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Looking for TV shows that won’t have your kids bouncing off the walls like they’ve eaten a dozen sugar donuts? You’ve come to the right place! We’ve scoured the internet and done the research to bring you the top low-stimulating kids shows.
We totally get it, as much as we adore watching our little ones frolic in the great outdoors (check out our top picks for parks around Hong Kong), or engaging their creative little minds with DIY crafts and storybooks, sometimes we just need a moment. A moment to breathe, to catch up on that ever-growing pile of laundry, to tackle some work, or simply to savour a hot cup of coffee (yes, they’re supposed to be hot!). Enter that somewhat controversial, yet often lifesaving two words – screen time.
If you’re anything like us, you’ve probably found yourself mindlessly flicking to whatever programmes appear first (Cocomelon, Blippi or Vlad And Niki, we’re looking at you) without giving a second thought to the impact it might have on your kiddos’ moods or sensory processing. And you’re definitely not alone. If you’ve ever wondered what makes a show over-stimulating for your little ones, here are a few things to keep an eye out for:
- Bright, high contrasting colours
- Frequent scene changes
- Overuse of sounds and repetitive songs
- Characters that talk and move at a rapid pace
Sounds like a description of most kids’ shows, right? But don’t fret, we’ve got you covered. You don’t have to spend hours trawling through the internet and reading endless reviews to find TV shows that are low-stimulating, educational, and pack in some valuable life lessons. We’ve done the hard work for you!
Read More: Sassy Mama’s Favourite Childhood Movies To Share With Your Kids
Llama Llama
Llama Llama is a cuddle-worthy series that will teach your young ones about family, friendship and learning new things. Our adventurous protagonist, Llama – alongside best buddies Nelly Gnu, Luna Giraffe, and Euclid Sheep – navigates through everyday challenges. From grappling with changes to handling school bullies, Llama learns to deal with it all with a little help from Mama Llama.
Where to watch: Netflix
Suitable for: Ages 3 and up
Bluey
From Down Under, we bring you Bluey, a sweet show about a puppy with a huge imagination and a joy for life. The cast is all dogs, featuring many different breeds as Bluey’s family and friends. Each episode revolves around Bluey and her sister indulging in creative playtimes with their parents or pals, where they learn important life skills like taking turns and being patient. We love that Bluey’s mum and dad are super involved, making time for their daughters even after work. This sharply written series is a fun pick to watch along with your kiddos.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime And Apple TV+
Suitable for: Ages 3 and up
Elinor Wonders Why
This show emphasises the importance of not giving up when ideas don’t pan out. It’s packed with interesting facts about frogs and butterflies, and the adult characters are all strong female figures, including a ranger and an inventor who speaks both Spanish and English.
Where to watch: Apple TV+
Suitable for: Ages 3 and up
Read More: Beyond “Beautiful” – 3 Practical Ways To Start Meaningful Conversations About Body Image
Stella and Sam
Join big sister Stella and little brother Sam on their sweet, imaginative adventures in their own backyard. As they set off on their escapades, they learn to care for each other and make friends along the way. It’s a charming little show that your toddlers will love!
Where to watch: Amazon Prime And Apple TV+
Suitable for: Ages 2 and up
Guess How Much I Love You
The first television adaptation of the classic picture book, this series follows the adventures of Little Nutbrown Hare and his father, Big Nutbrown Hare, as they try to measure how much they love each other. This heartwarming series is a must-watch for your little ones.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime And Apple TV+
Suitable for: Ages 3 and up
Bug Diaries
Got a little bug enthusiast at home? Bug Diaries is just the show for them! Follow the adventures of best friends Fly, Spide, and Worm as they explore and learn about themselves and their fellow bugs. Through their play and school time, they learn to appreciate their individual qualities and lean on each other to overcome personal challenges. They also keep diaries to record their experiences and feelings, helping them process their feelings and celebrate their small victories.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime
Suitable for: Ages 5 and up
Read More: 7 Messy Play Ideas – Get Your Hands Dirty With Sensory Play
Trash Truck
We absolutely adore Trash Truck for its promotion of kindness, creative play and prosocial skills. Join six-year-old Hank and his best pal, a giant trash truck, as they embark on fantastical adventures with their animal friends.
Where to watch: Netflix
Suitable for: Ages 2 and up
The Snowy Day
In The Snowy Day, a young boy named Peter embarks on a snowy walk to his grandmother’s home to escort her – and her traditional macaroni-and-cheese dish – back to his house for a Christmas Eve party. Along the way, he meets neighbours, makes new friends, and plays in the snow, until a mishap threatens to ruin the day. As Peter reconsiders the meaning of Christmas, he realises that it’s the people around you who make the holiday season special.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime And Apple TV+
Suitable for: Ages 4 and up
If You Give A Mouse A Cookie
In If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, Mouse and his favourite human, Oliver, embark on a shopping trip when they realise they’re out of applesauce. This seemingly simple errand soon turns into an unexpected adventure filled with a long shopping list, runaway carts and one very confused marching band.
Where to watch: Apple TV+
Suitable for: Ages 3 and up
Read More: The Family Hack You Need To Keep Your Kids Safe
Slumberkins
Based on the leading children’s emotional learning brand Slumberkins, this series brings to life characters from the beloved books. It aims to empower the emotional wellness of children through supportive storytelling.
Where to watch: Apple TV+
Suitable for: Ages 2 and up
