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15 kids’ TV shows parents secretly love just as much as their kids – did your favourites make the cut?
From nostalgic classics to hilarious modern hits, we asked 150 MadeForMums parents which kids’ TV shows they genuinely enjoy watching too — and the results are both heart-warming and hilarious. How many have you watched and do you agree with their picks?
Published: April 2, 2026 at 5:03 PM
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Let’s be honest: for every brightly coloured, high-pitched kids’ show that makes you want to hide behind the sofa, there’s another that you grudgingly have to admit is really brilliant. The kind you don’t just tolerate when the kids are watching it, but the kind you happily watch even after your child has wandered off in search of their next snack.
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To help you find the holy grail of kids TV shows that the whole family can enjoy we asked 150 MadeForMums Club parents to spill: which kids’ TV shows, past or present, do you secretly love watching — and why?
Unsurprisingly, one modern classic absolutely dominated (a whopping 75% of parents said it’s their favourite). But the suggestions also included a whole load of nostalgia picks that'll take you straight back to your own childhood as well as some brilliant new shows you might not have heard of yet.
Here are the TV shows parents genuinely adore — complete with their reasons why, that proves kids’ TV can be comedy, comfort and even parenting inspo.
The 15 kids’ TV shows parents secretly love just as much as their children
1. Bluey
© Ludo Studio
The number one show won't come as any surprise with 75% of parents asked saying it’s their favourite! It seems parents cannot get enough of this Aussie family of blue heelers — and honestly, we feel the same. Warm, funny, surprisingly emotional and genuinely helpful for parenting without being condescending, Bluey is the rare kids’ show adults eagerly binge too.
What parents say:
“If anyone says anything other than Bluey then I’m confused. It is the best kids TV show.” – Katie Faith
“It’s relatable, funny and covers everything from infertility to friendships — I often watch it alone!” – Emma Rodgers
“Some episodes really hit home. It’s for adults AND kids.” – Chloé Ritchie
Where to watch: BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime and Apple TV
2. The Julia Donaldson animated films
©Magic Light Pictures Ltd/BBC
The BBC adaptations of The Gruffalo, Room on the Broom, Stick Man etc. were also top of our parents' TV loves list. It's a festive highlight hearing which of Julia Donaldson's popular books is the next Christmas Day adaptation and the gentle pacing, beautiful animation and cosy storytelling mean parents rate these as top-tier calm-time viewing year-round.
What parents say:
“They’re sweet, calm and I learn loads.” – Isabella Phillips
“I get more excited than the kids when a new one comes out!” – Karen Hughes
Where to watch: BBC iPlayer
3. Hey Duggee
A pre-school classic with heaps of jokes you only notice as an adult. Parents love the wholesome vibes, the visual humour and of course, the all-important Duggee Hug.
What parents say:
“There are a few jokes in there for adults — makes it an easy watch.” – Rebecca Rumble
“It’s hilarious and quirky.” – Grace Emma
Where to watch: BBC iPlayer
4. The Wiggles
Part nostalgia trip, part pure joy. Whether it’s the original cast or the newer Wiggles, parents are obsessed — many are even happy to go to the live shows.
What parents say:
“We went to see them live and I honestly enjoyed it more than the kids!” – Shauni Spafford
“Not sure who’s more excited to see them today… me or my daughter.” – Leanne Gibson
Where to watch: Netflix and Prime Video
5. Come Outside
A soothing, nostalgic favourite with that iconic spotty aeroplane. Parents love rewatching it and sharing a slice of their own childhood.
What parents say:
“It holds such fantastic nostalgic memories — so calming too!” – Rhiannon Ruckledge
Where to watch: YouTube and CBeebies
6. Puffin Rock
©Cartoon Saloon/ Dog Ears/ BBC
Calm, gentle and beautifully narrated, this is a top pick for families who want low-stimulation viewing that still has charm.
What parents say:
“Most chill theme tune ever — and who doesn’t love Chris O’Dowd?” – Hannah Kennedy-Green
Where to watch: BBC iPlayer
7. Paddington (classic or modern)
Wholesome, sweet and with a sprinkle of mischief, Paddington appeals to all generations and the new films starring Hugh Bonneville, new TV episodes and West End musical mean there's plenty of fresh material for Paddington lovers young and old.
What parents say:
“Our top one to watch together — it’s just lovely.” – Jemma Cook
Where to watch: Disney+, Channel 5, Netflix, ITVX
8. Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom
Silly, clever and packed with dry jokes parents adore. Also: Nanny Plum is a comedic icon.
What parents say:
“Nanny Plum is hilarious — I love her!” – Rebecca Holley
Where to watch: YouTube, Channel 5 and Netflix
9. Fireman Sam, Postman Pat & other ‘90s classics
Old-school, slower-paced versions of these shows give parents all the nostalgia vibes — and kids love them too.
What parents say:
“They feel less over-stimulating than modern versions — and they remind me of my childhood.” – Hannah Gibbons
"I ask my son whether he wants to watch "Daddy's Sam" or "his Sam" and he always chooses my 90s version, which I love! – Reid Whaley
Where to watch: YouTube, BBC iPlayer
10. Pokémon (original series)
Whether you grew up trading cards or battling on Game Boy, parents are loving the chance to rewatch with the next generation.
What parents say:
“My two love OG Pokémon and I don’t mind watching — I watched it as a kid too!” – Siobhan Gunson
Where to watch: Netflix
11. Unicorn Academy
©Netflix/ Spinmaster
Surprisingly addictive for adults, especially those who grew up loving magical girl shows or fantasy cartoons.
What parents say: Netflix
“I absolutely love watching it — it’s like reliving my youth!” – Kealy Knights
Where to watch: Netflix
12. Mr Bean
Kids lose it over the physical comedy, and parents? They’re just thrilled to rediscover how funny it still is.
What parents say:
“We all laugh away at it — it's so good.” – Catrina Mullen
Where to watch: ITVX, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video
13. Magic School Bus
One for the full nostalgia feels — and a genuinely brilliant educational show that still holds up.
What parents say:
“It was part of my childhood, and now my little girl loves it too!” – Charlotte Rayner-Martin
Where to watch: Netflix
14. Teletubbies
Yes… this one might be a surprise but the Teletubbies made the list. Turns out some parents find them strangely comforting!
What parents say:
“My childhood fave!” – Nazli Tunay
Where to watch: BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video
15. Peppa Pig
©Peppa Pig
Love her or hate her, Peppa definitely has fans — especially adults who enjoy the dry humour of Daddy Pig.
What parents say:
“I actually like Peppa Pig — Daddy Pig is funny!” – Rachael Maguire
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Where to watch: BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Netflix and official YouTube channel
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