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Team Umizoomi
Ages 3-6, Nickelodeon, ScienceWhat’s Smart About It: A great preschool aged show that tackles math skills with color, energy and characters that will keep your kids engaged. From the folks who brought you Blue’s Clues, parents now have a kid’s show that goes beyond simple counting and provides a format that encourages kids to work through questions themselves.
Little Einsteins
Ages 3-6, Arts and Reading, Disney, Recommended by Common Sense MediaWhat’s Smart About It: Four precocious preschool friends make discoveries, work as a team and use their special musical talents. Each episode has a mission and journey of discovery that incorporates a celebrated piece of classical music and a renowned work of art or world culture.
American Experience
Ages 9-11, History, PBS, Recommended by Common Sense MediaWhat’s Smart About It: Do your kids need a history refresher but don’t want to watch some “boring” documentary? PBS put together an excellent docu-series that combines reenactments, historical footage and commentary to paint America’s past with vibrant colors.
Dr. King – Documentary
Ages 6-9, Ages 9-11, Good Ol' Values, HistoryWhat’s Smart About It: Host Tom Brokaw brings to life the heroic story of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and displays the leader’s remarkable journey for civil rights and racial integration
Rachael’s Vacation
Ages 9-11, Recommended by Parents' Choice Foundation, Safe and FunWhat’s Smart About It: Do you have a child that’s interested in international travel and fine dinning? Follow celeb chef Rachael Ray as she explores culinary histories, cultures and cuisine from around the world.
Grossology
Ages 6-9, Ages 9-11, Nickelodeon, Recommended by KIDS FIRST!, Safe and FunWhat’s Smart About It: Follow along as Ty and Abby fight invading bacteria, viruses and other nasty things on a battlefield that just happens to be in someones body…Gross! The duo usesscience and a knowledge of biology to beat back the invaders.
The Upside Down Show
Ages 3-6, Good Ol' Values, Nickelodeon, Recommended by Common Sense Media, Safe and FunWhat’s Smart About It: Two brothers that don’t get out much (literally) take preschoolers on adventures in every episode in this live action show. There are lessons taught such as cooperation, meeting friends and thinking about the world around them.
Charlie & Lola
Ages 3-6, Disney, Good Ol' Values, Recommended by Common Sense Media, Safe and FunWhat’s Smart About It: Adorable British siblings are having fun learning about new foods, getting a haircut and losing a tooth. The show is simple, and kind, the characters are articulate and provide a great example for kids.
DogTown
Ages 6-9, Ages 9-11, Good Ol' Values, National Geographic, Recommended by Parents' Choice FoundationWhat’s Smart About It: More than just dogs are saved here at America’s largest no kill animal shelter. Thanks to the efforts of the volunteer staff many of these animals get to find new loving homes. Some episodes show sick animals that might upset the younger viewers, but overall this show was made for young ones that would like to learn more about animal care.
Get Fresh With Sara Snow
Ages 9-11, Discovery, Good Ol' Values, Recommended by Parents Television Council, Safe and Fun, ScienceWhat’s Smart About It: Get fresh and green with Sara as she shows people that the benefits of being organic can help your health, the environment and even your pocketbook. Sensible alternatives and practical tips are offered by this green believer as she guides people and companies improve their lifestyles and business practices.
