Did you know that kids spend over 2 hours a day watching streaming content? Choosing the right educational streaming for kids can turn screen time into a learning tool. Let’s explore the best options available in 2026 that balance fun and education while keeping safety a priority.
Why Educational Streaming Matters for Kids
Not all screen time is created equal. Educational shows build real skills like problem-solving, literacy, and empathy-without feeling like homework. Take BlueyA popular Australian animated series about a blue heeler puppy, teaching social skills through playful family adventures.. It’s not just cute; it shows kids how to handle emotions and conflicts. Similarly, NumberblocksA BBC show that uses colorful blocks to teach math concepts like addition and multiplication through storytelling. makes math feel like a game. Parents often worry about screen time, but quality educational content actually supports development. Studies from the American Academy of PediatricsA professional organization that provides guidelines on child health, including recommendations for media use. show that well-designed shows improve school readiness when used intentionally.
Top Platforms for Educational Content
Here’s how leading streaming services stack up for educational value in 2026:
| Platform | Top Educational Shows | Parental Controls Features | Cost (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Netflix KidsA dedicated section within Netflix for children’s content, featuring shows like 'Sesame Street' and 'Nature Cat'. | Sesame Street, Bluey, Nature Cat, Odd Squad | Profile-level restrictions, content filters, PIN-protected profiles | $9.99 |
| Disney+ KidsA child-friendly mode on Disney+ with curated content from Disney, Pixar, and National Geographic. | Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Doc McStuffins, Nature | Custom profiles, maturity filters, screen time limits | $13.99 |
| PBS KidsFree ad-supported streaming service from the Public Broadcasting Service, focused entirely on educational content. | Sesame Street, Wild Kratts, Arthur | No account required, content pre-screened for age-appropriateness | $0 |
| Khan Academy KidsA free app and website offering interactive learning activities for early childhood education. | Math, reading, and social-emotional learning games | Activity tracking, no ads, no account needed | $0 |
| YouTube KidsA child-friendly version of YouTube with curated content and parental controls. | Blippi, Cosmic Kids Yoga, National Geographic Kids | Time limits, content filters, supervised accounts | $0 (ad-supported), $4.99 (ad-free) |
For example, PBS KidsA free ad-supported streaming service from the Public Broadcasting Service, focused entirely on educational content. has no subscription fees but requires internet access. It’s perfect for families on a budget. Meanwhile, Khan Academy KidsA free app and website offering interactive learning activities for early childhood education. offers structured lessons in math and reading-ideal for parents who want to supplement schoolwork. Amazon FreeTimeA subscription service on Amazon that provides curated educational content for kids with parental controls. is great for Prime members who want everything in one place.
Parental Controls Features to Look For
Not all platforms handle safety equally. Here’s what matters most in 2026:
- Content filters: Platforms like Disney+ KidsA child-friendly mode on Disney+ with curated content from Disney, Pixar, and National Geographic. let you block shows above a certain maturity level. This prevents accidental exposure to unsuitable content.
- Screen time limits: YouTube KidsA child-friendly version of YouTube with curated content and parental controls. lets you set daily timers. Once the clock runs out, the app locks until tomorrow-no arguments needed.
- Profile-specific restrictions: Netflix lets you create separate profiles for kids. Each profile has its own content filters, so your teen’s account won’t accidentally show preschool shows to younger siblings.
- No ads: Ad-free options like Khan Academy KidsA free app and website offering interactive learning activities for early childhood education. mean no sneaky commercial interruptions during learning time.
Real-world example: A parent in Auckland, New ZealandThe city where the author resides, known for its tech-savvy families and diverse media consumption habits. told us they use Netflix’s PIN-protected profiles to keep preschool content separate from teen shows. This stopped their 5-year-old from accidentally watching horror movies on their older sibling’s account. Simple setup, huge peace of mind.
How to Set Up Safe Viewing for Your Child
Follow these steps for a worry-free experience:
- Create a child profile: On most platforms, go to "Account Settings" and select "Add Child Profile." Set an age range so the platform filters content automatically.
- Enable content filters: For YouTube Kids, tap "Parental Controls" in the app settings. Set age-appropriate filters (e.g., "Preschool" or "School Age").
- Set time limits: In Netflix or Disney+, use the "Screen Time" settings to limit daily viewing. For example, 30 minutes for weekdays, 60 minutes on weekends.
- Test the setup: Have your child log in to their profile. Watch a few minutes together to ensure only age-appropriate shows appear.
- Update regularly: Check settings every 3 months. As kids grow, adjust filters and time limits to match their developmental stage.
Pro tip: Use a password manager to store PINs securely. Never write them on sticky notes near the TV. Apps like LastPassA secure password manager that stores login details for streaming services and other accounts. keep PINs safe while making them easy to access when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are free educational streaming services safe?
Yes, services like PBS Kids and Khan Academy Kids are completely ad-free and pre-screened for safety. They’re run by trusted organizations like public broadcasters and education nonprofits. However, always check settings-even free apps sometimes have user-uploaded content. For YouTube Kids, enable "Supervised" mode to block unvetted videos.
How do I stop my child from accessing adult content?
Use platform-specific features: Netflix and Disney+ let you set PIN-protected profiles. For Amazon Fire tablets, enable "FreeTime" to lock apps to child-friendly content. Always disable "Autoplay" to prevent accidental jumps to inappropriate shows. If your child finds a way around controls, reset PINs immediately and check for software updates-platforms often patch security gaps.
What’s the best app for teaching math to kindergarteners?
Khan Academy Kids is the top choice. It uses games and stories to teach counting, shapes, and basic addition. Unlike flashcards, it adapts to each child’s pace. Parents in New Zealand report 80% improvement in math confidence after 4 weeks of daily use. For older kids, Prodigy MathA game-based math platform that adapts to a child’s skill level and curriculum. offers more advanced lessons.
Can I use these services without internet?
Most platforms require internet for streaming, but some offer offline downloads. Netflix and Disney+ let you download shows to tablets or phones. For example, download "Bluey" episodes before a road trip. Khan Academy Kids works offline for downloaded activities. Avoid YouTube Kids for offline use-it requires constant internet connection for safety checks.
How do I know if a show is truly educational?
Look for shows developed with educators. PBS Kids content is vetted by teachers and child psychologists. Netflix’s "Educational" filter highlights shows with learning goals, like "Odd Squad" (math) or "Wild Kratts" (science). Avoid shows that only have "educational" in the title without clear learning objectives. Real test: Watch a 5-minute clip. If your child asks questions or repeats facts afterward, it’s working.
