Are you looking for educational TV shows for your child that aligns with Montessori? In this article, I’ve listed a few that have also been well-recommended by other Montessori moms. I found that there is not one that meet ALL the criteria ALL the time, but here are the ones that we love.
Note that some of these will feature animated animals who serve as the shows’ main characters. Some episodes that teach language may not align with how Montessori teaches it. Nevertheless, they have great features that align with Montessori which I’ve highlighted below.
Quality TV Programs for Young Children
Puffin Rock
Puffin Rock is an animated series about a young puffin named Oona and her brother Baba. The show takes place on a beautiful island off the coast of Ireland, where Oona and Baba explore in every episode and deal with different situations.
The show promotes environmentalism and empathy by showcasing the natural world and the animals that inhabit it. Each episode is centered around a new animal and their habitat, providing a great opportunity for children to learn about different species and their behaviors.
Additionally, the show promotes curiosity and exploration as Oona and Baba discover something new in every episode. Overall, Puffin Rock teaches children about the natural world in a gentle and engaging way that aligns with Montessori teaching principles.
Recommended for children ages 2-5 years old.
Where to watch: Netflix
Trash Truck
“Trash Truck” is an animated series that follows the adventures of a young boy named Hank and his best friend, a giant trash truck. The show is not only entertaining but also educational, as it promotes environmentalism and encourages children to think about the impact of their actions on the world around them.
Throughout the series, Hank and Trash Truck explore their community and learn about the importance of recycling, reusing, and reducing waste. They also learn about the environmental impact of littering and the importance of keeping their community clean.
The show is perfect for young children who are just beginning to learn about the environment and their role in protecting it. It’s not overwhelming or too complex, but rather presents simple and easy-to-understand concepts in a fun and engaging way.
In addition to promoting environmentalism, “Trash Truck” also teaches valuable lessons about friendship and teamwork. Hank and Trash Truck work together to solve problems and help their community, demonstrating the importance of cooperation and collaboration.
Recommended for children ages 2-5 years old.
Where to watch: Netflix
Our Planet
Our Planet is a Netflix documentary series narrated by Sir David Attenborough. It explores the diversity of the natural world and the challenges that it faces in the modern era. The series takes viewers on a journey to various habitats around the world, including jungles, deserts, and oceans, showcasing the beauty of the planet and the importance of preserving it.
The show is an excellent option for parents who want their children to learn about the environment and the beauty of it. It can help foster a love and appreciation for the natural world in young viewers. The series is also visually stunning, with breathtaking cinematography and a powerful soundtrack that complements the visual imagery.
There are other nature docuseries that are great for your animal-loving children, such as Wild Babies and Penguin Town, to give them a glimpse of the natural world in different parts of the world.
Recommended for children ages 3 and up.
Where to watch: Netflix | Youtube
Old Enough
“Old Enough” is a Japanese show on Netflix that follows children (from age 2) as they are given the freedom to complete tasks and run errands on their own. The show aims to promote independence and self-reliance in children, as well as build their confidence and decision-making abilities, which are important values in Japanese culture.
In Japan, children are taught from a young age to be independent and self-sufficient. They are encouraged to take on responsibilities and to make decisions on their own. “Old Enough” provides a glimpse into this cultural aspect by showcasing how young Japanese children can develop valuable life skills by being given the chance to take on tasks and responsibilities.
Overall, “Old Enough” is a great show for parents who want their children to be inspired to take on new challenges and learn important life skills while also providing a cultural perspective on the values of independence and self-reliance in Japan.
Recommended for children ages 3 and up.
Where to watch: Netflix
Tumble Leaf
“Tumble Leaf” is an animated series on Amazon Prime that follows the adventures of a blue fox named Fig and his best friend, a caterpillar named Stick. The show is designed to encourage exploration and curiosity in young children, as Fig and Stick discover new objects and concepts in every episode.
The show is visually stunning, with vivid colors and intricate details that will capture the attention of young viewers. It’s also gentle and calming, with a soothing soundtrack that complements the visuals. The show’s pacing is slow and deliberate, allowing children to fully absorb and appreciate each new discovery.
In addition to promoting exploration and curiosity, “Tumble Leaf” also teaches valuable lessons about problem-solving and creativity. Fig and Stick often encounter obstacles on their adventures, but they use their creativity and resourcefulness to find solutions.
Recommended for children ages 2-5 years old.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime
Julie’s Greenroom
“Julie’s Greenroom” is a Netflix original series that focuses on the performing arts. The show follows Julie Andrews as she teaches a group of puppet friends about different aspects of the arts, such as singing, dancing, and acting. Each episode features a guest star from the performing arts world, such as Idina Menzel, Alec Baldwin, and Josh Groban.
The show is a great way to introduce young children to the world of performing arts and to encourage their creativity and imagination. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration and teamwork, as Julie and her puppet friends work together to create a performance at the end of each episode.
In addition to promoting the arts, “Julie’s Greenroom” also features valuable lessons about friendship and inclusivity. The puppet characters come from a diverse range of backgrounds and abilities, and they learn to appreciate each other’s differences and work together as a team.
Overall, “Julie’s Greenroom” is an excellent choice for parents who want their children to be exposed to the performing arts and to learn important values such as teamwork and inclusivity. It’s a fun and engaging show that will inspire creativity and imagination in young viewers.
Recommended for children ages 3-6 years old.
Where to watch: Netflix | Amazon Prime
Peg + Cat
“Peg + Cat” is an animated series on PBS that follows the adventures of a young girl named Peg and her cat. The show is designed to teach young children about math concepts such as counting, measurement, and geometry in a fun and engaging way.
Each episode features Peg and Cat solving a math problem, often with the help of their friends. The show presents math concepts in a relatable and easy-to-understand way, making it a great tool for parents who want to introduce their children to math concepts at an early age.
In addition to promoting math skills, “Peg + Cat” also teaches valuable lessons about problem-solving and perseverance. Peg and Cat often encounter obstacles on their adventures, but they never give up and always find a way to solve the problem.
Recommended for children ages 3-5 years old.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime | YouTube
Mister Roger’s Neighborhood
“Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” is a classic children’s show that aired from 1968 to 2001. Hosted by Fred Rogers, the show was designed to teach young children about important life skills such as empathy, kindness, and self-esteem.
The show features Rogers interacting with puppet characters, as well as real-life guests such as musicians and artists. Each episode focuses on a different theme, such as making friends, dealing with emotions, or trying new things.
“Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” is a great choice for parents who want their children to learn important social and emotional skills while also being entertained. It can help young children develop empathy and learn how to manage their emotions in a healthy way.
It’s gentle, calming, and features simple and easy-to-understand concepts that are perfect for young viewers. It is a timeless classic that can help young children develop important life skills that will serve them well throughout their lives.
Recommended for children ages 2-5 years old.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime
Blue’s Clues and You
“Blue’s Clues and You” is a reboot of the classic children’s show “Blue’s Clues.” The show follows the adventures of Blue, a blue-spotted puppy, and her owner Josh as they solve puzzles and play games with the help of the viewers at home.
The show is designed to be interactive, with Josh frequently pausing to ask the viewers questions and encourage them to participate in the activities on screen. This makes it a great tool for parents who want to engage their children in an interactive and educational TV experience.
In addition to promoting problem-solving and critical thinking skills, “Blue’s Clues and You” also teaches valuable lessons about social and emotional development. Each episode features a “Blue’s Clues” game, where Josh and the viewers must identify the clues and solve the puzzle to figure out what Blue wants to do that day. This encourages children to think creatively and work together to achieve a common goal.
Overall, “Blue’s Clues and You” is fun and engaging show that will inspire creativity and problem-solving skills in young viewers while also promoting important social and emotional development.
Recommended for children ages 2-5 years old.
Where to watch: Netflix
Conclusion
We have listed educational TV shows that promote key values, such as problem-solving, creativity, and environmentalism, aligning with Montessori principles. While these can supplement hands-on learning, it should not replace it. By choosing appropriate programs aligned with your family values, parents can limit screen time and provide well-rounded development.
It’s also important for parents to preview or choose which shows your children are consuming. If you want to check if the shows you’re watching are Montessori friendly, then read here to know how to screen the shows you let them watch for their screen time.
