18 TV Shows for Toddlers Babylist Parents Actually Recommend

Screens are kind of unavoidable when you have a toddler—whether it’s a quick episode while you make dinner, a FaceTime with grandparents or 15 quiet minutes so you can drink your coffee while it’s still warm. It might be ideal for them to spend every waking hour stacking blocks or flipping through board books, but in reality? Sometimes TV is part of the mix.

It’s definitely a reality for Babylist parents; when we polled them about their toddlers’ favorite shows, one thing was clear: Bluey is the runaway favorite. Nearly 38 percent of parents mentioned it in some form—by far the biggest standout. Sesame Street, Ms. Rachel and Daniel Tiger followed behind, along with plenty of love for gentler picks like Puffin Rock, Trash Truck, Tumble Leaf and Stillwater.

We also noticed a strong throwback trend. Many millennial parents are reaching back to the shows they grew up with in the ’90s and early 2000s—Little Bear, Franklin, Bear in the Big Blue House and the original Blues Clues. Others are going even further back, reintroducing classics like Reading Rainbow (’80s and ’90s) and Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, which first aired in the late ’60s and ran for decades.

It’s not just nostalgia for nostalgia’s sake. From the responses, families seem drawn to shows that feel calmer and more story-driven—programming that’s easy for toddlers to follow and easy for adults to sit through, too.

Here are the top TV shows Babylist parents recommend, followed by some tips for setting healthy, realistic boundaries that work for your family.

Shows Parents (and Toddlers) Are Obsessed With

These are the clear front-runners from our poll—the ones families are watching on repeat.

🐶 Bluey

Bluey wasn’t just popular in our poll—it dominated. Nearly 38 percent of respondents mentioned it in some form, making it the clear standout. It’s also one of the rare toddler shows adults genuinely enjoy watching too(🙋🏽‍♀️)—which matters when you’ve seen the same episode for the 14th time.

Bluey, named for its adorable main character, showcases a Blue Heeler puppy and her family. Follow Bluey and her little sister, Bingo, as they engage in simple, imaginative play learning valuable life lessons and building social-emotional skills through their games. Each episode explores themes like friendship, problem-solving and empathy. Episodes are short and sweet and many parents report they’re huge fans of Bluey as well! Bluey’s parents—Chili and Bandit—model imaginative play, emotional intelligence and involved parenting in a way that feels relatable. Episodes are short (around seven minutes) which makes it easier to say “just one more” and actually mean it.

• Where to watch: Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Prime, Youtube TV

• Episode length: ~7 minutes

🧡 Sesame Street

A classic for a reason, Babylist parents Sesame Street showed up again and again in our responses, one writing, “‘90s and early 2000s Sesame Street!”

It’s an iconic television show that's been both entertaining and educating viewers for generations. This series features a diverse cast of characters, including Big Bird, Elmo and Cookie Monster, who embark on fun-filled adventures in the colorful neighborhood of Sesame Street. The show's characters navigate valuable social-emotional lessons as well as introduce letters, numbers, shapes and so much more. Episodes tend to be around 30 minutes but are generally segmented, making it easy for parents to find stopping points when their toddler has reached their screen-time limit.

• Where to watch: PBS Kids (free), Amazon Prime, Netflix

• Episode length: ~30 minutes

🎶 Ms. Rachel

If you spend any time around other parents or on social media, then you've most likely heard of Ms. Rachel. With different videos for younger toddlers and preschool-aged children, her fun and interactive songs introduce little ones to important concepts like colors, shapes and numbers in an enjoyable way. Episodes tend to be a bit long, but contain multiple segments so you can divide the episodes into a more developmentally appropriate length.

Parents in our poll mentioned how helpful her videos are for language development. One shared that their family has learned a lot of sign language and communication strategies from her. The direct-to-camera style and repetition may feel different from traditional shows, but for many families, it’s a go-to.

• Where to watch: Youtube, Netflix

• Episode length: ~30-60 minutes

🐯 Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood

With its gentle pacing and repeatable songs, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood helps toddlers practice skills like patience, sharing and naming big feelings. Each episode focuses on a relatable challenge—waiting their turn, trying something new, handling disappointment—and gives families simple language they can use in real life.

It’s structured, calm and intentionally slower than many modern kids’ shows, which is exactly why many parents appreciate it.

• Where to watch: PBS Kids, Prime Video, Apple TV, Hulu

• Episode length: ~11 minutes

Gentle, Low-Stimulation Favorites

While Bluey and Sesame Street topped the charts, many parents also shared their go-to shows for winding down—series that feel noticeably calmer than the average toddler program.

🐸 Frog & Toad

One parent in our poll told us they don’t currently allow screen time for their five-month-old but are looking forward to watching Frog & Toad together down the line.

Based on Arnold Lobel’s beloved books (the ones you might remember from your own childhood), the series follows best friends Frog and Toad through small, everyday adventures like waiting for mail, baking cookies and solving simple misunderstandings. The storylines are gentle, dialogue-driven and there’s no frantic pacing or flashy animation. Instead, it leans into patience and the kind of friendship that models emotional intelligence without announcing that it’s doing so. It’s the kind of show that feels more like storytime than traditional TV.

• Where to watch: Apple TV+

• Episode length: ~22 minutes

🐧 Puffin Rock

Puffin Rock came up frequently among parents seeking calmer options. With soft animation, nature-centered storytelling and slower pacing, it feels noticeably quieter than many modern kids’ shows. It’s often described as a good wind-down option—something that doesn’t leave toddlers bouncing off the couch afterward. 

The show revolves around the puffin siblings, Oona and Baba, and toddlers can watch as they explore their beautiful island home and encounter various adventures. Along the way, they learn important themes like friendship, problem-solving and empathy. It's a less stimulating show thanks to its slower pace and softer color palette. 

• Where to watch: Netflix

• Episode length: 7 minutes

🚛 Trash Truck

Trash Truck was another highly recommended show. This series follows the adventures of a little boy named Hank and his best friend, Trash Truck, a big, friendly garbage truck who comes to life. Each episode contains messages about the importance of kindness and helping others to the joy of sharing and making new friends. The show also introduces toddlers to concepts like recycling and sustainability in an age-appropriate way. 

• Where to watch: Netflix

• Episode length: 15 minutes

🍃 Tumble Leaf

Tumble Leaf stands out for its focus on curiosity and problem-solving. The stop-motion animation gives it a textured, almost handmade feel, and each episode centers around exploration and figuring things out.

The story follows Fig the fox and his friends as they discover a new “finding place” object in each episode (a marble, a shadow, a bubble) and then experiment with what it can do. The pacing is deliberate, giving toddlers time to watch, think and make connections alongside the characters. It’s slower and quieter than many high-energy kids’ shows (no shade to those pups!), and the gentle rhythm makes it a solid choice for winding down rather than revving up.

• Where to watch: Amazon Prime

• Episode length: ~24 minutes

 🐼 Stillwater

Stillwater earned mentions for its calm tone and mindfulness themes. The series follows three siblings and their wise panda neighbor, Stillwater, who helps them navigate everyday kid dilemmas like feeling left out, getting frustrated or worrying about mistakes.

The storytelling is quiet and reflective, often centered around working through feelings or small conflicts in thoughtful ways. It introduces mindfulness concepts naturally, without feeling finger-waggy.

Visually and emotionally, it’s understated. No rapid scene changes or loud sound effects—just gentle storytelling that invites kids (and adults) to slow down a bit. 

• Where to watch: Apple TV+

• Episode length: ~24 minutes

Millennial Nostalgia Is Back

Turns out, many millennial parents are reaching back to the ’90s and early 2000s for the shows they grew up with. Compared to some of today’s faster, flashier programming, these older series often feel slower, simpler and more story-driven.

🐻 Little Bear

Little Bear made multiple appearances in the nostalgia category. Parents who grew up with it are now sharing it with their own toddlers, often drawn to its watercolor-style animation and unhurried storytelling.

Each episode follows Little Bear through small, imaginative adventures—visiting friends, solving tiny problems and playing pretend. The pacing is gentle and the tone is steady; compared to many modern kids’ shows, it feels quiet, in a good way.

• Where to watch: Paramount+, Amazon Prime

• Episode length: ~24 minutes

💙 Bear in the Big Blue House

With its direct-to-camera conversations and cozy, predictable structure, Bear in the Big Blue House feels more like a warm check-in than a traditional show.

Bear talks through everyday topics—bedtime routines, feelings, friendship—with songs and repetition that toddlers tend to latch onto. The format is calm and consistent, which many parents say makes it feel safe and comforting. It’s comfort viewing for toddlers and adults alike.

• Where to watch: Disney+

• Episode length: ~25 minutes

🛋️ Big Comfy Couch

For many parents, The Big Comfy Couch is pure childhood nostalgia. Its imaginative storytelling and familiar routines (including the iconic clock stretch) give each episode a predictable rhythm.

It also has a slower pace and the conflicts are simple, often centered around friendship or problem-solving. Compared to today’s faster, flashier toddler programming, it feels almost meditative.

• Where to watch: Amazon Prime

• Episode length: ~25 minutes

❤️ Clifford

Who doesn’t remember the big red dog? “We watch Clifford! It’s nostalgic for us as we are young parents,” one parent wrote in our poll.

The series blends straightforward storytelling with gentle lessons about kindness, responsibility and community. Storylines are easy to follow, making it a good fit for toddlers who are starting to engage with longer episodes but don’t need a lot of sensory input to stay interested.

• Where to watch: PBS Kids, Amazon Prime

• Episode length: ~22 minutes

🐢 Franklin

Franklin surfaced as another throwback favorite. Each episode centers around a clear social or emotional lesson, like trying something new or working through disappointment, but the tone stays steady and calm. Like many late ’90s and early 2000s animated series, it moves at a slower clip than a lot of current programming. For some families, that pacing is exactly the appeal.

• Where to watch: Amazon Prime, Roku Channel, Apple TV+

• Episode length: ~22 minutes

🐾 Blues Clues

The original Blues Clues—especially the Steve era—showed up repeatedly in our poll. Its interactive format invites kids to pause, think and answer questions out loud, creating participation without sensory overload. The repetition, clear structure and predictable clues make it engaging without feeling chaotic. It’s a show many parents remember fondly, and one that still holds up for today’s toddlers.

• Where to watch: Paramount+, Amazon Prime

• Episode length: ~25 minutes

🌈 Reading Rainbow

This classic also appeared as a show parents are excited to share as their toddlers grow. Reading Rainbow is a timeless children's show that combines the joy of storytelling with the excitement of exploration. Each episode focuses on a different book, bringing the pages to life with engaging animations and vibrant illustrations. It also explores important themes like friendship, diversity, and problem-solving while introducing toddlers to various cultures, historical figures and science concepts. 

• Where to watch: PBS Kids channel on Amazon Prime

• Episode length: 28 minutes

👟 Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood

Another classic show that's captivated viewers for generations—you won't find many characters as welcoming and warm as Mr. Rogers. Through each episode, toddlers can learn about important themes such as empathy, kindness and acceptance. Fred Rogers takes them on field trips to interesting places, introduces them to fascinating people and explores various concepts that nurture their emotional and cognitive development. 

• Where to watch: PBS Kids (free), PBS Kids channel on Amazon Prime

• Episode length: 30 minutes

🚌 Magic School Bus

Magic School Bus rounded out the nostalgia picks. “This classic is streamable on YouTube, and has become part of our Saturday morning routine together,” one Babylist parent wrote in our poll.  It may be more appropriate for slightly older kids, but it reflects the same pattern we saw throughout the poll—parents looking for content that balances entertainment with meaningful learning.

• Where to watch: Peacock, Amazon Prime, Netflix

• Episode length: ~25 minutes

Screen Time Guidelines for Toddlers

How much screen time is okay for toddlers? The honest answer: it depends.

While there’s no one-size-fits-all formula, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) offers age-based guidance to help families make informed choices. The big takeaway isn’t just about minutes logged, it’s about what your child is watching and how it fits into their day.

For babies under 18 months, the AAP recommends avoiding screen time, with the exception of video chatting with loved ones. After 18 months, the focus shifts from avoiding screens to being thoughtful about them—choosing high-quality programming and, when you can, watching together so you can talk about what’s happening on screen.

It can also help to notice how your toddler responds. Do they seem calm afterward? Overstimulated? Totally unbothered? Every kid is different, and those cues can tell you a lot.

And, as with most things in parenting, balance matters. Screen time may work best when it’s just one part of a full day that also includes free play, books, outdoor time and real-world connection.

Here’s how the AAP generally breaks it down:

• Under 18 months: Avoid screen time when possible, aside from video chats with family and friends.

• 18–24 months: If you’re going to introduce TV, aim for high-quality, educational content and try to watch it together when you can.

• 2–5 years: About one hour per day of high-quality programming is a reasonable guideline. Watching together can help you answer questions and connect what they’re seeing to real life.

Remember: these are guidelines. Some days will look different than others, and that’s okay. It’s more about being intentional about what works for your family.

How to Make the Most of Screen Time

Children don’t need screens to learn—hands-on exploration and free play are best for supporting physical and cognitive development. That said, with high-quality programming and intentional co-viewing, TV can be a more meaningful experience. It can also be a helpful tool when you need a breather.

Here are a few ways to make screen time more beneficial:

Set time limits

Screen time shouldn’t replace outdoor play, reading or interaction. Look for shorter episodes to stay mindful of how long your child has been watching. For older toddlers, a timer can help signal when it’s time to move on. If transitions are consistently difficult, it may be a sign to scale back.

Vet your child’s shows

 It’s a good idea to do a little research and look into the shows your toddler is watching to make sure they’re appropriate. Common Sense Media has super helpful toddler tv show guides with ratings and reviews for virtually any TV show or movie you can think of.  

Choose less stimulating shows 

TV aimed at young children can be busy, noisy and fast-paced. Dr. Supreet Mann, PhD Director of Research at Common Sense Media, says to “Start out slow with toddler-targeted shows that are gentle, brief, high quality and age-appropriate.”

Look for slower pacing, muted color palettes and storylines that don’t rely on constant noise or quick cuts (like the shows on this list!).

Pay attention to themes and messages 

Toddlers absorb what they see. Choose shows that align with your child’s interests and support skills like language development, problem-solving and creativity. Make sure content is age-appropriate and developmentally suited to where your child is right now.

Co-view with your toddler 

Watching TV together has real benefits. Asking questions and talking about what’s happening can help your child apply lessons to real life—whether that’s practicing empathy or reinforcing educational concepts.

By creating a well-rounded schedule and setting some boundaries, you'll be able to strike a healthy balance between screen time and other activities that support your toddler's development.