13 Fun & Wholesome TV Shows for Kids

The Little Bear TV series is based on the classic book series by Else Holmelund Minarik originally published between 1957-2010. The show which ran from 1995-2001 on Nick Jr. is easily one of the most wholesome children’s TV shows. It’s packed full of character building truths, lessons on friendship, and peaceful background music. My own two children are a bit older than the target audience and still enjoy this wonderful show from time to time.

Franklin is another classic about a kind turtle family navigating life in the village of Woodland. Young Franklin seems to always be learning some important lesson about kindness, honesty, and courage to name a few.

Bluey is a newer Australian TV series for kids that has created loyal fans all over the world for its unique humor and focus on family. Bluey is a Blue Heeler pup with one curious mind and quite an imagination. She often goes on exciting adventures with her dad, mum, and little sis, Bingo.

This classic from my childhood originally aired in 1985. A second Berenstain Bears series was launched in 2003. Generosity and responsibility are two key themes woven throughout this popular kids tv show. Brother Bear and Sister Bear are always learning, growing, and making memories that will inspire your child to do the same.

The storyline of Paddington Bear is truly heartwarming. The Brown family discovers a lonesome bear from darkest Peru at Paddington Station and adopts him as their own. This sweet fellow (who has a special love of orange marmalade) makes plenty of mistakes, but graciously learns from each and every one. There are multiple remakes of this series. We enjoy both the 1997 series and the 2020 series.

Curious George is still one of our family’s favorite TV shows for kids! George is a kind and curious little monkey with a keen ability to make everyone smile as he discovers the fascinating world of “The Man With the Yellow Hat” (his owner).

Winnie the Pooh is perhaps the most well-known of all and for good reason! This sweet series about friendship is a wholesome choice for young children.

My daughter devoured this best-selling book series by Andrew Peterson and was thrilled to discover they were creating a TV version last year. The gifted Igiby siblings are on a journey to discover the secret of the Jewels of the Shining Isle. Join them as they search for truth and fight the dangerous creatures of the Dark Sea of Darkness. 

The Wingfeather Saga is the largest ever crowd funded animated series and is available to watch for free on the Angel Studios website (the same company that produced the hit series “The Chosen”). Season 2 is currently in the making.

Superbook is a children’s show that will engage families of all ages. The computer graphics and visual effects of this reboot series are truly stunning! Chris, Joy, and their sidekick robot, Gizmo, are pointed towards God’s Word as they face trials in life. There they meet fascinating biblical characters who experienced the same struggles they’re facing and learn precious truths as they seek to follow the Lord.

I’m so glad we stumbled upon this kids TV series a couple of years back! Torchlighters dives into the lives of Christian “heroes of the faith”. These 22 episodes tell the true stories of well-known missionaries, evangelists, pastors, and courageous men and women who compassionately yet boldly took a stand for Christ and made a difference in the world around them.

Although this one isn’t exactly a TV series per se it was too good not to mention and brings back a bit of VHS nostalgia for me! The Last Chance Detectives is a series of 3 movies about four friends who solve mysteries while learning God’s truths along the way. Kids will glean wisdom as they learn from the strengths and weaknesses of characters Mike, Ben, Spence, and Winnie.

Mr. Ed, the talking horse, still makes me smile as an adult. The 1960s sitcom follows the story of architect Wilbur Post and his best friend, Ed (an often disgruntled Palomino horse). This classic family comedy is sure to create some laughs! I’d say this one is a good TV show for 7 year olds and up.

As far as good entertainment goes, Lassie is about as sweet and wholesome as it gets! I remember as a little girl waking up early on Saturday mornings to watch these reruns. Little Timmy models respect, kindness, and obedience as he and his best pal, Lassie, go on adventures together.