Educational TV that keeps kids entertained AND learning!

You probably know Netflix for it's mind-boggling plethora of binge-worthy content for adults, but the ubiquitous streaming service also carries a wide variety of educational programming for kids, as well. This curated list of the 10 best early learning shows on Netflix will engage, entertain, and educate - with subject material ranging from science to reading, and a healthy dose of 21st Century skills, to boot.

Grades:
The Magic School Bus Rides Again

The Magic School Bus Rides Again

If you liked the original The Magic School Bus, you're going to love this revamp. Miss Frizzle is now Dr. Frizzle, and she's off to explore the world. She leaves her class, now one year older, in the capable and quirky hands of her younger (and more fashion-forward) sister as they take to the school bus to explore magnetism, allergies and talking trees (I didn't know trees talk to each other, either). This show is perfect for curious preschoolers and kids starting grade school.
Storybots

Storybots

StoryBots explores the world through simple questions. The shows combine music, comedy (including subtle jokes for adults), and fun animation to keep a wide range of kids' interest (ages 3 to 8) as they find out how french fries are made and why kids have to brush their teeth. Guest appearances by stars like Whoopie Goldberg, Jay Leno and Weird Al Yankovic don't hurt, either.
Bill Nye

Bill Nye The Science Guy

A classic show about the oddities of science that has stood the test of time and is now available on Netflix. Geared toward a slightly older audience, but appropriate for most elementary students, as well. The show combines a great introduction to basic science and lab concepts with a generous dose of offbeat humor and quirkiness.
The Cat in the Hat

The Cat in the Hat Knows A Lot About That

Pre-K and kindergartners will love following the Cat in the Hat, Nick and Sally as they fly off to adventures in the Thinga-ma-jigger. Everywhere they go, they meet new animal friends and learn all about trees, fish, butterflies, and all kinds of creatures. Thing One, Thing Two and Fish are along for the ride, too! Adapted from the classic children's books by Dr. Seuss.
Llama Llama

Llama Llama

Another show adapted from a children's book, this one also teaches kids those essential social skills they need to succeed in school and in life. In this show, made for infants to young toddlers, they'll learn about respect, generosity and kindness as they follow Llama Llama his friends along on their daily adventures.
Beat Bugs

Beat Bugs

Keep those 21st-Century Skills sharp with these cute little guys. In every episode, toddlers and preschoolers learn about more abstract concepts, like problem-solving, empathy and what it means to be a community. The best part? Every episode includes a Beatles song.
Super Why

Super Why

Join the Super Readers as they learn to spell and read through classic children's stories. This show, for toddlers and preschoolers just learning to read is interactive and very formulaic, so it's easy for kids to follow along. In every episode, they start with the letters of the alphabet, move on to phonics and then try to read whole words.
Earth to Luna

Earth to Luna

This show for 3- to 5-year-olds originally aired in Brazil. It combines funky music with bright colors and upbeat characters that explore the world around them through their imagination. Luna, her brother Jupiter and their pet ferret Clyde ask questions, test hypotheses and come to conclusions about everything from the formation of rainbows to the reason why cats have whiskers.
The Who Was Show

The Who Was Show

We've covered a lot of science shows. Now, it's time for a history lesson! Each episode of The Who Was Show teaches kids about two different historical figures through funny live-action skits. Kids might learn about Pablo Picasso, the Wright Brothers or Joan of Arc. This show is great for your older kids (ages 7 and up).
Julie's Greenroom

Julie's Greenroom

The unstoppable Julie Andrews teaches preschoolers all about the performing arts, the premise of the show being that theater is for everyone. Kids will learn not only about what happens on stage, but the work that goes on behind the scenes, as well.

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