # 67 of 71 on The Best After School Shows from the '90s
• # 151 of 195 on The 180+ Best Kid Shows Of All Time
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12 Kids' TV Shows That Experts Let Their Own Children Watch

Senior Reporter, HuffPost Life

Plenty of parents these days are thinking about how their kids use electronic devices. According to a 2020 Pew Research Center survey , 71% of U.S. parents with a kid under the age of 12 say they’re at least somewhat concerned about their child spending too much time on screens, and 31% say they’re very concerned.

There’s also a lot of fearmongering about how watching TV affects kids, particularly little ones. But studies on the subject — like this one that shows a link between TV viewing before age 3 and lower test scores at ages 6 and 7 — leave something to be desired. As health economist and “The Family Firm” author Emily Oster points out, kids who watch more TV at young ages tend to be different than kids who don’t in terms of household income, racial background and parents’ education level. So it’s “difficult to draw strong conclusions” from the data, Oster wrote in a piece for FiveThirtyEight .

Watching TV isn’t inherently bad , but it does take time away from other activities kids could be doing, like playing with family or friends, running around outside, coloring or reading books. It’s good to be mindful of your child’s TV consumption, but busy parents know that sometimes putting on a show is the only realistic way to a keep a child occupied for a block of time so caregivers can cook, clean, work or relax. And that’s not something they should be judged for.

Pediatric speech pathologist Deborah Brooks said she personally doesn’t have strong feelings for or against kids watching TV. But she thinks it’s important for families to do what’s best for them.

“Nothing can replace the benefits of one-on-one human interaction,” Brooks told HuffPost. “Nonetheless, TV shows and movies allow for bonding as well. Children may spend time with a family member watching, and this time is also valuable. As a working mom, watching a show also allows me a short period of time to answer emails, wash dishes or put clothes away.”

If you’re trying to find quality kids’ TV that isn’t a drag for parents to watch too, we’ve got you covered. We asked a range of child development experts which shows they personally approve of their kids watching, and why.

“Just this weekend I was on a ‘Bluey’ binge with my daughter as she was sick. This is at the top of my list because not only is this entertaining for kids but I enjoy watching it just as much as they do! I find myself laughing (and crying) as I relate to so many different situations that the characters go through. It is educational as kids learn about communication, problem-solving skills and how to deal with different emotions.

“‘Bluey’ also provides lots of great examples for parents on how to play with their kids. ‘Tickle Crabs’ is an episode that I have played out with my kids many times and they still request it on a frequent basis!” — Kayla O’Neill , developmental therapist , parent of a 4-year-old and a 7-year-old

2. ‘Bubble Guppies’

“‘Bubble Guppies’ includes a diverse classroom of children who enjoy learning through imaginative play at school with their teacher. We’ve learned about weather, shapes, colors, different hair types, geography, and more through this show. My daughter also loves the music and we frequently listen to this album while driving.” — Lauren Shuffrey , developmental neuroscientist and researcher at Columbia University Medical Center, parent of a 2-year-old

3. ‘Ms. Rachel/Songs For Littles’

“[Ms. Rachel’s] show ‘Songs For Littles’ is interactive and creates multiple opportunities for children to engage in activities, respond to questions and repeat basic words and phrases. The cast is diverse and the subject matter is educational and inclusive. Furthermore, it’s a show I enjoy watching. At this time in our lives, I have the luxury of avoiding shows I don’t feel like watching!” — Deborah Brooks , pediatric speech pathologist, parent of a 19-month-old

4. ‘The Adventures Of Kid Danger’

“I like ‘Kid Danger,’ a show I watch with my kids, excitedly. It has a fallible superhero and a bunch of cute, smart kids. I like it because it’s a smart script and it shows relationship-building. The characters problem-solve as a team.” — Sanam Hafeez , neuropsychologist, parent of 7-year-old twins

5. ‘Limitless’

“My kids found out about this show on their own, asked me about it, and I watched a few episodes with them. In this show, Chris Hemsworth challenges himself to unlock our body and mind’s full potential. Through a series of challenges, he uncovers what the human mind, body and spirit can handle and overcome.

“I love how much they learn about their mental and physical health, acceptance and working through fears. It’s a really great show that’s very well-done. It’s rated TV-14, but I found it was very appropriate for them.” — Ann-Louise Lockhart , pediatric psychologist , parent of a 10-year-old and a 12-year-old

6. ‘Daniel Tiger’

“‘Daniel Tiger’ has been one of my favorites over the years because it teaches lessons on being kind and compassionate to others. It also provides a safe, comforting environment, as the characters learn how to manage their emotions in difficult situations while having fun with friends.

“I have had my children watch episodes before certain events such as doctor and dentist appointments as a way to make them more comfortable, as they see Daniel navigate the scenarios that they may be a bit afraid of.” — O’Neill

7. ‘Wild Kratts’

“‘Wild Kratts’ is a show both my kids enjoy watching. Both of my children love animals and this show teaches them about animals and animal behavior. My husband used to watch the original Kratts Brothers show in [the] ’90s and introduced them to the newer series.” — Dr. Stephanie Liu , family medicine doctor and creator behind @LifeOfDrMom , parent of a 3-year-old and a 6-year-old

8. ‘Curious George’

“I used to love ‘Curious George’ when they were little. That monkey is so smart and I loved how kids learned so much from watching George interact with humans. There was knowledge and smart thinking involved, which at their age of 2 to 4 was simply brilliant. The plots were always so good.” — Hafeez

9. ‘Sesame Street’

“‘Sesame Street’ is filled with songs and actual human characters alongside the beloved monsters, interacting, problem-solving, and learning. There are a variety of music and sketch segments that promote entertainment and learning. The cast is diverse and the subject matter is inclusive.” — Brooks

10. ‘Teen Titans Go’

“My kids love ‘Teen Titans Go’! It’s an animated series that has been on for a long time. It’s a show I really enjoy watching with them, because it’s really hilarious and makes a ton of references to ’80s music, movies and TV shows (my generation). I love explaining a reference they’ve made that my kids don’t quite get and love their reaction and greater appreciation for the joke once they really get it.

“Although it is an animated cartoon series with potty humor and various popular references, the show teaches certain things in an unconventional sort of way. For example, there is an episode where they talked about Daylight Savings, which was completely ridiculous, but it was genius. It actually opened the door to explain what DST really is and why it exists. My kids and I love to laugh and I find a lot of things funny, so this is a great show for all of that.” — Lockhart

11. ‘Cosmic Kids Yoga’

“With winter setting in, ‘Cosmic Kids Yoga’ will be a go-to at my house as a way for my kiddos to add movement to their day as well as learn about mindfulness and breathing. Not only does ‘Cosmic Kids’ provide physical benefits, but the storytelling that is paired with it takes it to the next level. Imagination is encouraged and stories come alive as my kids move along to the different poses. It is also great for parents because we can join in with our kids, allowing us some time together while getting a workout!” — O’Neill

12. ‘The Dr. Binocs Show’

“My daughter and I both like watching ‘Dr. Binocs.’ The show talks about everything from science to geography to history, etc. The animations, music and sounds make it engaging for parents and kids to watch together.” — Liu

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4 Kids TV Shows That Actually Teach Valuable Life Lessons

Discover an early childhood psychologist's take on the best programming for young kids.

Screen time for younger kids can come with mixed emotions for parents. Smartphones, tablets, and televisions aren't always seen as the best thing for a child's brain development—and for good reason .

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) discourages all screen time (other than video chatting) for children younger than 18 months and recommends that any digital media introduced between 18 and 24 months be "high quality" and used together with caregivers. By age 2, the AAP recommends limiting screen use to an hour or less per day.

Still, as anyone who has watched Fred Rogers', aka Mister Rogers', now viral  six-minute U.S. Senate testimony from 1969 advocating for increased funding for public childhood shows can tell you, some screens—and more importantly, a certain type of programming—can play an important, positive role in a young child's development.

In fact, a  study from Texas Tech University on the PBS show  Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood  (an extension of the classic  Mister Rogers' Neighborhood ) found that watching the program resulted in greater emotional recognition, empathy, and self-efficacy in preschoolers.

So, what shows should you choose for your child's limited screen time? Read on to learn about what the experts say.

What Experts Say About Children's Programming

As any parent likely knows, screens can provide much-needed respite for cooped-up kids and their caregivers. But not all children's programming is created equal—and it's not just the shows you choose for your kids that matter.

While the Texas Tech University study findings suggest that there are potential benefits to shows like Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood , the findings come with a caveat: The children only displayed the positive traits researchers identified when their parents consistently talked to them about what they were watching. That is to say that it wasn't the show alone that positively influenced the children's behavior.

Karen Molano, Psy.D. , a psychologist specializing in infants and early childhood, adds that certain programs can provide an opportune moment for parents to teach kids valuable lessons about family and relationships with others.

"When a caregiver interacts with a child while watching a show, the higher [the] likelihood that the child will retain the information and use it or reenact it in real life," she explains. "When young children see characters that they can relate to, they are likely to reenact what they see in real life, especially through pretend play, which gives them more opportunities to practice those skills."

TV Shows That Can Teach Valuable Lessons

While it's not necessary for parents to watch all programs with their children, occasionally choosing (and joint viewing) a show can be beneficial for families.

Here are four of Dr. Molano's top television choices that help to teach valuable lessons—for both kids and parents.

For discussing tough subjects with sensitivity: Ask the StoryBots

Ask the StoryBots on Netflix is great for discussing tough subjects with sensitivity and is geared toward audiences aged 3 and up.

"StoryBots is at the top of my list when it comes to educational programming for children," explains Dr. Molano. "Research shows that children learn information best when it's presented in a rhythmic, repetitive, and relational manner, which is exactly what this show does."

The premise is straightforward: Ask a single question and spend the episode answering it. But what makes it unique is the depth of the questions, including titles ranging from "Why do we need to recycle?" to "Why do people look different?"

For compassion and kindness: Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood

Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood on PBS Kids is excellent at teaching kids compassion and kindness toward others. This show is created for kids ages 2 and up.

For parents who grew up watching Mister Rogers' Neighborhood , this modern-day animated series should look and feel familiar, moving through episodes centered around compassion, kindness, and relationships with others. "The show emphasizes the importance of loved ones and how families can support one another in a way that makes children feel safe," says Dr. Molano.

"Friends are Different and the Same" and "Find What Makes Your Family Special" are two standout episodes for family viewing.

For solving problems as a family: Bluey

Bluey on Disney Plus does a wonderful job teaching its young audience how to solve problems together as a family. Bluey is a great show for kids ages 4 and up.

" Bluey really focuses on the importance of the relationship between a caregiver and child," explains Dr. Molano. "It models parental support during difficult times, but also shows children how to be independent and problem-solve on their own."

The show centers around a Blue Heeler puppy named Bluey and her mother, father, and younger sister. Dr. Molano notes that the dog parents often play pretend with Bluey and her sibling, providing a playbook for real-life families to interact imaginatively.

Try the episode "Camping," where Bluey and a French Labrador named Jean-Luc form a friendship despite a language divide. "Take Away," another solid pick, shows Bluey's parents managing a chaotic family as they wait to pick up takeout food. (Sound familiar?)

For the importance of role models: Doc McStuffins

Doc McStuffins on Disney Plus is a fantastic pick for teaching kids the importance of role models. This show is for kids ages 4 and up.

Another favorite of Dr. Molano's, Doc McStuffins , is all about problem-solving on the surface—the main character, Doc, uses critical thinking to "diagnose" and "heal" her toys. But more importantly, the show centers around setting positive examples for others, as Doc's mother (the family's primary breadwinner) is a physician herself. Meanwhile, Doc acts as a role model to her younger siblings.

Dr. Molano adds that there is another less-than-obvious lesson being played out: "Kids might be slightly less leery of visiting their doctor after viewing the experience in the show's non-threatening light." Although the show ended in 2020, you can still stream empowering episodes like "Bedazzled!" and "Pet Rescue: A Pet for Everyone."

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Exploring Problem Solving With Mr. Monkey, Monkey Mechanic

This week, I’d like to share a problem solving kids show that my family have been loving. First, let me explain why I think this is important.

From a very young age, our children’s learning is driven by the “unsolvable”. I’m sure we all remember times when they were young babies and it seemed nothing would stop their cries. A good friend of mine once described looking after a baby as “constant troubleshooting”. Frustration and a need to be understood, then, are what led our babies to become talkative toddlers. This is one of the things we just couldn’t do for them, like walking and eating.

As our kids grow up and are able to tell us what they need, it can be tempting to jump in and solve all their problems for them. After all, that’s what parents are for, right? It turns out that, sometimes, it would be better to let our children find their own solutions. For example, when my daughter asks me how her jacket zips up, I have to resist the urge to just do it for her. Instead, I let her figure it out. It’s a small thing, but, repeat the process enough times, and it becomes important. Studies show that problem solving kids are better prepared for success at school, in the playground and, eventually, in the workplace. Plus, it might even save us some time now!

Teaching problem solving doesn’t have to be complicated – one of the best methods is simply to show children how it’s done. For example, the  new Curious World show Mr. Monkey, Monkey Mechanic was designed specifically to enhance problem solving skills. The go-to mechanic for all the animals in town, Mr. Monkey is faced with the most off-the-wall problems. He must analyze every situation differently, picking up on clues and devising a step-by-step plan. Here are a few of my favorite episodes, and how they can help your children become expert problem solving kids:

1. Young Turtle's Topsy-Turvy Bicycle Trouble

In this episode, Young Turtle comes into Mr. Monkey’s garage with a bicycle that is just too tipsy and wobbly. He keeps falling off and it’s just so hard to get up! Mr. Monkey  does all his normal testing but it turns out the bike is in great shape. Maybe the problem  is not with the bike at all, but with the rider? When he figures out that Young Turtle is a beginner, Mr. Monkey adds a wheel and creates a perfect tricycle.

This is a great example of working to find a new solution when the first one didn’t work out – a lesson of perseverance which should be included in all problem solving activities for preschoolers!

2. Mr. Chameleon’s Car Needs New Paint!

Mr. Chameleon comes into Mr. Monkey’s shop wanting new paint for his car. He’s very stylish, and he needs the car to match his favorite red shirt. The next day, he’s wearing another color and asks Mr. Monkey to paint the car again. And the next day… well, you can guess what happens. Another day, another color, another coat of paint. It’s frankly quite annoying, but Mr. Monkey has more patience than me! He decides to paint Mr. Chameleon’s car with the colors of the rainbow, and gains another happy customer.

This episode shows kids there can be more than one solution to a problem, and that the easiest one might not always be the best.

3. Mr. Husky Misses Pulling His Sled in the Winter

Mr. Husky loves pulling his friends on his sled. The trouble is, it’s summer, and he can’t pull his sled without snow! In this episode, Mr. Monkey finds the solution straight away – he just needs to add wheels to the sled. The problem is that he’s used his last wheels for his skateboard. However, when he realizes that Mr. Husky is upset and that using the sled is something they could do together, he removes the wheels from his skateboard and installs them on the sled.

Probably the most valuable lesson of the three, this episode teaches children that problem solving exercises sometimes involve making a small sacrifice – but the reward is making others happy!

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Best Kids' TV Shows on Amazon Prime Video

Last updated: May 27, 2024

Spend more time watching Amazon Prime Video and less time searching for what to watch. Use this list to find the best TV Shows for your Kids. And check back often! We'll be updating it daily with new arrivals. See more best-of lists like this .

Going Home with Tyler Cameron

Bachelorette star tackles home renovations in his hometown.

Hope on the Street

Inspiring BTS star dance series has a little drinking.

Om Nom Stories

Nonverbal green blob hunts candy in silly shorts.

Surf Girls Hawai’i

Empowering docu spotlights Native culture, talent, sponsors.

Silly sidekick encourages kids to think creatively.

Surprises await in Attenborough's peek at nature in Britain.

Redefined: J.R. Smith

Sports docu strays too often from its fascinating subject.

Work It Out Wombats!

Fun-loving siblings use amazing problem-solving skills.

Beyond Belief: Fact or Fiction

Fun stories about the strange and creepy, some violence.

City Island

Bite-size civic lessons with warm, vintage-like animations.

Dr. Seuss Baking Challenge

Whimsical baking competition show is heavy on promotion.

Rosie's Rules

Bilingual show for little ones celebrates multiculturalism.

The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power

Fantasy prequel details Middle-earth history, has violence.

HobbyKids Adventures

YouTube family gets animated in zany invention tales.

Cyberchase: Buzz and the Tree

Arbor Day special highlights friendship and love of nature.

The Outlaws

Well-meaning comedy has violence, clichés.

The Housewives of the North Pole

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Blippi Wonders

Blippi is fun and knowledgeable in bright, animated series.

Alma's Way

Sweet show celebrates Puerto Rican culture, problem solving.

Do, Re & Mi

Educational musical show's got heart, friendship, and fun.

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The best kids TV shows

Here are the best TV shows for kids: From Ask the StoryBots to Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts, we have it all!

The best kids TV shows are never just for kids. As anyone raising a wee one knows, adults have to watch these things, too – or at least half-watch them while taking the opportunity to get some work done. That means that, at least in part, shows meant for children have to meet certain parental criteria, and not just rely on fart noises for entertainment. They need to relay important messages to kids, or inspire creativity — or at least have good jokes.

Each entry on this list of the best children’s shows currently streaming hits those marks. You’ll find cartoon classics and new-school gems, educational programs and totally bugged-out, wildly entertaining shows bound to make everyone in the room’s eyes pop. Check them out, then read our lists of the greatest animated movies and best Disney movies of all-time when you need something to keep the young’uns’ attention for a longer stretch.

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Best kids TV shows

1.  Ask the StoryBots

Straight talk: StoryBots is one of the best kid's shows around. The episodes follow  Beep, Boop, Bing, Bang and Bo  as they set out to answer a question such as: How do eyes work? Why do we recycle? How do you catch a cold? The silly storytelling is goofy and fun, but the answers are serious and scientifically sound—no wonder it won multiple Emmy awards. The cameos are especially delightful for grownups: John Legend, "Weird Al" Yankovic, Wanda Sykes, Snoop Dog. Watch on  Netflix . Ages 3-8.

2.  Search and Explore

Your little one will love the global adventures of ABC Mouse, 123 Mouse and Do-Re-Mi Mouse as they explore and learn about the world . Each 12-minute episode is geared for curious young minds, and short young attention spans. Produced by ABCmouse Early Learning Academy, you can stream the two, eight-episode seasons for free. Watch on Tubi . Ages 2-8.

3.  Beat Bugs

Beat Bugs follows the lives of bugs living in a Richard Scarry-like village. What do the bugs do in such a lively place with so much going on? Why, sing songs mainly written by the Beatles, of course. If it sounds silly, it is – and it's this light-handed setup that lets this thoughtful Emmy-winning series address the life issues that engross young minds. Watch on Netflix . Ages 5-7.

4.  PAW Patrol

Any parent of a young child knows the power of the PAW: This is pawsitively one cartoon canine-loving kiddies cannot miss. While highlighting the power of friendship and hard work, the beloved pups on PAW Patrol collaborate to protect Adventure Bay from all of the issues that arise. Who could possibly resist cute, crime-fighting pups like these? Watch on Sling . Ages 6 and under.

5.  Bluey

This charming Aussie production, starring a family of anthropomorphic blue heelers, isn’t trying to teach your kids any huge life lessons, except one: no matter how old you get, always make time for play. In each bite-sized episode, Bluey and her younger sister, Bingo, indulge the whims of their imaginations, whether it’s pretending to be old ladies or getting into a dance-off with invisible fairies, and often draw their parents into the fun. It’s unerringly sweet, but also clever enough to wink at the adults watching along — a perfect family show. Watch on Hulu . Ages 5-7.

6.  Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts

This fantastical anime series follows  Kipo Oak, a 13-year-old girl forced to run away from the safety of an underground city to navigate the dangers of a dystopian world. The episodes are clever, creative, seriously weird and completely wonderful. If your kid has a taste for out-there sci-fi, this is the show for them.  Watch on Netflix . Ages 7 and up.

7.  Peppa Pig

Peppa is some pig! Along with a hit TV show, this anthropomorphic pig also has an album out and even a live show. The success is understandable: little ones love the brief, five-minute episodes of this Nick Jr. series, which follows Peppa and her friends and family. Pair that with the charming colour animations, which look like they could be children’s doodles, as well as those adorable British accents, and who can resist? Watch on Sling . Ages 3 and up.

8.  Shaun the Sheep

From the minds that brought you Wallace and Gromit , this series follows an unusually intelligent sheep who lives with his pals at  Mossy Bottom Farm. Shaun always manages to find trouble, and get himself out of it in creative and hilarious ways—the claymation doesn't hurt.  Watch on Amazon Prime . Ages 4 and up.

9.  Sofia the First

If a show about an adorable young princess weren’t enough of a draw, peppering in appearances by the beloved Disney movie royals really sealed the deal for this series. 8-year-old Princess Sofia wins the hearts of youngsters everywhere with her sweetness and sense of adventure, and the well-known voices of Ariel Winter ( Modern Family ), Wayne Brady and Tim Gunn give the other characters palpable personality. Watch on Netflix . Ages 2-7.

10.  Hey Arnold!

With nods to Brooklyn and Seattle, this '90s gem follows a young football-headed urbanite, his kooky grandparents, boarding house neighbors and buddies from P.S. 118. The kids' shenanigans—whether it's uncovering urban legends, helping neighborhood outcasts or pining over girls in the sixth grade—never seem to lose their charm, and the Nickelodeon classic has certainly withstood the test of time. All young New Yorkers need to experience this show, so set aside time for a Hulu marathon. We promise you won't be sorry. Watch on Hulu .  Ages 7 and up.

11.  Star Wars: The Clone Wars

This animated series is must-watch territory for Star Wars fans—which includes just about every kid (and parent), ever. The shows follow the Star Wars saga in microscopic detail—prepare for lots of dinnertime trivia about the whens and wheres of who did what. Note that this epic series was launched in 2008 and ran for seven seasons, wrapping up in 2020 with more than 100 episodes to enjoy. Fans should also check out the new spin-off series Star Wars: The Bad Batch , which premiered in 2021. Watch both on Disney+ . Ages 8 and up.

12.  Shimmer & Shine

Being twins is totally cool, but imagine being a twin genie?! Now that's awesome! Shimmer and Shine are trying to make the most out of spells and wish-granting capabilities (with help from their non-genie BFF Leah) but naturally, these budding mythical ladies encounter a few problems along the way. Hey, they are learning the ropes, after all! Watch on Sling . Ages 3 and up.

13.  Sesame Street

Elmo, Big Bird, Cookie Monster and the rest of the muppet gang have been telling families how to get to Sesame Street for decades and they’re still going strong. The show not only teaches kids how to count and read, but also about friendship, compassion, sharing and how to handle their emotions in different scenarios. And as the show has grown, more diverse characters and family units have made their way onto the cast. Watch on PBS Kids . All ages.

14.  SpongeBob Squarepants

A fantastic Nickelodeon show if ever there was one, SpongeBob Squarepants plunges viewers into the depths of the ocean to the Bikini Bottom, the town that our beloved absorbent, yellow and porous protagonist calls home. You can find the sweet (yet naive) lead leaving his pineapple house to go jelly fishing in the park, assemble a delicious Krabby Patty, spend time with his partner in crime, Patrick Star, and, of course, annoy his curmudgeonly neighbor Squidward Tentacles. Watch out when he gets behind the wheel, though: As Mrs. Puff can attest to, SpongeBob is not the best boat driver. Watch on Paramount+ . Ages 6 and up.

15.  Phineas and Ferb

There are lots of adventures to be had in this Disney Channel series as Phineas conjures up new hijinks to pursue and brainiac Ferb devises gadgets to make their ideas come to life. Meanwhile, undercover Perry the platypus is busy trying to keep Dr. Doofenshmirtz from carrying out his evil plans. Watch on Disney+ . Ages 7 and up.

16.  Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

Cowabunga, dudes! Your favorite heroes in a half-shell have taken various forms throughout the years, becoming live-action movies, a CGI-animated series and, most recently, an anime-inspired cartoon with Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles . While it’s something of a soft-reboot, Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael and Donatello are still tasked with protecting NYC from the bad guys, but this show gives the franchise a renewed, fun energy. Stream on Paramount+ . Ages 8 and up.

17.  Blaze and the Monster Machines

Prepare for a STEAM lesson thanks to Blaze and the Monster Machines. In this kids' cartoon, viewers journey alongside AJ and his bright-red truck, Blaze, as they race cars and help other automobiles with their issues. Of course, fans will have to prepare themselves for the duo to go head-to-head with their rival, Crusher. Stream on Sling . Ages 4 and up.

18.  Dora the Explorer

This interactive show puts kids in charge right alongside Dora. While our beloved protagonist completes her missions and dodges run-ins with Swiper the fox, kiddies are asked to shout and sing along with her (and Boots) until the job is done. Stream on Sling . Ages 3 and up.

19.  The Adventures of Paddington

Ready the marmalade: Our favorite bear is starting off the new decade with an animated series on Nickelodeon. Voiced by Ben Whishaw, who also plays Paddington in the rather brilliant film series, fans can expect to go on adventures alongside a slightly younger Paddington, who begins and ends each episode by writing letters to his beloved Aunt Lucy. Watch on Nick Jr.   Ages 5 and up.

20.  Bubble Guppies

This adorable show features the Guppies, a group of preschool merpeople, who navigate an underwater universe. Each episode involves the guppies work through various issues with help from their school teacher, Mr. Grouper, singing songs about the day’s adventures along the way. Watch on Sling . Ages 3 and up.

21.  Where's Waldo?

Channeling inspiration from the popular seek-and-find '90s books, Where's Waldo  follows a young boy in a red and white-striped shirt who is always on adventure. With his pal Wenda by his side, Waldo is always game to take on any challenge the international wizard society sends his way. However, the magical, mystical and wicked Odlulu is out to wreak havoc, which certainly keeps these kids on their toes. Watch on Peacock . Ages 5 and up.

22.  Vampirina

Fitting in is never easy, especially when you're a vampire who's made her way from Transylvania to Pennsylvania with her supernatural family. Talk about a twist on the coming-of-age trope! Will little Vampirina (Vee for short) be able to fit in with the mortals in her new nabe? Stream on  Disney+  and  Disney Now . Ages 5 and up.  

23.  Wild Kratts

This 30-minute show gives little ones a taste of the world around them. Two brothers and vigilantes, Chris and Martin Kratt, work together to protect animals who are in danger of malicious villains or problems within their habitat. While fun and exciting, the program is also educational—kids get a 101 lesson in zoology and ecology by watching each episode. Stream on PBS Kids . Ages 5 and up.

24.  Mickey Mouse Clubhouse

Classic Disney characters like Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy get an upgrade in this bright, computer-animated series. In each episode, young viewers are presented with a challenge, requiring basic problem-solving and sometimes math skills to complete. The upbeat theme and ending songs (performed by They Might Be Giants!) will definitely get kids singing, too. Watch on Disney+ . Ages 2-5.

25.  My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic

Twilight Sparkle and her magical pony BFFs are schooled on what it takes to be the ultimate friend in a series that adds a bit of whimsy and color to your TV time. Stream on Netflix . Ages 5 and up.

26.  Doc McStuffins

Dottie's dream is to follow in her mother's footsteps and become a doctor. The little lady is already bracing herself for the medical field by caring for her stuffed animals. But, with the help of a magical stethoscope, her beloved toys come to life! Expect to pick up a few tips and tricks for healthy living along the way. Stream on Disney+ . Ages 4 and up.

27.  Rugrats

Look who’s talking now! Or rather, back in the ’90s. It’s Tommy, Chuckie, Angelica and the rest of the Pickles gang, whose baby-sized adventures thrilled elder millennials – and some Gen X-ers who were probably a bit outside the target demo. Watch on Paramount+ . Ages 6-11.

28.  Peg + Cat

In each 12-minute episode of the PBS Kids show Peg + Cat , the duo are faced with a math word problem that they must solve. Every whimsical story incorporates fun songs and encourages preschooler’s interest in basic math as the characters use charts and diagrams to find a solution. Stream on PBS Kids . Ages 3 and up.

29.  Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood

Introduce youngsters to Mister Rogers, the cardigan-clad grandfather figure we all know and love. The 30-minute episodes on PBS Kids feature puppets, characters and music, plus take kids on tours of factories, show them experiment demos, offer craft ideas and more—all with Mister Rogers speaking directly to them. Who wouldn’t want to be his neighbor? Stream on PBS Kids . Ages 4 and up.

30.  Arthur

Airing on PBS Kids and based on the book series by Marc Brown, Arthur follows an 8-year-old aardvark named Arthur Read, who learns life lessons while growing up. As Arthur faces challenges such as school bullies and piles of homework he learns to overcome his problems with the help of his family and friends. Stream on PBS Kids . Ages 5 and up. 

31.  Hotel Transylvania: The Series

If the kids loved Hotel Transylvania , the 2012 animated film about an ordinary boy who falls in love with Dracula’s daughter, they’ll enjoy this prequel series on the Disney Channel. Dracula’s fun-loving teen daughter, Mavis, takes the reigns at the hotel while her father is off on a business trip, but her plans are derailed when her strict aunt arrives for a visit. Stream the first season on Netflix . Ages 7 and up.

32.   Rapunzel's Tangled Adventure

The feisty Disney princess Rapunzel leaps her way onto the television screen with her very own animated series. The golden-haired heroine sets off with her friends in a quest to learn more about who she is and what she can face before truly becoming Princess of Corona. Rapunzel is such a great role model and shows little girls that they can tackle obstacles just as well as any other prince. Watch on Disney+ . Ages 5 and up.

33.  Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood

Taking a page from Mister Rogers' book, Daniel Tiger puts on his cute little red sweater and beckons kiddos to embark on his adventures  in the Neighbour hood of Make-Believe. Watch on PBS Kids . Ages 3 and up.

34.  Cyberchase

If you have kids already hooked on technology, they’ll probably enjoy this animated trip through cyberspace. When Matt, Jackie and Inez are zapped into another world from their library’s computer, they join Digit and Motherboard in the fight against Hacker and his evil sidekicks. Together, they solve math problems and overcome obstacles. Watch on PBS Kids . Ages 8 and up.

35.  Blue's Clues

Steve might have left the picture long ago and replaced with his brother Joe, but Blue the adorable pup is just as curious and playful as ever. Kids will have to chime in with their responses to help Joe figure out what Blue wants to do based on the clues. Blue is definitely a longtime Nick Jr. favorite with the young ones and engages them in fun ways. Watch on Sling .  Ages 3 and up.

36.  Thomas & Friends

Beloved by children for generations, you can’t go wrong with Thomas the Tank Engine and his engine friends from the island of Sodor. Originally filmed with model trains, the series has since been updated with more modern CGI animation, although it’s lost none of its whimsy charm or heartfelt storytelling. Watch classic episodes and newer seasons on Amazon Prime .  Ages 3 and up.

37.  Team Umizoomi

After a few episodes of Team Umizoomi on Nick Jr., little kids will start zooming through their own homework assignments. The series follows little Milli and Geo and their robot Bot as they solve all kinds of math problems and help the tots of Umi City with counting, shapes and other mathematical fun. Watch on Sling . Ages 3 and up.

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How to Teach Kids Problem-Solving Skills

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• Steps to Follow
• Allow Consequences

Whether your child can't find their math homework or has forgotten their lunch, good problem-solving skills are the key to helping them manage their life. 

A 2010 study published in Behaviour Research and Therapy found that kids who lack problem-solving skills may be at a higher risk of depression and suicidality.   Additionally, the researchers found that teaching a child problem-solving skills can improve mental health . 

You can begin teaching basic problem-solving skills during preschool and help your child sharpen their skills into high school and beyond.

Why Problem-Solving Skills Matter

Kids face a variety of problems every day, ranging from academic difficulties to problems on the sports field. Yet few of them have a formula for solving those problems.

Kids who lack problem-solving skills may avoid taking action when faced with a problem.

Rather than put their energy into solving the problem, they may invest their time in avoiding the issue.   That's why many kids fall behind in school or struggle to maintain friendships .

Other kids who lack problem-solving skills spring into action without recognizing their choices. A child may hit a peer who cuts in front of them in line because they are not sure what else to do.  

Or, they may walk out of class when they are being teased because they can't think of any other ways to make it stop. Those impulsive choices may create even bigger problems in the long run.

The 5 Steps of Problem-Solving

Kids who feel overwhelmed or hopeless often won't attempt to address a problem. But when you give them a clear formula for solving problems, they'll feel more confident in their ability to try. Here are the steps to problem-solving:  

• Identify the problem . Just stating the problem out loud can make a big difference for kids who are feeling stuck. Help your child state the problem, such as, "You don't have anyone to play with at recess," or "You aren't sure if you should take the advanced math class." 
• Develop at least five possible solutions . Brainstorm possible ways to solve the problem. Emphasize that all the solutions don't necessarily need to be good ideas (at least not at this point). Help your child develop solutions if they are struggling to come up with ideas. Even a silly answer or far-fetched idea is a possible solution. The key is to help them see that with a little creativity, they can find many different potential solutions.
• Identify the pros and cons of each solution . Help your child identify potential positive and negative consequences for each potential solution they identified. 
• Pick a solution. Once your child has evaluated the possible positive and negative outcomes, encourage them to pick a solution.
• Test it out . Tell them to try a solution and see what happens. If it doesn't work out, they can always try another solution from the list that they developed in step two. 

Practice Solving Problems

When problems arise, don’t rush to solve your child’s problems for them. Instead, help them walk through the problem-solving steps. Offer guidance when they need assistance, but encourage them to solve problems on their own. If they are unable to come up with a solution, step in and help them think of some. But don't automatically tell them what to do. 

When you encounter behavioral issues, use a problem-solving approach. Sit down together and say, "You've been having difficulty getting your homework done lately. Let's problem-solve this together." You might still need to offer a consequence for misbehavior, but make it clear that you're invested in looking for a solution so they can do better next time. 

Use a problem-solving approach to help your child become more independent.

If they forgot to pack their soccer cleats for practice, ask, "What can we do to make sure this doesn't happen again?" Let them try to develop some solutions on their own.

Kids often develop creative solutions. So they might say, "I'll write a note and stick it on my door so I'll remember to pack them before I leave," or "I'll pack my bag the night before and I'll keep a checklist to remind me what needs to go in my bag." 

Provide plenty of praise when your child practices their problem-solving skills.  

Allow for Natural Consequences

Natural consequences  may also teach problem-solving skills. So when it's appropriate, allow your child to face the natural consequences of their action. Just make sure it's safe to do so. 

For example, let your teenager spend all of their money during the first 10 minutes you're at an amusement park if that's what they want. Then, let them go for the rest of the day without any spending money.

This can lead to a discussion about problem-solving to help them make a better choice next time. Consider these natural consequences as a teachable moment to help work together on problem-solving.

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Pakarinen E, Kiuru N, Lerkkanen M-K, Poikkeus A-M, Ahonen T, Nurmi J-E. Instructional support predicts childrens task avoidance in kindergarten .  Early Child Res Q . 2011;26(3):376-386. doi:10.1016/j.ecresq.2010.11.003

Schell A, Albers L, von Kries R, Hillenbrand C, Hennemann T. Preventing behavioral disorders via supporting social and emotional competence at preschool age .  Dtsch Arztebl Int . 2015;112(39):647–654. doi:10.3238/arztebl.2015.0647

Cheng SC, She HC, Huang LY. The impact of problem-solving instruction on middle school students’ physical science learning: Interplays of knowledge, reasoning, and problem solving . EJMSTE . 2018;14(3):731-743.

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By Amy Morin, LCSW Amy Morin, LCSW, is the Editor-in-Chief of Verywell Mind. She's also a psychotherapist, an international bestselling author of books on mental strength and host of The Verywell Mind Podcast. She delivered one of the most popular TEDx talks of all time.

A Blog About Parenting: Coping Skills, Behavior Management and Special Needs

25 Fun Problem Solving Activities for Kids

Problem-solving activities for kids : Explore 24 fun problem-solving games and activities, and learn effective tips and strategies to teach kids problem-solving skills. If you want to explore problem-solving strategies more in-depth, you can also grab our workbook “ Problem-Solving for Kids ” (printable resource).

Problem-solving is the cognitive process of finding solutions to challenges or complex situations.

A systematic approach to problem-solving tends to include defining the problem, gathering information and data, generating potential solutions, evaluating the pros and cons of each solution, making a decision, and implementing the chosen solution.

Effective problem-solving often requires critical thinking, a good dose of creativity, and the ability to consider multiple perspectives. It may also involve identifying patterns, breaking down a problem into manageable chunks, and applying our logic to develop solutions.

Problem-solving is present in everyday situations and across all fields: business, science, personal life, and education. There is not one single aspect in our lives where we don’t need to apply our problem-solving skills.

Table of Contents

• Problem-solving steps
• Development of problem-solving in childhood
• Benefits of developing problem-solving skills
• 10 Tips to teach kids problem-solving skills
• 10 Examples of problem-solving strategies
• 25 Problem-solving activities and games for kids

Problem-Solving Steps

Some key components of problem-solving include:

• Identifying the problem Recognizing and defining the issue or challenge that needs to be addressed.
• Analyzing the problem Investigating and understanding the underlying causes, factors, and relationships related to the problem.
• Generating solutions Generating potential solutions or strategies to address the problem.
• Evaluating all possible solutions (Pros and Cons Analysis) Assessing the feasibility, effectiveness, and potential consequences of each solution. Considering the positive and negative aspects of each solution.
• Decision-making Selecting the best solution based on our analysis and judgment.
• Implementing the best solution Actioning our chosen solution
• Monitoring progress and results
• Reflecting on the outcomes Reviewing and evaluating the outcomes of the implemented solution, learning from the experience, and making adjustments if necessary.

Development of Problem-Solving Skills in Childhood

Children begin to develop problem-solving skills from a very early age, and these skills continue to develop and refine throughout childhood and adolescence.

Babies soon learn about action and reaction. And, as early as eight months, they begin to acquire an understanding of cause and effect (they shake a rattle, it makes a sound; they push a toy, it falls)

Between 13 and 24 months, they start solving simple problems through trial and error and engage in symbolic play using their imagination.

As children progress into middle childhood (ages 7-11), they develop more advanced problem-solving skills. They become capable of understanding multiple perspectives and can consider multiple factors when solving problems. They start using logic and reasoning to solve increasingly complex problems.

During adolescence (ages 12 and up), problem-solving skills continue to develop. Teenagers can generate and test hypotheses and use deductive and inductive reasoning to arrive at solutions.

Each child will develop their problem-solving skills at their own pace. Some children may show advanced problem-solving abilities at an earlier age. Others may require more time and experience to develop these skills fully.

Benefits of Developing Problem-Solving Skills in Children

Problem-solving skills in children are crucial for children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development. It equips them to approach challenges, think critically, make informed decisions, and find creative solutions. 

The benefits of good problem-solving skills in children include:

• Positive impact on self-esteem and confidence Identifying, analyzing, and solving their problems contributes to our kids’ sense of competence .
• Fosters Independence and Autonomy When our kids are able to problem-solve on their own, they take one more step toward independence
• Academic Success Problem-solving skills contribute to academic achievement, as they help students analyze and solve complex problems across various subjects.
• Cognitive Development Problem-solving fosters cognitive skills such as logical reasoning, analytical thinking, and abstract reasoning.
• Critical Thinking Problem-solving enhances critical thinking abilities, enabling children to evaluate information, identify biases, and make informed judgments.
• Creativity Problem-solving promotes creativity by encouraging children to think outside the box, generate innovative ideas, and explore multiple solutions.
• Emotional Resilience Problem-solving skills enhance emotional resilience by enabling children to manage and cope with challenges effectively, reducing stress and promoting well-being.
• Improved Social Interactions/Relationships Problem-solving abilities contribute to better social interactions, conflict resolution , and peer collaboration, promoting healthy relationships.
• Future career success Problem-solving skills are highly valued in the workplace and can positively influence future career success.

10+ Helpful Tips to Teach Kids Problem-Solving Skills

Teaching problem-solving skills to kids is an important part of their cognitive development. It helps them develop critical thinking, creativity, and resilience.

But how can we help our kids and students to develop this essential skill?

We can help our kids and students develop and improve their problem-solving skills in many ways.  These are some helpful tips that you could consider:

• Model problem-solving behavior When you see yourself in a problem-solving situation, verbalize your thought process: “I wonder how I should address this issue. I guess my alternatives could be… They all have positives and negatives….”
• Let them participate in the problem-solving situation “Could you help me solve this puzzle?”
• Provide real-life problem-solving situations Real-life scenarios make problem-solving more meaningful for kids. For example, discuss how to resolve a conflict with a sibling or how to make the morning routine smoother.
• Teach them how to break down problems Show them how to break down complex problems into manageable sub-problems.
• Practice brainstorming Create brainstorming situations where all the family (or the classroom) can contribute to solving a problem
• Teach the value of perseverance Sometimes, we must stick to a situation and persevere before finding a solution. Encourage kids to persevere through challenges and setbacks, emphasizing that mistakes and failures are opportunities for learning.
• Encourage critical thinking Encourage kids to analyze situations, consider different perspectives, and evaluate possible outcomes.
• How could we make your school lunch healthier but still yummy?
• How could we reuse/recycle all this paper?
• What could we do to help you remember all the steps in your night routine?
• Encourage reflection When they can find a solution for a problem, don’t jump to solve it for them. Encourage them to reflect on the problem and find and evaluate alternatives. And after a problem is solved, think about the whole process and the learnings. “How did this work?” “What did you learn” “Do you need to change anything?”
• Foster creativity Provide them with opportunities for imaginative play, creative projects, and brainstorming sessions.
• Teach the value of teamwork Teach kids the importance of working together to solve problems. Engage them in group activities or projects that require teamwork and collaboration. This helps kids learn the value of different perspectives and work together towards an objective while they practice their communication skills.
• Teach decision-making skills Teach kids how to approach problems systematically by going through the steps we have mentioned in our first section.
• Encourage both structured and free play. Structured play can help you create good problem-solving situations, while free play will foster creativity.

Developing problem-solving skills is an ongoing process that will also continue in adulthood. Provide your kids with guidance and support, and celebrate their efforts and achievements along the way.

10 Examples of Problem-Solving Strategies

There are different strategies that can help us solve a wide range of problems. Here are some commonly recognized problem-solving strategies:

1 . Trial and Error : This is the first problem strategy that we ever learn. We start using trial and error strategies in infancy, and it continues serving its purpose in many situations. This strategy involves trying different solutions or approaches and learning from the errors or failures until a successful solution is found.

2. Algorithm: An algorithm is a step-by-step procedure or a set of rules that guarantees a solution to a specific problem. It is a systematic approach to problem-solving that follows a predetermined set of instructions.

3. Heuristics: Heuristics are mental shortcuts or rules of thumb that help simplify problem-solving by providing quick and efficient strategies. While heuristics can be effective in many situations, they may also lead to biases and errors.

4. Divide and Conquer: This strategy involves breaking down a complex problem into smaller, more manageable chunks or steps that make the overall problem easier to tackle.

5. Working Backwards: This strategy involves starting from the desired outcome and working backward to determine the steps or actions needed to reach that outcome. We often use this problem-solving strategy when we set goals.

6. Analogical Reasoning: Analogical reasoning involves drawing parallels between the current problem and a similar problem that has been solved in the past. By applying the solution from the previous problem to the current one, individuals can find a solution more efficiently.

7. Brainstorming: Brainstorming gets lots of brains working on the same problem. It is a great collaborative problem-solving strategy that can bring different perspectives and experiences to the table and may result in lots of creative ideas and solutions. 

8. Decision Matrix: A decision matrix is a systematic approach to evaluating and comparing different options or solutions. It involves creating a matrix that lists alternatives and the criteria for evaluation. It assigns weights or scores to each criterion to come up with the optimal alternative.

9. Root Cause Analysis: Sometimes, we need to understand what is causing a problem before we can attempt to solve it, as different causes may require different approaches (for example, when you are sick, your doctor may need to understand what is causing the problem before prescribing a medicine)

10. Simulation and Modeling: Simulation involves creating a simplified representation or model of a problem situation to gain insights and test different scenarios.

Our choice of strategy will depend on the problem, available resources, and our own personal preferences and circumstances. We may also need to combine strategies or apply different ones to different aspects of a complex problem.

(Disclosure: We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. You can also read our Disclosure & Disclaimer policy  here )

Best Problem-Solving Activities for Kids

Play-based activities are centered around play and are designed to engage children in active learning and exploration. And fun problem-solving activities are a great way to develop children’s critical thinking, creativity, and decision-making skills.

In this section, we will review some problem-solving games and activities that will engage your kids’ critical-thinking skills and creativity.

1. Puzzle Games Puzzles are a fun activity for children of all ages. Young children will enjoy simple puzzles, while older children (and adults!) can have fun with more complex ones. Encourage them to use logical thinking and problem-solving strategies to complete the puzzles.

2. Crosswords A crossword is another fun type of puzzle and a good source of mental stimulation.

3. Sudoku Sudoku is a popular logic-based puzzle that involves filling a grid with numbers.

It can be extremely easy or very challenging, adaptable even for young learners.

Let’s go now for a couple of building challenges!

4. Build the Tallest Tower Give the child a set of materials (Legos, building blocks, wooden blocks, or other construction materials) and ask them to build the tallest tower they can. This simple game will encourage them to problem-solve as they build and figure out how to make the tower stable.

5. Build Towers with Different Materials Ask your child to build three different towers with different materials. Then assess how stable they are and how much weight they can hold. Analyze the pros and cons of using each type of material.

6. Treasure Hunt Set up a treasure hunt with clues leading to hidden objects or rewards. Children will have to follow the clues and solve puzzles to find the ultimate prize. This activity encourages problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork.

7. Scavenger Hunt Playing Scavenger Hunt can be a fun way for our kids to put their creative problem-solving skills to good use. Provide them with clues and puzzles that they must solve in order to find the next clue.

8. Mystery Bag Fill a bag with random objects and ask children to come up with creative uses for each item. Encourage them to think outside the box and find innovative solutions.

9. Memory Game While memory games primarily focus on memory retention and recall, they can indirectly contribute to problem-solving skills by developing cognitive abilities such as attention, information processing, and adjusting their strategies.

10. Role-Playing Scenarios Create role-playing scenarios where children have to solve a problem or make decisions. For example, pretend to be stranded on a desert island and ask them to decide what items they will take and how they will survive.

11. Role-Play Social Situations Work in developing social skills with social problem-solving situations.

12. Brainstorming Sessions Choose a topic or problem and hold brainstorming sessions where children can generate as many ideas as possible. Encourage them not to limit themselves (even if alternatives feel unfeasible!)

13. Team Building Activities and Games Engage children in team-building games like building a balloon tower. Each team member will need to collaborate, communicate, and problem-solve together to complete the project.

14. Escape Rooms An escape room is a super fun team problem-solving activity.

In an escape room, participants are locked inside a themed room and must work together to solve puzzles, find clues, and accomplish tasks within a given time limit in order to “escape” from the room.

15. Science Experiments Conduct simple science experiments that involve problem-solving. For example, in the classic “sink or float” experiment, children predict and test which objects will sink or float in water.

Problem-Solving Board Games

There are many board games that will test our kids problems solving activities. These are just a few examples:

16. Cluedo Players must solve a murder mystery by deducing the murderer, the weapon used, and the location of the crime. Players collect and examine clues to eliminate possibilities and make logical deductions.

17. Codenames Another classic game where players are split into two teams and must guess words based on clues from their teammates.

There are many codenames games available, including themes like Disney or Harry Potter.

18. Mastermind Game In this strategy game players take turns setting and solving secret codes

19. Scrabble Scrabble is a classic word game where players form words on a game board using letter tiles.

Kids must use their problem-solving skills to analyze the available letters, consider the best word combination and strategically place those words to score the highest points.

Learning Problem-Solving with Card Games

Card games provide opportunities for kids to develop problem-solving skills such as strategy, memory, pattern recognition, decision-making, and observation.

Just a couple of examples:

20. Uno Uno is a classic card game where kids match cards based on color or number. They need to assess their cards, strategize and make decisions about which cards to play to get rid of their cards while also considering the cards in their opponents’ hands.

21. Go Fish Go Fish is a classic card game where players try to collect sets of cards by asking other players if they have specific cards. Players need to remember which cards they have and make decisions about who to ask and what sets to pursue.

22. Coding Challenges Introduce children to coding activities using platforms like Scratch (or ScratchJr for younger kids), Code.org, or Tynker. Coding involves problem-solving and logical thinking, and children can create interactive stories, games, or animations.

23. Outdoor Problem Solving Take children outside and present them with challenges that require problem-solving, such as building a shelter using natural materials or finding their way through an obstacle course.

24. Problem-Solving Worksheets Help your child follow a systematic approach to problem-solving with these helpful worksheets

25. Goal-Setting Activities for Kids Learning to set goals and make plans to achieve them is also a problem-solving activity. I have several resources to teach kids about goal-setting that I will list below:

• Goal-Setting Activities for Kids
• SMART Goals for Kids
• Goal Tracker Thermometer

Remember to provide guidance and support during these activities while encouraging children to think independently and come up with their own solutions.

Problem-Solving Worksheets

Looking for kid-friendly examples of problem-solving strategies ?

This workbook explores the following  problem-solving strategies  (with child-friendly examples and activities):

• Trial and Error
• Heuristics (Clever shortcuts)
• Divide and Conquer
• Working Backwards
• Brainstorming
• Decision Matrix
• Root Cause Analysis
• Systematic problem-solving

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15 Best Problem Solving Activities: Foster Critical Thinking

1. Rolling Dice

2. build a tower, 3. tic tac toe, 4. scavenger hunt, 6. activity books, 7. board games, 9. human knot, 10. open-ended questions.

Problem solving activities for kids are a great way to teach them how to think critically and creatively, and how to develop a growth mindset . We’re sure you must have also played many educational games as a kid that helped you develop critical thinking or problem-solving- skills you’re using even today. These activities can be tailored to be fun and engaging, and they help kids understand that challenges and difficulties are opportunities to learn and grow instead of things to be feared. 

By providing kids with problem-solving activities, we can give them the tools to develop their problem-solving skills and build the confidence to tackle difficult challenges, which will be valuable to them throughout their life. It will also help them understand that their abilities can be developed with practice and hard work, encouraging them to persevere through difficult tasks and not give up easily when faced with obstacles. If you’re looking for some fun and engaging problem solving activities for children to develop a growth mindset, we have curated a list of activities for you.

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15 Best Problem Solving Activities for Kids

Things you’ll need: A die or dice, some flashcards and a pen

How to do: You can play tons of different games with dice. Playing with two dice encourages kids to quickly add up numbers and learn math in a fun way . One fun game you can play with a single die involves flashcards. For this game, you can assign a category to each number on the die and when the kid rolls the die, they have to name any 3 examples from the category assigned to the number rolled. For example, if number 4 is assigned to animals and it is rolled, they will have to name any 3 animals. 

Things you’ll need: Building blocks, lego, toilet rolls or anything that can be stacked

How to do: If you’re looking for problem solving activities for 5 year olds, this is for you. To play this game, just give the kids anything that can be stacked on top of the other. This can be building blocks, lego, Jenga blocks, toilet rolls, etc. The challenge is to stack one on top of the other and see how high a tower they can build. This game can be played in teams or individually as well. 

Things you’ll need: A tic tac tow board or pen and paper

How to do: This is one of the most exciting problem solving fun activities for students. You can either play this game on a tic tac toe board or on paper. If you’re playing it on paper, draw a table so that you have 9 boxes. Now each player must choose X or O and try to make a continuous row of their chosen symbol. Whoever succeeds wins. 

Things you’ll need: Small toys, stationery items, or anything you want to include in a scavenger hunt

How to do: Assign the teams or individual players specific items they have to find in a defined area. This can be an indoor or outdoor activity for kids . Give them a list of the things they need to find, and you can also give them hints on where to find these things. Whoever or whichever team finds all the things first wins. 

Things you’ll need: A puzzle game

How to do: Get a puzzle set. This can be a regular cardboard puzzle or a wooden puzzle and ask the players or teams to arrange it. You can make this a timed challenge or just let the kids solve the puzzle in their own time and have fun. 

Things you’ll need: Activity books and pencils

How to do: This is one of the best problem solving activities for kids. Activity books are great for children’s problem-solving skills to develop. Buy them activity books containing games like find the element, what’s wrong with the pictures, or hidden picture books. 

Things you’ll need: Board games like Ludo, Snakes and Ladders, Monopoly Junior, and Go Fish

How to do: Give them board games like Ludo, Snakes and Ladders, Monopoly Junior, Go Fish, etc. These board games help kids to develop logic, think deeper, plan ahead and solve problems. 

Things you’ll need: A chalk

How to do: Build a maze with chalk on the sidewalk. Make sure you add a few dead-end ways to make it more challenging for the kids. Once the kid is able to walk through and come out of the maze, take the game to the next level by adding even more dead-end ways and see how they overcome the challenge. 

Things you’ll need: Just a playground or garden

How to do: This is a great group activity for kids that’ll also teach them lots of skills. Ask the kids to form a circle and raise their right arm up. Now ask them to reach out to someone standing opposite to them in the circle and hold their left hand with their left hand. Now ask them to raise their left hands up and repeat the process with their right hands. The objective is to entangle them completely and then ask them to detangle themselves without letting go of anyone’s hands. 

Things you’ll need: Pen and paper 

How to do: Once you’re done with an activity, ask kids open-ended questions. These are questions that have no right or wrong answers. Some examples of such questions are- “Did you find this activity easy?”, “What did you enjoy the most about this activity?”, “How would you make this activity more fun?”, etc. 

11. Wool Web

Things you’ll need: Balls of yarn

How to do: This is one of the most exciting group problem solving classroom activities for kids . Divide the players into equal teams and ask them to form a circle. Hand them over one ball of yarn each and ask them to make a web of it amongst the teams. Set a time limit for this step, and once it is done, switch the webs so that none of the teams has their own webs. Now the teams will decide on one player from each team to be blindfolded. This blindfolded player will have to untangle to web assigned to their team with the help of verbal instructions from their teams. The team that untangles the web first wins. 

12. Fingertip Hula Hoop

Things you’ll need: Hula hoops

How to do: Divide the kids into teams of 6-8 for this game. Each team will stand in a circle and then be asked to raise their hands up. Now, place a hula hoop on top of their fingertips and ask them to bring it down slowly and make it touch the ground without it falling down or leaving the fingertips. The team to finish the task first wins. 

13. Obstacle Course

Things you’ll need: Pillows, blankets, mattresses, cones, balls, chairs, etc. 

How to do: Build an obstacle course indoors or outdoors with whatever you can find. This makes for one of the most engaging problem solving games for kids. Ask your kids to cross the obstacle course as fast as they can. To make it a bit more challenging, you can also ask them to race against each other to cross the obstacle course. 

14. Memory Games

Things you’ll need: Playing cards

How to do: For this fun cards game, place all the cards face down and take turns to turn 2-4 cards. If you are able to open two similar cards (in number), you get to keep the pair. The player with the highest number of cards with them in the end wins.  

15. Impromptu Plays

Things you’ll need: A stage

How to do: This is one of the best problem-solving exercises for kids to play in groups. If you have a large group, divide the kids into teams of 6-8. If the group is smaller, just make the kids stand individually. Now make a few chits on a theme that has questions that form a difficult situation or a challenge. For example, you can put in chits with questions like “You just found your friend cheating in an exam. What do you tell them?” or “Your younger sibling just broke your favorite toy. How do you react?”. Each team must enact a scene that includes the situation their chit has. If the group isn’t that big, each kid must speak about the same chit but have different perspectives. 

Why Are Problem Solving Skills Important for Kids?

Developing problem solving skills is extremely important for kids as it helps them to navigate easily around difficulties later on in life. As adults, we’re faced with challenging situations every day, and without our basic problem-solving skills, we wouldn’t be able to survive.

Problem solving skills also help kids to make effective decisions. It helps them resolve problems all at once without reducing them to smaller problems. Once kids develop problem solving skills, it is easier for them to develop other skills as well like critical thinking, cooperation and collaboration with others.

Having problem solving skills helps kids to become more creative and think differently than others and enables them to become independent. These skills also help kids develop decision-making skills and build their confidence along the way as they take the right decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the 5 problem solving skills.

The five problem solving skills are identifying the problem, producing possible results that might work, picking one solution from these, applying the chosen solution and evaluating the results.

What are some examples of problem-solving skills in kids?

Some of the problem solving skills in kids are research, creativity, team-building, communication, active listening, decision-making, and analysis. If you find some of these skills in a kid, chances are they’re great at problem solving.

What is problem solving learning?

According to cornell.edu, Problem solving learning is an approach wherein students are asked open-ended questions about a certain topic, and they must resolve and answer  the same in groups.

At what age do children begin problem-solving?

According to a study by Shaffer , kids can start developing basic problem solving skills from the age of three. This further continues to develop as they grow.

What are three problem-solving techniques

According to deakin.edu , the three most basic problem solving techniques are defining the problem, listing out all the possible solutions, and evaluating the options.

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Problem Solving for Kids: How-To Guide, Activities & Strategies

Children need to be able to solve their own problems. In daily life, kids face a lot of set of social circumstances and challenges. Whether they’re trying to figure out how to make friends, deal with bullies, or solve academic problems, they need strong problem-solving skills to be successful.

Problem-solving is a critical life skill that all kids need to learn. By teaching them how to identify and solve problems on their own, you’ll be setting them up for success in school and in life.

What are Social Problem-Solving Skills?

Social problem-solving skills are a skill set that involves behavioral and cognitive processes which allow an individual to find adaptive and positive ways of handling problematic situations that can arise in the social environment in our daily life. These skills comprise an understanding of emotions, empathy, self-awareness, prosocial behavior, anger management, perspective-taking, establishing positive relationships, and so on.

Why It’s Important for Children to Learn the Skills to Problem-Solve

Social problem-solving skills are important for kids to learn because they allow them to cope with the various challenges they face in their social environments, such as peer pressure, bullying, and exclusion from social groups. In addition, these skills can help them resolve conflicts effectively and build positive relationships with others.

How to teach Problem-Solving skills

There are many ways to develop social problem-solving skills in kids . One way is to provide them with opportunities to practice these skills through different activities and games.

There are a few key things that parents and educators can do to help kids develop strong problem-solving skills:

Teach Children to Identify the Problem

One of the most important steps in solving any problem is being able to accurately identify what the problem is. This can be tricky for kids, especially if they’re feeling emotional about the situation. Help them by teaching them how to take a step back and look at the problem objectively.

Help Kids Brainstorm Solutions

Once kids can identify the problem, it’s time to start brainstorming possible solutions. This is where creativity and out-of-the-box thinking come in handy. Encourage kids to think of as many possible solutions as they can, no matter how far-fetched they might seem.

Help Kids Weigh the Pros and Cons

After Children can come up with a few potential solutions, it’s time to help them figure out which one is the best option. This is where critical thinking comes in. Teach kids how to weigh the pros and cons of each solution and make a decision based on logic, not emotions.

Help Kids Implement the Solution

The final step is helping kids actually implement the solution they’ve chosen. This might involve role-playing different scenarios, practicing what they would say or do, or writing out a plan. Whatever the case, be sure to provide support and guidance every step of the way.

Praise Kids

It’s essential to praise your child when they demonstrate social problem-solving skills. This will help him feel confident in his abilities and encourage him to continue using these skills.

Also, proper guidance and opportunities to practice problem-solving skills should be provided for kids to be efficient enough to solve problems on their own. In addition to providing opportunities for practice, it is also important to model problem-solving skills for your child. 

By following these tips, you can help your child develop strong social problem-solving skills that will serve him well throughout his life.

Problem-solving in Child Development

Most children go through similar phases of problem-solving as they develop. However, the timing may vary depending on the child’s individual temperament and circumstances.

Here are some common milestones:

• Ages 2-3: During the age of 2-3 years, kids begin to understand that problems can be solved. They also start to develop a sense of self-control and can begin to use words to express their emotions.
• Ages 3-4: By 3-4 years old, kids are usually better at problem-solving and can use more logical thinking. They’re also beginning to understand other people’s feelings and perspectives.
• Ages 4-5: Around 4-5 years old, kids can usually think of multiple solutions to a problem. They’re also starting to understand the concept of cause and effect.
• Ages 5-6: By 5-6 years old, most kids can apply problem-solving skills in their everyday lives. They’re also able to understand complex emotions and empathize with others.
• Ages 6-7: Around 6-7 years old, kids are usually able to understand even more complex emotions. They’re also starting to see the world from other people’s perspectives and can use this knowledge to solve problems.
• Ages 7-8: By 7-8 years old, kids are often able to solve problems quickly and efficiently. They’re also able to think abstractly and see the world from multiple perspectives.
• Ages 8-9: Around 8-9 years old, kids are usually able to solve problems independently. They’re also beginning to understand the concept of time and how it can be used to solve problems.
• Ages 9-10: By 9-10 years old, kids are often able to solve complex problems. They’re also able to think abstractly and see the world from multiple perspectives.
• Ages 10-11: Around 10-11 years old, kids are usually able to solve problems independently. They’re also beginning to understand the concept of time and how it can be used to solve problems.
• Ages 11-12: By 11-12 years old, kids are often able to solve complex problems. They’re also able to think abstractly and see the world from multiple perspectives.
• Ages 12-13: Around 12-13 years old, kids are usually able to solve problems independently. They’re also beginning to understand the concept of time and how it can be used to solve problems.

As children get older, they should be able to solve more complex problems. If you’re concerned about your child’s problem-solving abilities, talk to their doctor or a child development specialist.

 Social Problem-Solving Strategies

There are several strategies that can help children of primary age to solve problems. Some of them are as follows:

• Encouraging children to take turns and share. This strategy helps children to be more patient and to understand that other people have feelings too. It also allows them to share their own feelings and thoughts more openly.
• Helping children to understand and express their emotions. This strategy helps children to identify and understand their own emotions , as well as the emotions of others. It also allows them to express their emotions in a more positive way.
• Teaching children how to compromise. This strategy helps children to understand that sometimes it is necessary to give up something in order to get something else. It also teaches them how to negotiate and how to reach an agreement with others.
• Encouraging children to think about other people’s perspectives. This strategy helps children to understand that other people have different points of view. It also allows them to see the world from another person’s perspective and to empathize with others.
• Helping children to understand and follow rules. This strategy helps children to understand that there are certain rules that must be followed in order to maintain order and peace. It also teaches them how to respect the rules of others.
• Teaching children how to improve their skills to problem-solve. This strategy helps children to understand that there are many ways to solve a problem. It also teaches them how to think creatively and to come up with their own solutions.

These are just a few of the social problem-solving strategies that can help children of primary age to solve problems. For more information, please talk to your child’s doctor or a child development specialist.

Social Problem-Solving Skills Activities

Games and activities for socialization are an excellent way for children for learning how to behave in social surroundings such as school or in the community.

It is essential for children to learn how to take turns, share, cooperate and resolve conflicts.

Here are some activities to improve social problem-solving skills for children of different age groups:

Social Problem-solving Activities for Preschoolers

Preschoolers are very young and need a lot of help to learn social problem-solving skills. The following activities are fun and will help them develop problem-solving skills.

• Circle Time: This is a great activity for kids to learn how to take turns and share. Give each child a turn to be in the center of the circle and share something about themselves such as their favorite color, food , animal, etc.
• Simon Says: This classic game is a great way for kids to listen and follow instructions. It also helps with problem-solving skills as they have to figure out what Simon is saying.
• Role-Playing: This is a great activity for kids to learn how to resolve conflicts. Have kids act out different scenarios such as sharing toys or taking turns. After each scene, discuss what happened and how the conflict could have been resolved.

Social Problem-solving Activities for Kindergarteners

Kindergarteners are still very young. So, they may need assistance when it comes to social problem-solving skills.

The following activities will give them a chance to practice these skills in a safe and fun environment.

• Cooperative Building: Have the kids work together in small groups to build towers or houses out of blocks or Legos. This activity will help them learn to share, take turns, and cooperate with others.
• Role-Playing: Act out different social situations with puppets or toys. For example, one child can be the customer in a store and the other children can take turns being the salesperson. This activity will help kids learn how to handle different social situations.
• Feelings Matching: Cut out pictures of people with different facial expressions from magazines or newspapers. Ask the kids to match the pictures with the corresponding feeling words (e.g., happy, sad, mad, etc.). This activity will help kids learn to identify and understand different emotions.

Social Problem-solving Activities for School-Aged Kids

As kids get older, they become more independent and are able to handle more complex social situations.

The following activities will help them practice their social problem-solving skills.

• Brainstorming: This activity can be done individually or in a group. Give your child a scenario and have them come up with as many solutions as possible. For example, “Your best friend just cancelled your play date. What are three things you could do?”
• Exercising empathy: It’s important for kids to be able to empathize with others and see things from their perspective. When they’re struggling to solve a problem, help them think about how the other person is feeling. For example, “Your friend might be feeling upset too. Maybe you can talk to her about why she cancelled the play date.
• Problem Solving Games: Games are a fun way to teach children the skills of solving problems. Try playing some classic board games like Chutes and Ladders or Candyland, which require players to make decisions and strategize. There are also many great online games, like Mission to Mars and Robot City, that help kids practice problem-solving.
• Discussing Problem-Solving Skills: As a family, discuss different problem-solving strategies. For example, “If you’re ever feeling overwhelmed or don’t know what to do, take a deep breath and think about what would be the best thing to do in that situation.”
• Model Good Problem-Solving Skills: As a parent, you are your child’s biggest role model. So, it’s important to model good problem-solving skills yourself. Whenever you’re faced with a problem, talk aloud about how you’re going to solve it. For example, “I’m having trouble finding my keys. I think I’ll check the couch first and then look in the car.”
• Encourage positive thinking: Help your child look on the bright side by encouraging them to think of the positive outcomes of a situation. For example, “Even though your play date was cancelled, you now have some free time to do something else you enjoy.
• Practice: It’s important to give kids opportunities to use their problem-solving skills in everyday life. When they’re faced with a social challenge, take a step back and let them try to figure it out on their own. Of course, be there to support them if they need help.

Social Problem-solving Activities for High-School Students 

High-school students often face a variety of social problems. They may have difficulty making friends, fitting in with classmates, or dealing with bullies.

Some students may also struggle with more serious issues, such as gangs, drugs, or violence.

There are a number of activities that can be used to help high-school students with improving their social problem-solving skills. These are as follows:

• Peer Mediation: This activity involves two or more students who are in conflict with each other. The mediator(s) helps the students to communicate with each other and find a resolution to the problem.
• Role-Playing: This is a great activity for helping high-school students to understand different perspectives. Students can take on the role of the person they are in conflict with, and then discuss how they would feel in that situation.
• Problem-Solving Groups: These groups usually consist of 4-6 students who meet to discuss a particular problem. The group leader(s) helps the students to brainstorm solutions and come up with a plan of action.
• Attending Debates: Debates can be a great way for high-school students to learn about different perspectives on social issues. Students can also practice their own argumentative and problem-solving skills by participating in debates.
• Service Learning: This is a type of community service that helps high-school students to understand and address social problems. Students typically work with organizations that focus on issues such as poverty, homelessness, or hunger.

Cultivating Resilience in Children

Developing resilience in children is a key aspect of nurturing their emotional health and equipping them to face life’s challenges head-on. It involves helping them understand that difficulties and setbacks are a normal part of life, and they can grow stronger from overcoming them.

By fostering a secure and loving environment, and by being role models of resilience ourselves, we can instill in children the ability to adapt to change and cope with stress.

One effective method to cultivate resilience in children is by encouraging them to express their feelings and thoughts openly.

Providing a safe space where they feel heard and understood helps them to understand their emotions better, which is a crucial step in resilience building. It’s important to validate their feelings, not minimize them, as it teaches them that it’s normal to experience different emotions, and it’s okay to discuss them.

Another significant way to build resilience is by teaching problem-solving skills. Guiding children through the process of identifying a problem, brainstorming possible solutions, choosing the best one, and reflecting on the outcome can equip them with valuable life skills.

As they practice, they will become more adept at facing challenges, whether big or small, and this boosts their confidence and self-efficacy. The beauty of resilience is that it isn’t an inherent trait; it’s a skill that can be learned and cultivated, one challenge at a time.

Teaching social problem-solving skills can help high-school students learn how to handle these types of situations. These skills can also help them in other areas of their lives, such as dealing with family conflict or managing their emotions.

Through these activities, high-school students can learn important problem-solving skills that will help them in their everyday lives.

There are many different activities that you can do to help your child develop problem-solving skills. Choose activities that are appropriate for your child’s age and interests.

And, most importantly, have fun!

Tips, D. (2022). Developing Problem-Solving Skills for Kids | Strategies & Tips | Kodable Blog. Retrieved 6 June 2022, from https://www.kodable.com/learn/problem-solving-skills-for-kids/

How to Teach Problem-Solving Skills to Children and Preteens. (2022). Retrieved 6 June 2022, from https://biglifejournal.com/blogs/blog/how-teach-problem-solving-strategies-kids-guide#:~:text=Allow%20your%20child%20to%20choose,the%20process%20of%20problem%2Dsolving .

Teaching Kids How to Solve Their Own Problems and Make Good Decisions. (2022). Retrieved 6 June 2022, from https://www.verywellfamily.com/teach-kids-problem-solving-skills-1095015

(2022). Retrieved 6 June 2022, from https://www.werockthespectrumkidsgym.com/social-skills-activities-that-teach-kids-problem-solving/

srivastava, m., & srivastava, m. (2022). 12 Problem-Solving Activities For Toddlers And Preschoolers. Retrieved 6 June 2022, from https://www.momjunction.com/articles/problem-solving-activities-for-toddlers_00795607/

20 Evidence-Based Social Skills Activities and Games for Kids. (2022). Retrieved 6 June 2022, from https://www.positiveaction.net/blog/social-skills-activities-and-games-for-kids

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How to Teach Problem-Solving Skills to Children and Preteens

• By Ashley Cullins

Whether it’s a toy-related conflict, a tough math equation, or negative peer pressure, kids of ALL ages face problems and challenges on a daily basis.

As parents or teachers, we can’t always be there to solve every problem for our children. In fact, this isn’t our job. Our job is to TEACH our children how to solve problems by themselves . This way, they can become confident , independent, and successful individuals.

Instead of giving up or getting frustrated when they encounter a challenge, kids with problem-solving skills manage their emotions, think creatively, and persist until they find a solution. Naturally, these abilities go hand-in-hand with a  growth mindset .

Before you continue, we thought you might like to download our FREE Your Words Matter Volume 2 Kit . With these 10 one-page parenting guides, you will know exactly how to speak to your child to help them stand up for themselves, be more confident, and develop a growth mindset.

So HOW do you teach problem-solving skills to kids?

Well, it depends on their age . As cognitive abilities and the size of the child’s challenges grow/evolve over time, so should your approach to teaching problem-solving skills.

Read on to learn key strategies for teaching problem-solving to kids, as well as some age-by-age ideas and activities.

3 General Strategies to Teach Problem-Solving at Any Age

1. model effective problem-solving .

When YOU encounter a challenge, do a “think-aloud” for the benefit of your child. MODEL how to apply the same problem-solving skills you’ve been working on together, giving the real-world examples that she can implement in her own life.

At the same time, show your child a willingness to make mistakes . Everyone encounters problems, and that’s okay. Sometimes the first solution you try won’t work, and that’s okay too!  

When you model problem-solving, explain that there are some things that are out of our control. As we're solving a problem at hand we should focus on the things we CAN actually control.

You and your child can listen to Episode 35  of the Big Life Kids Podcast to learn about focusing on what you can control.

2. Ask for Advice

Ask your kids for advice when you have a problem. This teaches them that it’s common to make mistakes and face challenges. It also gives them the opportunity to practice problem-solving skills.

Plus, when you indicate that their ideas are valued ,  they’ll gain the confidence to attempt solving problems on their own.

3. Don’t Provide “The Answer”

As difficult as it may be, allow your child to struggle, sometimes fail , and ultimately LEARN  from experiencing consequences.

Now, let’s take a look at some age-specific strategies and activities. The ages listed below are general guidelines, feel free to choose any strategies or activities that you feel will work for YOUR child.

Use Emotion Coaching

To step into a problem-solving mindset, young children need to first learn to  manage their emotions . After all, it’s difficult for a small child to logically consider solutions to a problem if he’s mid-tantrum.

One way to accomplish this is by using the  emotion coaching process  outlined by John Gottman.

First,  teach your kids that ALL emotions are acceptable. There are NO “bad” emotions. Even seemingly negative emotions like anger, sadness, and frustration can teach us valuable lessons. What matters is how we  respond  to these emotions.

Second,   follow this process:

• Step One: Naming and validating emotions.  When your child is upset, help her process the way she’s feeling. Say something like,  “I understand that you’re upset because Jessica is playing with the toy you wanted.”
• Step Two:   Processing  emotions.  Guide your child to her  calming space. If she doesn't have one, it's a good idea to create one.  Let her calm her body and process her emotions so she can problem-solve, learn, and grow. 
• Step Three: Problem Solving.  Brainstorm solutions with your child, doing more   LISTENING   than talking during the conversation. This allows your child to practice her problem-solving skills, and she’s more likely to actually implement the solutions she came up with herself.

Say, “Show Me the Hard Part”

When your child struggles or feels frustrated, try a technique suggested by mom and parenting blogger Lauren Tamm . Simply say, “Show me the hard part.”

This helps your child identify the ROOT   of the problem, making it less intimidating and easier to solve.

Repeat back what your child says,  “So you’re saying…”

Once you both understand the real problem, prompt your child to come up with solutions . “There must be some way you can fix that…” or  “There must be something you can do…”

Now that your child has identified “the hard part,” she’ll likely be able to come up with a solution. If not, help her brainstorm some ideas. You may try asking the question, “If you DID  know, what would you think?” and see what she comes up with.

Problem-Solve with Creative Play

Allow your child to choose activities and games based on her  interests . Free play provides plenty of opportunities to navigate and creatively solve problems.

Children often learn best through play. Playing with items like blocks, simple puzzles, and dress-up clothes can teach your child the process of problem-solving.

Even while playing, your child thinks critically:  Where does this puzzle piece fit? What does this do? I want to dress up as a queen. What should I wear?   Where did I put my tiara? Is it under the couch?

Problem-Solve with Storybooks

Read age-appropriate stories featuring characters who experience problems, such as:

• Ladybug Girl and Bumblebee Boy by Jacky Davis: The story of two friends who want to play together but can’t find a game to agree on. After taking turns making suggestions, they arrive at a game they both want to play: Ladybug Girl and Bumblebee Boy.
• The Curious George Series by Margaret and H.E. Rey: A curious little monkey gets into and out of dilemmas, teaching kids to find solutions to problems of their own.
• Ira Sleeps Over by Bernard Waber: Ira’s thrilled to have a sleepover at his friend Reggie’s house. But there’s one problem: Should he or should he not bring his teddy bear? It may seem small, but this is the type of early social problem your child might relate to.

Connect these experiences to similar events in your child’s own life, and ASK your child HOW the characters in these stories could solve their problems. Encourage a variety of solutions, and discuss the possible outcomes of each.

This is a form of dialogue reading , or actively ENGAGING   your child in the reading experience. Interacting with the text instead of passively listening can “turbocharge” the development of literacy skills such as comprehension in preschool-aged children.

By asking questions about the characters’ challenges, you can also give your child’s problem-solving abilities a boost.

You can even have your child role-play the problem and potential solutions to reinforce the lesson.  

For book suggestions, refer to our Top 85 Growth Mindset Books for Children & Adults list.

Teach the Problem-Solving Steps

Come up with a simple problem-solving process for your child, one that you can consistently implement. For example, you might try the following five steps:

• Step 1: What am I feeling?  Help your child understand what she’s feeling in the moment (frustration, anger, curiosity, disappointment, excitement, etc.)  Noticing and naming emotions will diffuse  their charge and give your child a chance to take a step back.
• Step 2: What’s the problem?  Guide your child to identify the specific problem. In most cases, help her take responsibility for what happened rather than pointing fingers. For instance, instead of, “Joey got me in trouble at recess,” your child might say, “I got in trouble at recess for arguing with Joey.”
• Step 3:   What are the solutions?  Encourage your child to come up with as many solutions as possible. At this point, they don’t even need to be “good” solutions. They’re just brainstorming here, not yet evaluating the ideas they’ve generated.
• Step 4: What would happen if…? What would happen if your child attempted each of these solutions? Is the solution safe and fair? How will it make others feel? You can also try role-playing at this step. It’s important for your child to consider BOTH  positive and negative consequences of her actions.
• Step 5: Which one will I try?  Ask your child to pick one or more solutions to try. If the solution didn't work, discuss WHY and move on to another one. Encourage your child to keep trying until the problem is solved. 

Consistently practice these steps so that they become second nature, and model solving problems of your own the same way.  It's a good idea to   reflect :   What worked? What didn’t? What can you do differently next time?

Problem-Solve with Craft Materials

Crafting is another form of play that can teach kids to solve problems creatively.

Provide your child with markers, modeling clay, cardboard boxes, tape, paper, etc. They’ll come up with all sorts of interesting creations and inventive games with these simple materials.

These “open-ended toys” don’t have a “right way to play,” allowing your child to get creative and generate ideas independently .

Ask Open-Ended Questions

Asking open-ended questions improves a child’s ability to think critically and creatively, ultimately making them better problem-solvers. Examples of open-ended questions include:

• How could we work together to solve this?
• How did you work it out? or How do you know that?
• Tell me about what you built, made, or created.
• What do you think will happen next?
• What do you think would happen if…?
• What did you learn?
• What was easy? What was hard?
• What would you do differently next time?

Open-ended questions have no right answer and can’t be answered with a simple “Yes” or “No.”

You can ask open-ended questions even when your child isn’t currently solving a problem to help her practice her thinking skills, which will come in handy when she does have a problem to solve.

If you need some tips on how to encourage a growth mindset in your child, don't forget to download our FREE Your Words Matter Volume 2 Kit .

Break Down Problems into Chunks

This strategy is a more advanced version of “Show me the hard part.”

The bigger your child gets, the bigger her problems get too. When your child is facing a challenge that seems overwhelming or insurmountable, encourage her to break it into smaller, more manageable chunks.

For instance, let’s say your child has a poor grade in history class. Why is the grade so low? What are the causes of this problem?

As usual, LISTEN as your child brainstorms, asking open-ended questions to help if she gets stuck.

If the low grade is the result of missing assignments, perhaps your child can make a list of these assignments and tackle them one at a time. Or if tests are the issue, what’s causing your child to struggle on exams?

Perhaps she’s distracted by friends in the class, has trouble asking for help, and doesn’t spend enough time studying at home. Once you’ve identified these “chunks,” help your child tackle them one at a time until the problem is solved.

Show “ The Broken Escalator Video ”

Discuss the importance of embracing challenges and solving problems independently with the “broken escalator video.”

In the video, an escalator unexpectedly breaks. The people on the escalator are “stuck” and yelling for help. At this age, it’s likely that your child will find the video funny and immediately offer a solution: “Just walk! Get off the escalator!”

Tell your child that this is a simple example of how people sometimes act in difficult situations. Ask, “Why do you think they didn’t get off the escalator?” (they didn’t know how, they were waiting for help, etc.)

Sometimes, your child might feel “stuck” when facing problems. They may stop and ask for help before even attempting to find a solution. Encourage your child to embrace challenges and work through problems instead.

Problem-Solve with Prompts

Provide your child or a group of children with materials such as straws, cotton balls, yarn, clothespins, tape, paper clips, sticky notes, Popsicle sticks, etc.

With just these materials, challenge your kids to solve unusual problems like:

• Make a leprechaun trap
• Create a jump ramp for cars
• Design your own game with rules
• Make a device for two people to communicate with one another

This is a fun way to practice critical thinking and creative problem-solving. Most likely, it will take multiple attempts to find a solution that works, which can apply to just about any aspect of life.

Make Them Work for It

When your child asks for a new toy, technology, or clothes, have her make a plan to obtain the desired item herself. Not only will your child have to brainstorm and evaluate solutions, but she’ll also gain confidence .

Ask your child HOW she can earn the money for the item that she wants, and encourage her as she works toward her goal .

Put It on Paper

Have your child write out their problems on paper and brainstorm some potential solutions.

But now, she takes this process a step further: After attempting each solution, which succeeded? Which were unsuccessful? Why ?

This helps your child reflect on various outcomes, learning what works and what doesn’t. The lessons she learns here will be useful when she encounters similar problems in the future.

Play Chess Together

Learning to play chess is a great way for kids to learn problem-solving AND build their brains at the same time. It requires players to use critical thinking, creativity, analysis of the board, recognize patterns, and more. There are online versions of the game, books on how to play, videos, and other resources. Don’t know how to play? Learn with your teen to connect and problem solve together!

Have Them Learn To Code

Our teens and tweens are already tech-savvy and can use their skills to solve problems by learning to code. Coding promotes creativity, logic, planning, and persistence . There are many great tools and online or in-person programs that can boost your child’s coding skills.

Encourage to Start a Meaningful Project

This project has to be meaningful to your teen, for example starting a YouTube channel. Your teen will practice problem-solving skills as they’re figuring out how to grow their audience, how to have their videos discovered, and much more. 

In the Big Life Journal - Teen Edition , there’s a section that guides them through planning their YouTube channel and beginning the problem-solving process.

Apply the SODAS Method

Looking for a game plan that your teen can employ when faced with a problem? The SODAS method can be used for big or small problems. Just remember this simple acronym and follow these ideas:

• D isadvantages
• A dvantages

Encourage to Join Problem-Solving Groups

Does your teen enjoy solving problems in a team? Have them join a group or club that helps them hone their skills in a variety of settings--from science and robotics to debating and international affairs. Some examples of groups include: 

• Odyssey of the Mind
• Debate team
• Science Olympiad

Looking for additional resources?  The Bestseller’s Bundle includes our three most popular printable kits packed with science-based activities, guides, and crafts for children. Our Growth Mindset Kit, Resilience Kit, and Challenges Kit work together as a comprehensive system designed specifically for children ages 5-11.

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25 thoughts on “ How to Teach Problem-Solving Skills to Children and Preteens ”

I love, love, love the point about emotional coaching. It’s so important to identify how children are feeling about a problem and then approach the solutions accordingly.

Thank you for putting this together. I wrote an article on problem-solving specifically from the point of view of developing a STEM aptitude in kids, if you like to check it out – https://kidpillar.com/how-to-teach-problem-solving-to-your-kids-5-8-years/

I feel that these techniques will work for my kid.. Worthy.. Thank you

I love you guys

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21 Good Picture Books to Teach Problem and Solution

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Read mentor text picture books to teach problem and solution text structure. Understanding the problem and solution story structures improves comprehension and helps readers make informed predictions. (As well as helping children see the creative possibilities in problem-solving!)

Of course, almost all stories have a problem and a solution –with the exception of a concept book. So really, you can search out problem and solution examples in any book, whether it’s fiction or nonfiction.

When children learn what to expect in a problem and solution story, not only will they be able to predict solutions, but they will also be better able to write their own problem-solution stories. I started teaching this early to my young kids, well before they were school-age because we want our children to become problem solvers. That is an important life skill!

While many picture books model the narrative story structure of problem and solution, these are my favorites to use with kids both at home and in the classroom.

PRINTABLE LIST

Mentor Text Picture Books to Teach Problem and Solution

Problem Solved! by Jan Thomas When Rabbit sees his messy room, he learns that he has HIS OWN PROBLEM SOLVING PORCUPINE! Which seems good at first. But, it turns into a disaster. Because to clean up the blocks, the porcupine flushes them down the toilet. And to clean up his shirts, he feeds them to the goldfish. How can Rabbit get rid of his not-very-helpful problem-solving porcupine?

A House in the Woods  by Inga Moore Little Pig’s den becomes filled with friends, but once Moose arrives, the den collapses. Oh, no! Problem. What will they do to find a solution? Together, the animals build a new house in the woods big enough to fit all the friends.

Enigma  by Graeme Base Bertie needs to find the missing magic show props that have disappeared from his grandpa’s retirement home. Each performer tells him what’s missing. Readers help find the items in the illustrations so that Bertie can find the culprit. Like all his books, Base excels in his detailed illustrations.

7 Ate 9: The Untold Story  by Tara Lazar, illustrated by Ross MacDonald 6 bangs on Private I’s door for help! Because there’s a rumor that 7 is eating other numbers because apparently, 7 ate 9. YIKES! But did 7 really eat 9? Pitch perfect tongue-in-cheek number and word humor will crack you up throughout this suspenseful, funny problem and solution story. (Also on:  Best Picture Book Mysteries .)

The Brownstone  by Paula Scher, illustrated by Stan Mack The Bear family is ready for hibernation but first, they need to figure out what to do about the noise problem. Their solution? All the animals work together to shift apartments so that everyone finds the best apartment for their specific needs. You’ll love the message and illustrations.

Pigeon P.I.  by Meg McLaren What a unique and delightful mystery story! A little canary asks Pigeon P.I. (private investigator) to help her find her missing friends. Then the canary goes missing, too. It’s up to Pigeon to solve the missing bird mystery. The author writes in the style of the old detective shows– punchy with short sentences. The illustrator captures the details, giving kids clues to notice as they read.

One Word from Sophia  by Jim Averbeck, illustrated by Yasmeen Ismail This picture book is a great way to teach kids summarizing and word choice as well as a problem-solution text structure! Sophia really wants a pet giraffe for her birthday. As a result, she sets out to convince her family, starting with her mother, a judge. However, Mother says that Sophia’s argument is too verbose. As a result, Sophie tries fewer words with Father. But he says her presentation is too effusive. Sophia continues with each family member until she reaches her last-ditch attempt and says the one word that works: PLEASE.

No Boring Stories!  by Julie Falatko, illustrated by Charles Santoso When a cute little bunny tries to join a group of animal storytellers (mole, weevil, crab, and babirusa), the group doesn’t want to add her to their brainstorming group. As the animals continue their story plans with relatable characters, an inciting incident, rising action, climax, and…. Only the group gets stuck with the ending. That’s when bunny reveals that she likes making up weird (not boring) stories. The group realizes that the bunny has the perfect ending idea. Reluctantly, they agree that she can be part of the group. At least until a “ bunch of adorable frogs and puppies show up next week… ” This book shows plotting as well as the creative strengths of writers working together.

That Fruit Is Mine!  by Anuska Allepuz This is a charming problem and solution story about learning to share and the power of working together. You’ll crack up watching the elephants’ many failed attempts to get delicious-looking fruit off a tree while simultaneously watching a tiny group of mice work together to get the yummy fruit, too. The problem is getting the fruit but only one animal group succeeds in a solution. Who do you think it will be? Great for prediction! (Also on:  Picture Books That Teach Cooperation .)

Great, Now We’ve Got Barbarians!   by Jason Carter Eaton, illustrated by Mark Fearing Mom says that if the boy doesn’t clean his room, he’ll get pests . . . which the boy thinks aren’t all that bad, right? However, things go downhill when barbarian “pests” start arriving. Because they eat everything, use his toys to clean out their ears, and steal blankets and pillows. So there is only one thing to do — CLEAN up his room. It’s a predictable but funny solution with the perfect forgot-to-clean-up twist at the end.

Walrus in the Bathtub  by Deborah Underwood, illustrated by Matt Hunt The worst thing about this family’s new home is the walrus in the bathtub. And walrus songs are very, very loud. It’s a big problem. The family tries lots of clever things to get the walrus to leave the bathtub but with no success. So they decide to move. Again. That’s when the walrus shows them his list — “ How to Make Your New Family Feel Welcome ” — which, surprisingly, includes all the things that annoy the family. It turns out the walrus was just trying to be nice. As a result, the family stays with a few *new* rules. This story will make you want your own walrus in a bathtub.

The Thingity-Jig by Kathleen Doherty, illustrated by Kristyna Litten Wordplay, problem-solving, and persistence! One day Bear finds a Thingity-Jig (aka. a couch), which he thinks is wonderful as a sit-on-it, jump-on-it thing.  He asks his friends to help him carry it home but they’re too fast asleep, so Bear figures out some ideas to do it himself. He makes a Rolly-Rumpity! Which is a pack-it-up, heap-it-up, load-it-up thing. That isn’t enough to move the Thingit-Jig so Bear makes something else — a Lifty-Uppity. And then, a Pushy-Poppity. And at daybreak, he arrives back at home where his friends are waking up, with his special Thingity-Jig. Bingity…Bing…Boing…Bear falls asleep.

Someday is Now: Clara Luper and the 1958 Oklahoma City Sit-Ins  by Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich Clara advocated for justice and equality during a time when Black people weren’t permitted the same rights as white people. As a teacher, she inspired her students to believe that change was possible. Clara and her students went to the Katz drugstore and asked to be served — even though the store didn’t serve black people. She and her students returned day after day despite people yelling and throwing food. Eventually, the Katz store relented and started to serve people of all races. Clara and her students finally could enjoy a Coke and a burger without trouble.

Wangari’s Trees of Peace  by Jeannette Winter Based on the true story of Wangari Maathai, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, read how Wangari helped her country of Kenya whose forests were all but destroyed. She started planting trees which started a movement motivating other people to plant trees as well. This is an example of how narrative nonfiction book can also teach the plot structure of problem and solution .

Battle Bunny   by Jon Scieszka and Mac Barnett, illustrated by Matt Myers When Alex gets a silly, sappy picture book called Birthday Bunny, he picks up a pencil and turns it into something he’d like to read: Battle Bunny. An adorable rabbit’s journey through the forest becomes a secret mission to unleash an evil plan–a plan that only Alex can stop. Not only does this mentor text model problem and solution, but also voice and revision.

When Pigs Fly  by James Burke One day, an exuberant pig declares that he will fly. His sister observes with disbelief and horror as one attempt after another fails. The brother pig is so disappointed that he decides to give up. That’s when his sister comes up with an idea — something he hasn’t tried before that will help her brother fly — a pretend airplane. The pigs’ expressive illustrations are absolutely perfect as is the message of persistence despite failure.

Piper and Purpa Forever!  by Susan Lendroth, illustrated by Olivia Feng Most stories have a  problem and a solution  but this story is a great example showing a little girl’s ability to creatively  problem solve  with a beautiful solution to her problem. Piper loves her beloved purple sweater, Purpa, and is so sad when she grows out of it. Will she be able to keep her sweater somehow?

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Melissa Taylor, MA, is the creator of Imagination Soup. She's a mother, former teacher & literacy trainer, and freelance education writer. She writes Imagination Soup and freelances for publications online and in print, including Penguin Random House's Brightly website, USA Today Health, Adobe Education, Colorado Parent, and Parenting. She is passionate about matching kids with books that they'll love.

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My grandson loves cars, RC cars, sports cars but I don’t find any books about cars, racing, car features, etc. It would be a ‘hook’ to get him to read more. Any suggestions appreciated.

Here is a list of vehicle books. https://imaginationsoup.net/picture-books-vehicle-loving-kids/ . My recommendation for car books is Professor Wooford McPaw’s History of Cars by Elliot Kruszynski.

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Promoting Problem-solving Skills in Young Children

Roselia Ramirez : I'd like to welcome you to the Home Visiting webinar series. We are happy that you have joined us today. The topic for our session is focused on problem-solving and how home visitors can partner with parents to really support its development. Before we get started, we want to tell you a little bit about us and want to have you meet your hosts for today's session.

My name is Roselia Ramirez and I am a senior training and technical assistance specialist at the National Center on Early Childhood Development Teaching and Learning, or DTL for short. I'm happy to be joining you from my home state of Arizona, and I'm going to turn it over to my colleagues and have them introduce themselves. Hey Joyce.

Joyce Escorcia: I am Joyce Escorcia, and thanks everyone for choosing to spend your hour with us. I work alongside Roselia and Sarah at DTL as a senior T and T specialist. You may have seen me in the Coaching Corner webinars and some other places and spaces. Thanks for joining us. We're excited to dig into our topic today. Sarah, do you want to introduce yourself, and share a little bit about yourself?

Sarah Basler: I'm excited to join you all today; you might recognize me as one of the presenters of the Coaching Corner webinar series and my role and work tends to be around coaching and specifically using PBC to support practitioners and even supporting coaches in their PBC practice. I also have a background in pyramid model practices. I'm excited to be here today and talk with you all about problem-solving, which is one of my passions. Thanks so much for having me today.

Roselia: Thanks for joining us, Sarah. It's exciting to see you and to have you as our guest for today on this often-challenging topic for many home visitors as well as parents. Thank you again, and it's so nice to see you. We do probably have some new viewers joining us today. We were wondering if you could start by giving an overview of the Practice-Based Coaching model and then share with our viewers some of the benefits of coaching for a home visitor.

Sarah: Sure. A quick little recap for some of you, and an introduction for others, Practice-Based Coaching or PBC as we call it for short, is a coaching model that when used with fidelity can lead to positive outcomes for children and their families. PBC can be used with anyone, so you can, a coach can support teachers or support home visitors, family childcare providers, or even other coaches. We refer to those that are receiving the coaching as a coachee, to support them to use a set of effective practices. PBC is a content-ready model, which means that any set of practices can be the focus for the middle of the cycle, visual, and so whatever set of practices that you might want to be the focus of coaching can go in the middle there.

The coach and the coachee together identify some strengths and needs related to those effective practices that have been selected for coaching and together they write a goal and an action plan to support that coachee in their implementation of those goals. The coach and the coachee engage in focused observation. The coach will come in and observe the coachee using those effective practices selected in their action plan. Then they meet and reflect about what happened during the focused observation, and the coach will give some feedback, some supportive, and some constructive feedback.

All of these components of PBC fit within a collaborative partnership. PBC occurs in that context, and it's really about a coach and a coachee coming together to work together and support the implementation of those effective practices. When we think about what those benefits might be for a home visitor, a home visitor could share with their coach, challenges that they might be facing related to working with families and together, a coach and the home visitor could talk through maybe some possible solutions or strategies that the home visitor may want to try with the family or support the home visitor in learning a little bit more about a certain set of effective practices.

Sometimes it's really nice to have that support and a colleague to ask your questions and get some ideas. A coach can support a home visitor to grow their home visiting practices. A coach could support them not only around maybe effective practices to try with the, to support the family to use, but could support the home visitor in growing their home visiting practices themselves. Thinking about how to enhance those skills.

Roselia: Thanks, Sarah, I really like the whole notion. The first thing that kind of comes to my mind is this whole idea of having a thought partner. But before we go any further into this topic, and this discussion, if you're just joining the session, we would like to remind you to visit that teal color widget that's at the bottom of your screen. Here's where you can gain access to this participant's guide that you're seeing a little screenshot on your screen now. This resource is intended to be interactive and you're going to hear us reference it and then direct you there during the session for some opportunities for engagement as well as some reflection.

I also want to point out that on the first page of the participant's guide, you're going to find some icons and images that we have been using in our home webinar series, such as the focus on equity segment and this is represented by that little magnifying glass image. I also wanted to mention that not every one of our Home Visiting webinars will have each of the segments in each of the webinars, but just to give you an idea of what those are when you do see them. The other thing we want to do before we go any further is we want to review the learning objectives that we have established for this session.

We have identified and framed the session around two learning goals. First, by the end of the session, we anticipate that you'll be able to describe some essential components of problem-solving, and then second, that you will have some practical strategies and resources that are intended to not only strengthen but nurture problem-solving within that home environment. Now in your participant's guide, we have provided a space for you to reflect and to think about your own learning goals and what you would like to walk away with from this session. Think about that for a moment. What's something that maybe a question that you might have or a type of reflection, something that you would like to walk away with. Take a moment and then jot down your thoughts in your participant's guide.

Joyce: To frame the space that we're in today for our Home Visiting webinar series this year, we've been focusing in on topics that have an impact on social and emotional development. As many of you know, social-emotional development is one of the domains in the Head Start Early Learning and Outcomes Framework, or the ELOF . You can see we have it highlighted here on the slide. When we began the series this year in October, we focused in on the home environment, and then in December, we focused in on relationships. In our last webinar, we really focused in on emotional literacy.

If you missed these webinars, don't worry, you can catch it on Push Play, and you'll have information about that towards the end of our webinar today. For our time today, we're really excited; again, I'm super excited to have my cohost from the Coaching Corner webinar series. I'm excited to be here with Sarah to focus on problem-solving and the practical strategies that we're going to be talking about today. We're really going to be looking at how a home visitor can support and partner with families kind of introduce and nurture that skill within young children. That's really where we're going to be at today.

Again, we wanted to make that connection with the Pyramid Model. While we're not going to go deep into the pyramid, we do want to just make that connection today that the Pyramid Model is a framework of evidence-based practices for promoting young children's social-emotional development. The Pyramid Model builds upon a tiered public health approach by providing universal support to, universal supports for [inaudible]. Animations are going a little wonky on me today. Universal support to all children to promote wellness and then targeted services to those who need more support and then also intensive services for those that need them.

In this webinar, we're going to be focusing in on problem-solving, which is that tier two targeted kind of social-emotional support piece, which we know are essential and important to healthy social development. That's where we're going to be focusing in on today, with, we're thinking about the pyramid. If you want to know more about the pyramid, check out the National Center for Pyramid Model Innovations, or NCPMI . We have links to that within the resource, within your viewer's guide for today. Be sure and check that out as well. We are again super fortunate to have Sarah with us today. We just really want to draw on all of her experience that she's had out in the field and really sharing some of her insight on problem-solving. Sarah, I'm going to pass it over to you.

Sarah: Social competencies like self-regulation, empathy, perspective taking, and problem-solving skills are really foundational to that healthy social-emotional development, and this includes positive interactions like friendship and relationship skills between peers and siblings. Young children really need that support of adults in their lives to help them learn these skills so that they can develop healthy relationships among peers and find ways to really work through social conflicts. As home visitors, you can support this process by really supporting teaching and modeling with families how to help their children develop these skills earlier on.

It can start as young as infants and toddlers. Home visitors can support building these foundational problem-solving and relationship skills that most children can access with adult support and start to use independently as they start to, as they continue to develop these skills. Children, as they become more independent, they'll tend to run into situations in their environment that can lead to frustration or even some challenging behavior.

If parents are intentional and teach children these skills early on in their development, they can become pretty fluent in problem-solving. Then as they learn these skills, they can become more independent and successful with these skills. Their self-esteem will then, in turn, increase, and they will be likely to be able to cope with certain levels of frustration as a result and engage hopefully in less challenging behavior. When they feel confident in these social interactions and are able to problem solve successfully, then we're going to likely see less challenging behavior.

Roselia: Sarah, this is a good place to note that as you get to know your families, you may also discover that there might be some children who struggle, and they don't readily learn these skills through those foundational teaching strategies such as modeling or co-regulation. This might include children with disabilities or suspected delays. Establishing that strong relationship with the parent becomes even more important to get more familiar with and to be aware of the struggles so that you as a home visitor can then explore and use some of those more individualized practices to work on these skills when children need that extra support. We're going to talk some more about that throughout this webinar, but we just thought that would be really important to point that out.

Let's talk a bit more about why problem-solving is important in child development. We know that the earlier that children begin solving those problems, the more ready they are to deal with bigger challenges as they mature. We know that the home is a safe, it's a controlled environment, where parents can direct children as they develop and practice those problem-solving skills. By viewing problems as opportunities to grow, children begin to broaden their understanding while building that confidence that you were talking about.

We also know that when children feel overwhelmed or maybe hopeless, they often, they're not going to attempt to address a problem and that's where some of this challenging behavior for us adults may come up. When they have support, and then adults really support them with that clear formula and some steps for solving problems, they'll feel more confident in their ability to even give it a try. By introducing problem-solving skills at a young age, children learn to think in terms of manageable steps. Sarah, can you share with us how a home visitor might go about this process with families?

Sarah: There are some steps to problem-solving that home visitors can use and introduce to parents and there are some ways that you can support families to incorporate these steps as they encounter social conflict in the home or in socialization. The first is to support children in identifying the problem. This can be simply stating what the problem is out loud and it can make a big difference for children and that even includes infants and toddlers as well as preschool-age children who are feeling stuck. Parents can really think about how to do this in an age-appropriate way to support their child to state what the problem that they're encountering is, such as, your sister doesn't want to play with you, or I see you're having a hard time rolling over, or would you like a turn?

Once the problem has been identified, parents can help their child to think about what some solutions might be to solving their problems. Parents can help to brainstorm possible ways that they might solve that problem. As a home visitor, we can help parents understand that all solutions don't necessarily need to be a good idea, meaning that really just the idea of children coming up with these ideas or sharing some possible solutions. We want to support that process and allow children to share no matter how silly it may sound, and we can support them by offering suggestions to them. The goal is for parents to help their child explore options and the key is to help them do this with creativity and support them to find many different potential solutions because we know that there's not one right way to solve a problem and we want to support children to be able to think of multiple solutions.

Parents can even talk through and help their child identify what the pros and cons of each solution might be. Parents really play this critical role in helping their child identify potential positive and maybe negative consequences for each potential solution they've identified. Once the child has evaluated the possible pros and cons of each solution, the parent can encourage them to pick a solution and try it out and see what happens.

That's where even sometimes those silly solutions that they come up with, it's okay, let them try it out because if it doesn't work, you can support them to try out a different solution. And finally, the last step would be really analyzing or evaluating if it worked. Did this solution that you tried work? Was it, did it solve your problem? And if it doesn't work, you can always come up with a different solution and help them to brainstorm new ones.

Roselia: Thanks Sarah. I think that's a really great way to kind of break down that process and a great way for home visitors to support parents as they're kind of working through that. From your experience as a coach, and then just the various different learning settings that you had the opportunity to work in, why do you think problem-solving is so important?

Sarah: Problem-solving skills give children that independence that they really crave. It gives them agency in their own lives. Even though they may not be able to do this independently right away, when we give children the tools that they need to be able to do this successfully, they're able to navigate interactions with others and it helps to build social competence that they're going to carry with them for the rest of their lives. No matter what the learning environment is that you are in, social interactions are inevitable. They happen all the time. It's important that adults give children the tools that they need and support them to use those tools when they need them so that they become independent and confident in solving these problems when they arise.

Joyce: When Sarah was talking, I said I really love how you made that connection about the importance of parents supporting that, because I think it goes back to what we stated when we started. That about supporting children to become these confident, capable children really does kind of lead into being confident, capable adults who can kind of explore the world around them with all the skills that they need. I think that it just makes a case why this is so important. Because we know that solving problems really is about making choices. As young children develop their problem-solving skills, they build their confidence and we just know that you know, that having all of that, being able to solve problems, figuring things out, really makes them happier, more content, and just independent individuals. That's really what we want.We know when they tackle problems on their own or in a group, they become resilient and persistent. They learn how to look at challenges from a fresh perspective, and therefore, they're confident enough to take more calculated risks and problem-solving is so important in child development.

Again, because we know if we do it and we get it right when they're little, it really turns into this other thing when they become adults that they become confident and capable and are good with taking risk in all kinds of other different ways. Some of you may be wondering why you're here with us, wondering what skills do children need to be successful at problem solving? This is important, like I know it's important. What skills do they need in order to be able to do it well and in order for children to be successful at problem-solving and developing relationships there are a lot of prerequisite skills that are required and needed. 

We're going to talk a little bit about that, but we want to open up the Q and A for you guys to say okay, what skills do you think are important for children? What do you think that they might need in order to problem solve? We're going to ask you to pop that into the Q and A, right there, just click on the Q and A widget and put your responses there. We're going to share some of those out. While you guys are kind of thinking and popping ideas into the Q and A, we want to ask Sarah and bring her into the conversation of, Sarah, can you share with participants what some of those, what you think some of those prerequisites could be?

Sarah: For prerequisite skills, as you mentioned Joyce, problem-solving is really complex and it's going to require that a child be able to do many different things at the same time. When we think about children three and up, what they might need to be successful at problem-solving, then you really need to be able to initiate and respond to others. That could be a verbal or a nonverbal interaction or response, and it would vary, of course, based on the child's age or ability. This might look like if a child wants a toy that another child has, it could look like holding out their hand to ask or asking for a turn. A response might look like the other child saying no, I don't want to give you a turn, or pulling the item back to say, I don't want to give you the toy. Children really need to be able to initiate and respond to be successful at problem solving. 

Another thing that they need to be able to do is identify emotions in themselves and in others. The reason this is important is because have you ever tried to solve a problem when you're upset? It's really hard. You're not thinking clearly. It's just not going to work. Children need to be able to return themselves to that state of calm before they're able to come up with solutions to their problem, or even to recognize what their problem is. Another step is being able to calm themselves or having an adult support them to calm down. 

The next skill might seem obvious, but children really need to be able to identify what the problem is. That could look like a child identifying hey, I've got two apples but there are three siblings here. And what, my problem is I've got two apples, and we don't have enough. Once they've identified the problem, children really need to be able to then come up with possible solutions to solve their problem. That could be that child identifying hey, if I split this apple, we all have some. Or it might be, I don't like apples, so you can have mine. 

These skills that I just mentioned are really higher level for maybe preschool-age children, but a home visitor can also support families of infants and toddlers by setting the stage for problem solving. Making sure the environment really promotes interactions with others. Are there opportunities for that child or other children in the home to engage with one another? There usually are, even in routines that we don't think there are, you can build in possible opportunities. Pointing those out for the family, helping them think about what they might do or say and providing, helping support them to provide more opportunities throughout the day.

Another way that a family could support problem-solving in the environment is narrating or pointing out the intentions or what another child might be wanting or needing so that could sound like, “oh, I see Julia crawling towards you. It looks like she wants to play with your ball.” What this does is really builds awareness of the wants and needs and intentions of others. I think that's so important because often I know you've been around children, you know that sometimes it feels like a threat and when we can narrate what's going on, we can frame what's going on for the child so that then they approach it as in a different way. 

Of course, it's important to share that if a coach is working with a home visitor to support families to use these practices, a coach can help a home visitor identify what those prerequisite skills are that might need to be taught to the child first, the family or the child to be successful. It's important to note that a coach can be an extra set of eyes. And that, some of the things that I mentioned are coming in on the chat, I'm seeing, or in the Q and A, some people are saying kids need to be able to share, kids need to be able to ask for what they need, kids need to be able to identify the problem, and so it looks like you guys are right in line with what we were talking about. Really having friendship skills is important. Thank you so much for your responses.

Joyce: I feel like folks have a lot of ideas to share about what it takes to problem solve. And again, thank you for all your responses; keep them coming in. We just talked about, there are a lot of things needed for children to be successful at problem-solving and we still see a lot of the responses here we see coming in in the chat. We have Kate and Catrina that talk about regulating emotions. We have Tom that talked about think about possible solutions and then also as adults think about how can we help kind of set them up with possible solutions. Thank you for putting all of those things in there. As you can see, there's a list there added to the list that is coming in the Q and A. All of those things all in mind, problem-solving steps that we talked about and how a home visitor might support the development of this process.

Sarah, just to pop in with a quick question here, when you were talking and explaining the, when you were explaining kind of the why. Like why because it kind of helps to take away that threat aspect of it. As a coach we do that with our coachee or home visitor and do you think that there's some importance or connection then as a home visitor having that knowledge than to be able to have that parallel process of sharing that information with a print of like this is why it's important to narrate kind of that parallel top piece. Do you think that that could also be helpful for a home visitor?

Sarah: Yes, absolutely. I think as adult learners, and when you're working with parents, working with adult learners, it's really important for them to know the why. Why are you telling me to narrate? Pairing the narration is important because it helps children feel less threatened by the other child and you share the intentions. Then it helps make it more, gives the parents the why. Why would I do this? And then they know that the possible impact that using that practice might have. It's really a parallel process. What you would, your coach would use with you, you might also use some of those strategies with the families that you would work with.

Joyce: Yeah, thank you for sharing that. I said it was just when you said that, that light bulb went off, like wow, that's important information to kind of share on both sides, so thank you for that. 

Now we're going to just summarize some of those key ideas and practices for home visitors and how they can support some of those problem-solving skills. Again, a lot of things have been coming in through the Q and A. Number one is just to promote healthy relationships, that home visitors can support parents in how they engage with and offer opportunities for young children to work on relationship skills. Sharing and helping and cooperating and comforting and making suggestions about play, even celebrating each other, and creating developmentally appropriate opportunities for practicing those skills throughout the day. 

Home visitors can support parents in creating opportunities within the home as well as exploring options where children can practice turn-taking and sharing. Maybe through a socialization activity. Particularly when you're thinking about when there's just one child in the home, parents may have a concern about their child not having opportunities to engage with other children, so that could be a great time to just kind of pause and think about the value they place on peer relationships and how they might be able to provide some of those opportunities for their child. Thinking about some of those being intentional and some might be planning some outdoor activities, some field trips, some going to the park, visiting with their cousins or whatever that aspect. 

Just knowing that can also help with thinking about, like, 'Wow, every interaction could be a learning moment, an opportunity to kind of learn and grow these skills.' Thinking about teaching problem-solving steps that earlier we talked about - some steps that home visitors can work through with parents. When it comes to developing problem-solving skills, young children are learning to manage their emotions and behaviors through co-regulation. They're beginning to reason and understand simple consequences. Our role as a home visitor, we have that opportunity to work with parents and support the development of problem-solving.

Problem-solving development at this young age allows children to identify problems, brainstorm possible solutions, and then test those out, test out those appropriate solutions, and then analyze and think about, "Okay, so what kind of results did I get? Did I get what I wanted in the end?" Parents can support children to work through these steps and gain confidence in their ability to work through the problems that they encounter.

Another component would be teaching problem-solving in the moment. Problem-solving is hard work. It is hard work, but a 2-year-old solving problems is hard work for everyone involved sometimes. As home visitors, we have that unique opportunity of supporting this process. We want to build a parent's skill base and their confidence really to help their child use problem-solving steps in the moment. As home visitors can partner with parents to brainstorm ways they can anticipate those social conflicts before they happen. When a problem arises, the parent can anticipate or recognize problems before things can escalate and get out of hand and feel overwhelming or intervene as needed to work through those problem-solving steps that home visitors can support. 

How parents individualize strategies they use to provide support, all these skills, really based on the learning kind of style and needs of their child. We know that some children may need the amount of language used to be modified; some children may need visual cues or gestures kind of paired with verbal language; some children may need specific feedback about consequences to really help them learn about the effect of their behavior on the environment really based on the individual needs of that family and the children as well.

Roselia: Thanks for sharing all that, Joyce. That's a lot of great information, and as you were saying all these things that we're doing to support parents or children rather — I think someone mentioned this earlier — about even as adults, problem-solving is difficult for us sometimes. To imagine for children that don't have the words and they're struggling with all these different emotions and wanting to stake their independence, it can really be a tough process. 

As home visitors, we're in that unique position to really help support. Thanks for sharing all that. Throughout this webinar, we've really been discussing ways to foster problem-solving skills for all children. Today, in our focus on equity segment, we're going to use our equity lens to take a closer look and really lift up the value of equity in all learning environments as we work with diverse families in our communities.

As home visitors, it is safe to say that we are working with a diverse group of families, and we never want to make any assumptions. Let's reflect on this question: How can a home visitor be sure that they are being culturally responsive to a family's values related to relationships and problem-solving? Think about that because we know it's not a cookie-cutter approach and we know that there are cultures within cultures. It's important that we don't make any assumptions, and thinking about being culturally responsive, how can a home visitor ensure that that is happening?

We'd like for you to take some time and share some of your thoughts with us in the Q and A. While you're doing that, we do have a few suggestions that we would like for you to consider. First, we want to make sure that the skills that you're introducing are culturally relevant to the family that you're working with. It's important to really take the time and think back to the information that you've gathered as you've been developing a relationship with the family. You want to be sure that you're considering the values, beliefs, what's important to them, what's important that, the importance and the goals that they have for their children, and again, not making any assumptions and really asking these types of questions as you're moving through the process.

We also recommend that you take the time to gather input about social problems that the child may face at home or perhaps other settings that they're participating in. Then lastly, although we just mentioned this, we wanted to place an emphasis on the importance of gathering information about the family's values. As you're building those relationships, as you're observing the family, just really asking those questions, and not making assumptions from your perspective but from how the family states it. It's important to remember that problem-solving and how it is approached is not going to look the same for all families. Again, even if you have families that are from the same culture, what works for one family may not work for another. It's important for the suggestions and the strategies to be culturally responsive and respectful of a family's values. Sarah, folks are still entering their thoughts into the Q and A. Is there anything that you would like to add?

Sarah: Those suggestions you gave are great. Something that I think is important is you want to make sure that teaching problem-solving is relevant. You mentioned that, but we want to make sure that it's meeting the needs of the family, like what you're suggesting. Think about, when I think about it from a coach's perspective, this might be an opportunity to support the home visitor to come up with some ideas.

For example, if a home visitor asks the family what kind of social problems are popping up at home, or in their socialization settings with their child, it could be, “Oh, my child is taking toys, and they don't think sharing is important.” What you might do is offer different suggestions, but it might be tricky for a home visitor if they don't value sharing. What else could I offer? That could be where coming to your coach and trying to brainstorm and problem-solve or with your colleagues or your supervisor. 

If coaching isn't offered, to come up with some different ideas of what they might offer to that family, what they might suggest they teach their child instead. That could be asking for a turn or asking their sibling to give them a turn when they're finished, so there isn't just one right way to do things, and I think sometimes we forget that even as home visitors, our culture and what we value, we bring that into the environment and what we value isn't the only way. That's where getting the input and what the family values because ultimately, you're there to support them to support their child. Remembering that although your culture is relevant as well when you're there to support the family, you want to think about their values and really incorporate it that way.

Some of the responses that are coming in are pretty much in line with what we just talked about. It's looking very similar, getting input from the family, not making assumptions. I'm seeing finding out what they value, learning about their culture is something new that we didn't mention. Getting the parents' input can be really, really helpful. Thank you for those responses.

Joyce: Thank you, and Sarah, like you said, those responses just keep coming in and we encourage you just to keep sharing and keep thinking about, what we need to do to support families in a way that's culturally responsive. 

Now, we want to move into our next portion of our time together, and we want to turn our focus just a bit on looking at how home visitors can support families. We've been talking about this, and that's a great segue into this, so just want to explore that just a little bit more. We want to do that by highlighting the resource, and then you have the link to the resource in your viewer's guide for today.

One resource that was developed by the National Center on Quality Teaching and Learning is “Problem-solving in the Moment.” This is a 15-minute in-service suite developed for preschool classroom teachers to help children problem-solve as they arise or in the moment. We've included a link to those materials in the participant's guide.

The content here really talks about these five steps that support and guide children's behavior to encourage problem-solving in the moment. You'll see that the five steps are here: anticipate, be close, provide support, multiple solutions, and then celebrating the success. We're going to explore each of these steps and relate them to how home visitors can partner with parents to guide their child's behavior at home to problem-solve in the moment. Rosalia is going to help us dig into that a little bit more.

Roselia: Anticipate is the first and very important step of this process. As home visitors, we can really work with parents to try and stay one step ahead of problems by recognizing and being proactive. Home visitors can support parents in sensing some of those changes in a child's behavior, as well as their emotions, and then really starting to pay attention to some of those identifying triggers. Home visitors can also help parents be aware as well as to be ready to activate some of those problem-solving steps that we have been talking about.

Let's move on here and talk about the next step, which is to be close. We know that often parents can be very busy, and they're not always going to be physically close when a problem situation presents itself. What parents can do is to relocate themselves and be near the location when the problem is beginning to occur. That's where it becomes important to start to identify some of those triggers, some of the changes in behaviors that are starting to happen, and then start to relocate. 

We want to work with parents to recognize some signs that a problem is about to occur so that they can then move themselves closer to that situation at this stage, rather than when the problem is in full swing. We want parents to know that when they are close, it's an opportunity for them to be able to explore and to begin to provide some support for their child. As a home visitor, you can really support families in beginning to pay attention, starting to recognize, and when to offer some of that proactive or preemptive support and figuring out some of those patterns of the behavior.

Being close, time also provides for families an opportunity to model how to remain calm and then some of those gentle approaches to problem-solving so when the parents are close, they're better able to support and then talk through identifying the problem as well as some of those possible solutions that we've been talking about. They can also support their child in regulating their emotions before they get to that heightened level, and then it's going to be a lot harder for them to be able to calm down. Parents being close also provides that opportunity for them to be able to provide that comfort that might be needed before things just really become too escalated and get out of control. Joyce, tell us a little bit about what this support might look like.

Joyce: One of the things that home visitors can explore with their family when it comes to being close and providing support for their child is knowing what level of support to provide to really ensure there is a teachable moment taking place. Sometimes, that support means helping their child stay near and in proximity to where the problem happens so they can problem-solve effectively. Sometimes, that could mean prompting their child to walk through the problem-solving steps. 

It can also mean verbal prompting, like, “Do you remember what to do when baby sister doesn't want to take a turn?” or maybe the parent can involve an older sibling in it if they're available, saying, “Hey, let's ask brother what would you do?” Sometimes it's really when children don't have those verbal skills, support can mean to use like visual cues as well and to prompt, that prompts them perhaps, takes them into those problem-solving steps. It really depends; that level of support depends kind of on the specific needs of their child. Knowing it's okay to kind of try out different levels of support to figure out what's needed.

Now we want to talk about the next step, which is multiple solutions. Like we said, there's a whole bunch of different ways to be right about things, and so there can be situations in which one solution maybe a good solution but we know that it may not always work. As children become older, parents can support problem-solving skills by encouraging their child to generate multiple solutions. Maybe with younger children they're going to need parents to support to generate choices or solutions. 

This is going to allow children to begin to grow their own toolbox of solutions to draw from when they encounter problems. The solutions don't need to be complicated and can be as simple as maybe using a timer, waiting patiently, or maybe even flipping a coin. Home visitors can support parents by talking through and really helping parents to determine some solutions they can present and help their child when problem-solving, and when problems arise. Sarah, we just want to tag you in here and ask you, do you have any resources in your toolbox that may support families with identifying solutions at home?

Sarah: There's a great resource from the National Center on Pyramid Model Innovations, and it's called the “Solution Kit.” They have a home edition, and it includes some common solutions to everyday social problems and it comes in multiple languages, which is great. Visual supports can be super helpful for young children and this resource might be something that a home visitor can share with families. 

Another great resource for teaching problem-solving is this scripted story, we can be problem solvers at home. This scripted story can be used by the family to help children understand the steps for problem-solving and it includes some scenario cards that you can use with children to help them think about solutions to common social problems that they're going to face, either in the home or the community. Those are two of my favorite resources.

Roselia: I love those, Sarah. Those are actually some of my favorites as well and I really love that they're visual and that they really have been designed to help support in the home environment, because often we see that there is resources for center-based children, but I love that these are specifically designed for the home. We have included the information in your Participant's Guide Resource List, so we want to make sure that you take the time to explore those and think about ways that you can utilize those with families that you might be supporting. 

Continuing on and thinking about the five steps that we've been talking about, the last step that we want to talk about is just as important as anticipating a problem and that is celebrating success. Reinforcing a child's success in problem-solving really supports their development as effective problem solvers, and as home visitors, we want to be sure that you share this with parents. They can reinforce that celebrating success. It can be formal, or it can be informal. Some examples of that informal celebration might be things such as a high five, acknowledging that they did a really great job, you can give them a thumbs up, a wink, a verbal praise, or even just a hug. 

Just letting them know that you're really proud of how they worked through that particular problem. As home visitors, you can really brainstorm some different options and some of those informal gestures that are culturally appropriate and relevant for their family. Then you can also support them in coming up with some more formal ways to celebrate the success. The important thing here is that we want to make sure that parents are acknowledging when children are working through those problems and that they're becoming much more independent so that children feel accomplished and of course if you recognize it in that positive way, they're going to want to do it again. They're going to feel that appreciation. 

We're going to watch a video clip. In this video clip, you're going to notice that the setting is a preschool classroom and that there are two children that have encountered a problem. We want you to take note on how the teacher handles the situation to really engage the children in working through problem-solving. In your participant's guide, you have some space, and we want for you to take some notes and really pay attention to some of the strategies that the teacher is using. It is a classroom; however, think about how this scenario might play out, perhaps in a home between two siblings or even at a group socialization between two children. Let's take a look.

[Video begins]

Teacher 1: Janny, what's the problem? You're getting it to make the fort and it looks like Amy's holding it too. Thanks, Elena for moving so I could get up. So what are we going to do about it? You both want the same block? What are we going to do about it? How are we going to fix the problem? I'm going to hold the block for a minute while you guys help figure it out. What's your idea?

Child 1: [Inaudible] 

Teacher 1: You want to play with it over there. Shall we find out what Jammy's idea was? What was your idea, Janny?

Child 2: [Inaudible] 

Teacher 1:  Oh, and she thinks she needs it for that building. So, you both need this block for two different buildings. Do you want to look for an idea in the basket? Grab the book. See what you can come up with. There's another one over there, right. I think Amy's got the book. What are we going to do? She's looking, so let's play together, so that would be building the same building together. 

Take a break, so you just take a break from building. Wait until she's done. One more minute, so she would have it for a minute and then you would have it for a minute. You build with something else, maybe next time. Playing together. You would build it together. Do you want to build together, Janny? Look at Amy's talking to you. Sorry, I just said it and Amy was saying it. Sorry about that, Amy. Here. So Amy, you're going to help Janny build her tower.

Child 1: Let's do this one.

Teacher 1: Excellent. You guys are expert problem solvers.

[Video ends] 

Joyce: We see some of the strategies coming through in the Q and A, we'll ask you to keep putting those out there for us, and just want to check in with Rosalia and Sarah to say what did you guys notice anything there about some of those great problem-solving skills that we saw happening?

Sarah: My favorite part of that video is that she really supported those two children to solve their own problem. She gave them support by prompting them to find the materials to help them problem solve. She read through some of the problems with them, or solutions with them, but ultimately the teacher didn't solve the problem for them. And that was really great to see because I think sometimes as adults, we want to be the fixer and in this video the children were really the experts. They were the expert problem solvers here. I thought that was…

Roselia: I agree, Sarah. I really love that and just the anticipation from the teacher, but also having their little solution book that they can kind of, the visual to work through and see they had multiple choices to choose from. That was my favorite part.

Joyce: Yeah, definitely lots to see in that one. I like that one. I think watching the adult and also watching the kids and how they react to that. Sarah, we just want to give you some space as we're kind of wrapping up to hear a little bit more from your coaching experience and just maybe some more tips for supporting home visitors and partnering with families.

Sarah: Sure. It's really important to remember that parents are their children's' best teachers and most children already, most of what children know or what they know when you come into a relationship with that family, has been learned by their parents. As home visitors, when we partner with parents, we really want to set the stage to provide those intentional opportunities for learning within the home setting. 

These tips for child size problems that children can solve with the help of their parents or on their own. Here are some tips that you can share with families to set the stage for their child to become problem solvers. One would be to help the child to relax. When children are faced with a problem, they can become upset, frustrated, angry, they might get their feelings hurt or even cry. 

This is not the time to try to solve the problem. When the child becomes calm, we want to help them to work through their problem, but when they're at the height of these emotions, that's not the time. We want to regulate, use some calming strategies to get them to calm down. Then we can support them to problem solve. You can support families to understand that supporting children to calm down is a really important step of this process. 

We want to make sure that we're giving uninterrupted time. As home visitors you want to partner with parents to help them understand that developing problem-solving skills is complicated and it takes time. Giving them uninterrupted time that's not rushed to talk through and support them to thinking through problems. Also, we want parents to feel like they are a coach. When we're talking about being a coach, we're not talking about home visitors coaching parents but what we mean here is that children at a very young age are still developing these skills. 

We want you to work with parents on developing their ability to identify opportunities and support their children through asking questions and helping their children think and share through what maybe these problems and solutions might be. Active listening is a really important part of this process, as parents it can be hard sometimes, we want to throw out our ideas and suggestions but active listening for children is so important. 

Here are some strategies that a home visitor can share with families, and we want you to jot down some notes in your participant guide. Encourage parents to withhold from solving those problems for children, so support them to support children and not solve them for them. Support parents in developing questions that they might ask when problems arise. Help parents to identify when they are, their critical solutions to their child is proposing, so try not to judge the solution. Sometimes they may be silly; let them try it out. Provide that active listening. All those strategies, you can remember those that will support families.

Joyce: Definitely, and we've included all of these tips in a handout, and that's part of your participant's guide as well. You may think, "What's my role in supporting some of these practices?" Rosalia, if you want to give maybe one kind of tip to close us out, what do you think that one thing would be regarding the role of the home visitor?

Roselia: I think the important thing, and I think Sarah has kind of really touched on this throughout, is just really taking the time to listen to the family. Finding out what's important to them, and then just kind of being a facilitator if you will — just kind of really asking some of those haunting questions to get the parent to start thinking about some of those steps that we talked about, like anticipating that behavior, looking at problem-solving as an opportunity for learning, and just helping children to really put words to those emotions that sometimes even we as adults struggle with. 

I think really being that partner, that reflective partner with the parent, and then providing some of these strategies to help them work through that and again just really seeing it as an opportunity and not necessarily as a behavior that challenges us. Just kind of taking that time to explore with their child and just giving them the words for those emotions to kind of help them become more aware as they kind of go out into the world and face some of those social conflicts if you will. That would be my suggestion.

Joyce: I think that's a great one to leave us with today. Thank you, Sarah, so much for joining us. Thank you everyone here. If you have any questions or anything, drop them in the Q and A. Also, feel free to reach out to us, we have to keep this conversation going, and we will see you guys next time. Thank you.

How young children approach and solve problems is critical to their overall development. Problem-solving supports how young children understand the world around them. It can impact their ability to form relationships as well as the quality of those relationships. Supporting the development of problem-solving skills is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Explore strategies and resources home visitors can use to partner with parents to strengthen and nurture these skills and help children cope with challenges as they arise. 

Note: The evaluation, certificate, and engagement tools mentioned in the video were for the participants of the live webinar and are no longer available. For information about webinars that will be broadcast live soon, visit the Upcoming Events section.

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National Centers: Early Childhood Development, Teaching and Learning

Age Group: Infants and Toddlers

Audience: Home Visitors

Series: Home Visiting Series

Last Updated: April 5, 2024

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25 of Our Favorite Low-Stimulation Shows for Toddlers

• May 14, 2024

We all like to kick back sometimes with a nice, relaxing show. Toddlers are the same way! Try these low-stimulation shows for toddlers for a peaceful moment of fun and relaxation minus the overstimulation.

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Tumble Leaf

Next up is the whimsical, stop-motion world of “Tumble Leaf.” This charming series stars Fig the Fox and his best buddy, a lovable Caterpillar named Stick.

Together, these unlikely pals uncover wonders in their natural surroundings. What’s truly magical about “Tumble Leaf” is its stop-motion animation, which makes it visually captivating yet soothing.

The stories also encourage curiosity and scientific thinking by turning everyday events into fun, educational adventures. It’s a perfect blend of gentle learning and playful exploration.

Max & Ruby

Oh, the delightful world of “Max & Ruby”! This series features Ruby, a patient big sister, and her little brother Max, who’s full of curiosity and mischief.

What makes “Max & Ruby” ideal for toddlers who need low-stimulation TV? It’s all in the show’s clean, simple animation style and the straightforward simplicity of its plotlines.

The show provides gentle lessons on family, problem-solving, and independence. And it’s all delivered in a calm and endearing way that keeps little ones engaged and learning.

Take a stroll down memory lane with “Franklin,” a show you might remember from your own childhood! Now you can introduce your toddlers to this timeless turtle.

In this absolutely charming animated series, Franklin the young turtle and his group of diverse animal friends explore their world. They life lessons about friendship, kindness, and problem-solving.

The series is known for its gentle narrative and slow-paced storytelling, making it a fantastic choice for little ones who thrive in low-stimulation environments .

George and Martha

“George and Martha” is another charming series that might bring back fond memories. Released in 1999, this delightful throwback is all about hippo friends George and Martha.

The series is full of warmth and wit, centering on the funny and sometimes touching adventures of these two hippos as they navigate their friendship.

The straightforward, uncluttered animation style and the subtle, dry humor make it an excellent pick for toddlers who need low-stimulation content. Plus, each story conveys valuable life lessons!

Dinosaur Train

Hop aboard the “Dinosaur Train” for a prehistoric adventure! This animated series captivates young minds with its brilliant combo of dinosaurs and trains.

The show follows Buddy the T-Rex and his adoptive Pteranodon family as they ride the Dinosaur Train to meet and learn about other dinosaurs.

The series cleverly combines factual content about prehistoric creatures with charming and engaging stories, with gentle pacing that’s perfect for little viewers who need low stimulation.

Little Bear

“Little Bear” is often touted as one of the coziest low-stimulation shows for toddlers, and for good reason! It’s been around since 1995 , but it still holds up.

The series is based on the Little Bear book series, which was animated by Maurice Sendak. Sendak also co-created the show, which helps explain its quality.

The show follows six-year-old grizzly bear cub Little Bear and his forest friends as they play, explore, and go on cozy adventures through the woods.

Miffy’s Adventures Big and Small

“Miffy’s Adventures Big and Small” invites toddlers into the gentle, enchanting world of Miffy the bunny! This beautiful show is based on the beloved books by Dick Bruna.

This series is ideal for little ones who benefit from low-stimulation entertainment because the animation is clean and minimalistic, using bold, primary colors and clear lines.

Each episode sees Miffy exploring the world around her, tackling everyday adventures that are big in heart and lessons, yet small enough for tiny viewers to grasp.

Bonnie Bear

Offering a delightful viewing experience for toddlers, “Bonnie Bear” is filled with gentle adventures and heartwarming lessons. It’s one of our favorite low-stimulation shows for toddlers.

This charming series centers around Bonnie Bear, of course! She’s a kind and curious little bear who explores her woodland world with a cool-headed attitude.

It provides slow-paced storytelling and soft, muted color palette that soothes rather than stimulates. Each episode of “Bonnie Bear” gently introduces themes of friendship, sharing, and discovery.

Charlie and Lola

“Charlie and Lola” is a delightful series with a unique charm and creativity, making it a wonderful choice for toddlers — especially those in need of low-stimulation TV!

This imaginative show features Charlie, a patient older brother, and his spirited younger sister, Lola. Together, they navigate the wonders and challenges of childhood.

The whimsical art style, with its mixed-media collage effects, offers visual interest without overstimulation. It expertly draws little viewers into Charlie and Lola’s colorful world.

“Clangers” is a delightful escape to a whimsical, moon-like planet, inhabited by the adorable Clangers family. This classic series has charmed generations and is perfect for toddlers.

The soft, knitted characters speak in gentle whistles, creating a soothing auditory experience. The pastel-colored landscapes and captivating stop-motion animation are also easy on young eyes.

Each episode of “Clangers” is filled with quiet adventures, with themes of kindness and curiosity. The pace is leisurely, allowing little viewers to absorb the subtle storytelling.

Harry the Bunny

This charming series delightfully introduces toddlers to their first concepts, like colors, numbers, and simple words. “Harry the Bunny” has a very low-stimulation approach and a soothing pace.

In it, Harry, the adorable and fluffy main character, explores his colorful world with curiosity and joy, making learning engaging and fun. The show uses soft, inviting colors and simple, clear visuals.

Harry’s interactions with his surroundings are slow-paced and repetitive, which is great for toddlers. And each segment is short enough to hold young attention spans!

“Pocoyo” is another bright and cheerful series that captivates toddlers with its simplicity and charm. This animated show stars Pocoyo, a curious little boy dressed in blue.

Pocoyo explores the world around him with his band of adorable friends, including Pato the duck, Elly the elephant, and Loula the dog. It uses bright, primary colors.

The narrative structure of “Pocoyo” is straightforward and narrated with gentle humor by Stephen Fry, whose soothing voice guides the little ones through each learning adventure.

“Oswald” invites young viewers into a world filled with kindness and gentle whimsy. This charming series features Oswald, an oversized blue octopus, who navigates life in Big City.

He works together with an eclectic group of friends, including a penguin named Henry and a daisy named Daisy. The show is delightfully cozy with soft, rich animation.

This gentle style and slow-paced storytelling create a soothing atmosphere that’s perfect for toddlers who do better with low-stimulation entertainment. Episodes focus on themes like friendship and problem-solving.

This sweet and endearing series has been captivating young audiences for years with its simple and charming tales. It’s centered around Musti, a friendly little kitten.

“Musti” explores everyday adventures and life lessons in a way that’s perfectly tailored to toddlers. The animation is notably simplistic, with clear, bright colors and basic shapes.

The pacing of “Musti” is gentle, with each episode unfolding in a calm and leisurely manner. Stories often focus on themes like friendship, curiosity, and kindness.

Llama Llama

“Llama Llama,” based on the book series by Anna Dewdney, brings the adventures of Little Llama and his mama to the screen in a wonderfully warm and engaging way.

This show is perfect for toddlers, particularly those who prefer a calm viewing experience. With its bright and expressive animation, “Llama Llama” captures the essence of childhood experiences.

Each episode focuses on challenges such as making friends, sharing, or trying new activities. It’s all resolved with the reassuring presence of Mama Llama.

“Arthur” stands as a beacon of gentle, educational entertainment, perfect for young viewers and even nostalgic for parents who might remember watching it themselves.

Set in the world of an endearing aardvark named Arthur Read and his diverse group of friends, this show tackles everyday challenges and adventures with a thoughtful approach.

The series is known for its ability to address complex social and emotional issues in a manner that’s accessible and reassuring for children.

• cartoon , longform , low-stimulation , low-stimulation shows for toddlers , low-stimulation tv shows , low-stimulation tv shows for toddlers , television , toddlers , tv

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2-year-old Elmont math prodigy 'Baby Dev' appearing on 'America's Got Talent'

Two-year-old Baby Dev, pictured with his father, shows off his math skills on "America's Got Talent." Credit: NBC/Trae Patton

A 2-year-old math prodigy from Elmont will be among the acts when NBC's variety competition “America’s Got Talent” returns for its 19th season Tuesday at 8 p.m. 

In TikTok videos that have garnered as many as 36 million views apiece, Devan Defreitas, known as Baby Dev, joyfully does mathematics equations — 14 x 12, anyone? — on dry-erase boards, sounding out each number as he does so. One video shows him flawlessly identifying Roman numerals.

Another has him solving word problems: “Mama gave Devan $30 and Dada gave Devan another $10. How much money does Devan have?” With no coaching, he writes “$30 + $10 = $40.” Where numbers are concerned, this pre-K kid could probably compete on “Are You Smarter than a 5th Grader?”

Dad Duane Defreitas says he still is processing all the attention coming his family’s way —including remote appearance on “CBS Mornings” with Gayle King and NBC’s “The Kelly Clarkson Show” — since the first video went up in September. “Sometimes I'm just kind of like, ‘Oh, it's nothing,’” Defreitas, 44, told Newsday. “But then it's like, ‘Wow, is this really happening?’”

Defreitas had never had a TikTok account, he said, “but you always hear about TikTok through friends or whatever. That's the thing these young kids are into nowadays. So I said, ‘Hey, why not make one for Devan and see what happens?’” The videos went viral and “not too long after that, the producers from AGT reached out to us.”

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Defreitas, who also has an 8-year-old son and 10-year-old daughter in Mount Sinai “with my first two kids' mother,” asked that Devan’s mother not be named. But she was, he says, part of that day when they first glimpsed Devan’s instinct for math.

“He had a slight speech delay,” Defreitas said, “so he didn't say ‘Mama, Dada.’ And one day he was watching one of his number videos and they were singing the number-seven song, and he just blurred out, 'Seven! Seven!'” as his first words. “And his mother and I just looked at each other with our eyes open and we actually caught that on video, too,” when he said it again.

Defreitas, who was born in Brooklyn and raised in Queens, played football at Flushing High School and later at Marist College in Poughkeepsie. He left that school to get an associate degree at Nassau Community College, he says, and afterward enrolled at Manhattan’s Fashion Institute of Technology. He left there to intern for a fashion company, and when the internship ended, rather than return to school he followed in his father Lincoln’s footsteps as an NYPD officer.

Beginning 2005, Defreitas served at Transit District 20 in Jamaica, Queens. He moved to Hempstead around 2010 and retired from the force in 2014 when “I tore my Achilles tendon while affecting an arrest, when somebody resisted arrest. … I heard a loud pop” and felt a pain “like bowling ball dropped from the sky and fell on my ankle.”

He says he still walks with a limp — “some days are better than others” — and with his retirement pension decided “I'm just going to spend time with my kids and raise my kids. And that's exactly what I do.” He moved to Bay Shore and then to Commack, before settling in Elmont in 2019 — keeping the Commack house to rent out on Airbnb and otherwise use as a second home.

There, Devan “hangs out in the pool. He loves to swim. And there are a lot of farms out there, and he loves animals.”

He also enjoyed being on AGT, his dad says. “He had never been on a stage so I was a little worried how he would react. But he loved the crowd. He loves being cheered on. He loves when we clap for them. So he soaked everything up and loved it.”

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• The Best Shows for Kids That Had No Disney or Nickelodeon Ties

Nickelodeon and Disney might come to mind when you think of great kids shows. After all, both networks have been producing programming for kids for decades.

Despite that fact, both companies have been under fire in recent years, particularly Nickelodeon, following the release of the Quiet on Set documentary.

Here is the perfect list if you want to expose your kids to some great shows that are not associated with either company.

Hanna-Barbera Classics (Various)

The Hanna-Barbera cartoons are classics that kids and adults of all ages can enjoy together. Many of them are geared toward children but include jokes to amuse adults.

Founded by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera in the late 1950s, Hanna-Barbera Productions produced 249 cartoon series between the 1950s and 1980s. Many of those have since become beloved classics.

A personal favorite of mine is Scooby Doo, and many fans share my love for the crime-solving dog and his Mystery Inc. crew.

Scooby, Fred, Velma, Daphne, and Shaggy were first introduced in the series Scooby Doo, Where Are You? It premiered in 1969. Since then, there have been many reincarnations of the characters in various cartoon and live-action shows and movies.

Huckleberry Hound, Magilla Gorilla, Fred Flintstone, and George Jetson are just some of the other iconic characters the company created over the years.

All of the Sid and Marty Krofft Shows

In the era of the rerun, we '80s kids thankfully got to immerse ourselves in the imaginative world of Sid and Marty Krofft, a world first created with the release of the show H.R. Pufnstuf in 1969.

Pufnstuf (voiced by Lennie Weinrib) and his whimsical friends lived on an island inhabited by living trees and a witch named Witchipoo (Billie Hayes), who was always up to no good. A boy named Jimmy (Jack Wild) and his magic flute, Freddy, were stranded on the island and kept having to avoid her sneaky tricks.

After that show came more great Krofft creations that inspired the imaginations of generations of kids, for example, we could immerse ourselves in the world of dinosaurs on Land of the Lost, dancing hats on Lidsville, or the musical land of the flying Bugaloos.

Land of the Lost was so popular that it inspired a short ABC remake series from 1991 to 1992 and the 2009 film Land of the Lost, although that film was only loosely based on the original series.

Reading Rainbow

LeVar Burton is a personal hero to me, and many consider him a living international treasure. He is famous for his roles in Roots and Star Trek: The Next Generation, and he has singlehandedly instilled the love of reading and learning in generations of children worldwide.

LeVar's pet project for the last several decades has been the show Reading Rainbow.

The original Reading Rainbow was a show that introduced kids to new books they might enjoy. It was simple enough, but LeVar's ability to connect with kids and the fact that he had real kids talk about most of the books on the show captured our attention.

The show ran continuously on PBS from 1983 through 2006. Yet, many of us thought it was still gone too soon. As LeVar often said in the episodes, you don't have to take my word for it.

Petitions were almost immediately circulated to get it rebooted, and LeVar also wanted it back. That led to the creation of a Reading Rainbow app and later a Kickstarter campaign to relaunch the series, which became one of the most successful Kickstarter campaigns in the website's history.

Captain Planet and the Planeteers

This fantastic show, known simply as Captain Planet to those who grew up watching it, originally aired from 1990 to 1996.

As the theme song said, Captain Planet was fighting on the planet's side. He worked with five teens from different countries to stop polluters and those destroying the environment.

The teens had magic rings, controlling elements like fire and water.

Interestingly, LeVar Burton voiced the character Kwame, who had the power to move dirt and rock.

The 113-episode series, initially produced by DIC Enterprises before Hanna-Barbera took over production for the last two seasons, is still beloved today. It helped teach an entire generation about the importance of caring for wildlife, each other, and the planet.

Liberty's Kids

Another great DIC Enterprises series produced in conjunction with WHYY and originally aired on PBS Kids was Liberty's Kids (2002-2003). This fantastic cartoon show highlighted the important events and historical figures connected to the Revolutionary War but was sadly and surprisingly short-lived.

Liberty's Kids was unique because it told stories about the war through children's eyes. It was an excellent tool for teaching kids history and was frequently shown in schools.

A great thing about Liberty's Kids for those who saw it in our late teens or adulthood is that we could recognize some fantastic guest stars who contributed their voice-acting talents to it.

Comedians Billy Crystal and Ben Stiller played John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, respectively. However, one of the biggest names to grace the series was newsman Walter Cronkite, who voiced Benjamin Franklin in all 40 episodes.

Other famous figures who popped up on the series included Annette Bening, Dustin Hoffman, and Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Long before it was the name of a popular video conferencing app, ZOOM was an excellent show for kids, but it was also created almost entirely by kids. The 1972-1978 series originated at WGBH-TV in my home state of Massachusetts and aired on PBS.

ZOOM was a fun show because all of the activities presented on it were suggested by fans, so viewers were encouraged to send in suggestions. There were science experiments, jokes, recipes, games, and more.

Interestingly, ZOOM even included a made-up language. It was called Ubbi-Dubbi and was another great way to attract kids. Ubbi-Dubbi was so popular that many adults still remember how to speak it. It is even spoken in my household from time to time.

The program had such staying power in the minds of kids who viewed it that they grew up to insist it come back, and their wishes were granted. The remake series aired from 1999 to 2005. Both versions are still frequently watched on websites like YouTube.

Fraggle Rock/Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock

Another staple show for those of us who were '80s kids, Fraggle Rock, originally aired from 1983 to 1987.

The show was created by famous puppeteer Jim Henson and his crew and produced through a joint venture between HBO in the United States and UK and Canadian production companies.

The show highlighted creatures called Fraggles, who lived in harmony, hidden from "the silly creatures" (humans) in an underground world.

The Fraggles' daily activities always focused on basic life lessons, such as the importance of returning borrowed items, and their often musical exploits made the life lessons they taught highly memorable.

Fraggles were so popular that a reboot series, Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock, began airing on Apple TV+ in 2022. Its second season was released in March 2024.

Sesame Street

Another fantastic show featuring Jim Henson's Muppets we've all grown up on is Sesame Street, which is also the most successful show for kids in television history.

Sesame Street has aired continuously in the United States since its 1969 premiere, and versions of it are now aired in many other countries worldwide.

As you probably know, the show features a mixture of human actors and Muppets. They teach basic lessons like counting and spelling through songs, skits, and, in some cases, candid chats.

As a kid, I picked up some Spanish-speaking skills from Sesame Street. The show also taught us many valuable lessons about essential subjects, including dealing with death.

Like Liberty's Kids, it's another show that has heavily emphasized guest stars over the years. Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, Billy Joel, and many more appeared on the show, but a favorite of many was Robin Williams .

Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood/Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood

Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood, often just called Mr. Rogers, was another TV staple for my generation and several others. It aired from 1968 until 1976 and then came back in 1979. New episodes continued to air until 2001 when clergyman turned TV host Fred Rogers retired.

A friend to all, Mr. Rogers used his part live-action and part puppet show to teach lessons about everything from disabilities to musical instruments. I particularly love an episode featuring a skit on how crayons were made as a kid.

Mr. Rogers didn't shy away from the challenging issues of the day. He even dipped his toes into a kiddie pool with an African American friend to show his stance on racism.

One of his most memorable moments came after the 9/11 attacks when he reassured us all and told us to "look for the helpers" in such trying times.

Fred Rogers passed away in 2003, but Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood still airs on streaming apps, as does Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood, a spinoff of the original show based on puppets he created.

Other shows for kids of all ages have come out over the years without Nickelodeon or Disney's help. They have each been fun, unique, and often educational.

For those who grew up watching classic shows for kids , nostalgia often still draws us to them today. Some of us even own our favorites on DVD or Blu-Ray.

Did you have a favorite show as a kid? Was it one of those mentioned above?

Do you sometimes rewatch it today for fun or to share it with your kids?

Let us know what your favorites were in the comments section below.

Jessica Kosinski is a staff writer for TV Fanatic. You can follow her on X .

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The risk-taking activity that ‘helicopter parents’ should allow their kids to experience

Editor’s note: The views expressed in this commentary are solely those of the writers. CNN is showcasing the work of The Conversation , a collaboration between journalists and academics to provide news analysis and commentary. The content is produced solely by The Conversation.

There is ongoing concern about the impact of “ helicopter parenting ” on children’s growth and development.

Keen to ensure the best outcomes for their children, helicopter parents tend to hover over their kids, constantly trying to prevent misadventure or harm.

But child experts say this can lead to a  lack of resilience and tenacity  in children. Children can also struggle with problem-solving and initiative.

How can we overcome this?

We are educators who study risky environments. Our  new research  looks at parents’ perceptions of an outdoor play park. It shows how outdoor parks provide opportunities for children to engage in risky play and develop independence and problem-solving skills.

The importance of risk

Risk-taking means engaging in any behavior or activity with an uncertain physical, social, emotional or financial outcome.

Risk is an everyday part of life, from driving a car to buying a house at auction or climbing a ladder.

We cannot eliminate risk, so we need to learn how to navigate it. It means taking responsibility for assessing potential consequences and taking necessary precautions. For example, crossing the road carries risk, but we learn how to look for cars or cross at traffic lights if the road is busy.

Recognizing and appropriately responding to risk-taking is an integral aspect of children’s growth and development. In 1998, US educator and wilderness guide Jeff Liddle  observed risk was instrumental  to lifelong learning.

Outdoor experiences are particularly good places to  develop skills around risk  because they are not a controlled environment. For example, no two trees are the same to climb, and conditions can vary depending on the weather.

READ MORE: ‘It’s not fair!’ Kids grumble and complain for a reason. Here’s how to handle it

In a  new study , we surveyed parents and caregivers about children’s risk-taking in the Boongaree nature play park in Berry, New South Wales.

The park includes fixed equipment such as slides and climbing ropes as well as natural elements such as water, stone, timber, sand and greenery.

We chose Boongaree after it became the focus of media and social media debate due to a  spate of injuries , including broken bones. The Daily Mail  suggested  it was Australia’s “most dangerous playground.” Following community concerns, the park’s tunnel slide was  replaced  in May with another slide with less “momentum.”

Over multiple visits to the park in June, we recruited 302 adults to complete a survey about their children’s park use. We then followed up with a closed Facebook group of 56 parents from the same group.

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The benefits of risk

We asked parents to share their views about the park, and they told us risky park play had many benefits. These included allowing children to:

• be challenged and solve problems

• connect to the outdoors

• direct their own play

• be physically active

• be creative and curious

• demonstrate confidence and independence and

• build social capacity, by sharing equipment and taking turns.

As one parent told us: “The look on children’s faces as they reach the top of climbing ropes and start walking across the bridges is fabulous — grit and determination, followed by a big deep breath. …”

Another parent spoke of the importance of giving kids the opportunity to “make their own decisions about the risk they want to take, how high or how fast they will go.”

Yet another parent described how the park gave children the “freedom to play in any way they feel comfortable.”

READ MORE: Bluey teaches children and parents alike about how play supports creativity — and other life lessons

How to support your child in outdoor, risky play

So next time you go to the park, how can you support your child to take appropriate risks? Here are some tips, based on  our work  on children, risk and outdoor play:

Start with a positive mindset:  Playgrounds are designed to develop physical and social skills. So be prepared for your child to try new things at the park (rather than just play it safe with the same old equipment).

Be ready to support — and to stand back:  There are times when it is best to stand back and let children experience the equipment or the area for themselves. There are others where parents are needed. So keep a monitoring eye on things. But don’t assume you will be helping all the time.

Language matters:  Try to steer away from language such as “be careful.” This can set children up to be afraid of a situation. Reframe your language to something more supportive such as “Is there a stronger piece of wood to put your foot on?” or “Have you seen the hole over there?”

You could also say something like, “Look around, do you want to explore left or right?” This prompts your child to think about the best approach for them and builds self-confidence and problem-solving skills.

Give useful advice:  Help children with specific guidance on how to use equipment safely. For example, when climbing you could say, “Use three points of contact, two hands and one foot on that ladder.”

Let the child decide:  Allow your child to decide what pieces of equipment they use and how far they climb. Do not push them to complete activities they are not comfortable with. And by the same token, intervene only when the equipment is clearly above their skill development level.

Have fun:  Show excitement, join in the imaginative games and reinforce the message that it is acceptable to say no or yes to challenge — both choices are OK!

READ MORE: Can parents give their children too much attention?

Tonia Gray is a professor in the Centre for Educational Research at Western Sydney University in Australia. Jaydene Barnes is an associate lecturer at Western Sydney University. Marion Sturges is an academic professional adviser and lecturer in education at Western Sydney University. The authors wish to acknowledge Amanda Lloyd, who contributed to the research on which this article is based. The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

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