Have you ever wondered how to find educational documentaries that are suitable for kids? As a parent or guardian, it can be difficult to navigate through the plethora of content available and ensure that the documentaries your child watches are both educational and age-appropriate. Fortunately, there are various resources and strategies you can utilize to find the perfect documentaries for your little ones. In this article, we will explore some effective ways to discover educational documentaries that are not only informative but also engaging for kids. So, let’s embark on this journey together and discover the exciting world of educational documentaries for kids!
Use Educational Streaming Services
Netflix
Netflix is a popular streaming service that offers a wide range of educational content for kids. From award-winning documentaries to informative series, Netflix has it all. With their user-friendly interface and extensive collection of educational shows, it’s a great platform to explore and expand your child’s knowledge. You can easily search for educational documentaries by using specific keywords or browsing through their dedicated “Educational” category. One of the benefits of Netflix is that it allows you to create individual profiles, so you can monitor and customize the content your child has access to.
Amazon Prime
Another excellent option for finding educational documentaries suitable for kids is Amazon Prime. With a vast library of movies and shows, Amazon Prime offers a variety of educational content across different subjects. You can explore their “Kids & Family” section, which includes educational documentaries specifically designed for young learners. Additionally, Amazon Prime allows you to create child profiles with appropriate content restrictions, ensuring a safe and educational streaming experience for your child.
Hulu
Hulu is known for its impressive collection of TV shows and movies, but it also offers a selection of educational documentaries suitable for kids. You can find educational content by searching for specific keywords or browsing through their diverse range of categories. Whether you’re looking for science-themed documentaries or history-based shows, Hulu has something for every curious young mind. Like other streaming services, Hulu provides parental controls that allow you to filter and monitor the content your child can access.
CuriosityStream
CuriosityStream is a streaming platform solely dedicated to educational content, making it an ideal choice for finding educational documentaries for kids. With a subscription to CuriosityStream, you gain access to an extensive library of high-quality documentaries spanning various subjects like science, nature, history, and technology. The platform also offers a separate CuriosityStream Kids section, specifically curated to engage and educate young viewers. CuriosityStream is an excellent resource for parents looking to provide their children with enriching and informative content.
Visit Educational Websites
PBS Kids
PBS Kids is a trusted and reliable online destination for educational content for kids. The website features a wide array of games, videos, and interactive activities designed to foster learning in a fun and engaging way. PBS Kids covers various subjects, including math, science, reading, and social-emotional development. With its educational and entertaining content, PBS Kids is a valuable resource for parents looking to supplement their child’s education.
National Geographic Kids
National Geographic Kids offers a wealth of educational resources for children curious about the natural world. The website features captivating articles, stunning photographs, and interactive games that explore topics like animals, geography, and the environment. National Geographic Kids provides a safe online environment that encourages learning and discovery through engaging content.
Smithsonian Channel
The Smithsonian Channel’s website is a treasure trove of educational information and content. It offers a plethora of educational videos, articles, and exhibits that cover a wide variety of topics, including history, science, art, and culture. The Smithsonian Channel’s website not only provides informative content but also encourages critical thinking and curiosity in young minds.
Khan Academy
Khan Academy is a well-known educational platform that offers free, high-quality educational resources for learners of all ages. The website covers a wide range of subjects, including math, science, history, and more. Khan Academy utilizes engaging videos, interactive exercises, and personalized learning tools to make education accessible and enjoyable for students. Whether your child needs help with specific subjects or wants to explore new areas of knowledge, Khan Academy is a fantastic resource to consider.
Search on Educational YouTube Channels
SciShow Kids
SciShow Kids is an educational YouTube channel that makes learning science entertaining and accessible for young viewers. Hosted by Jessi and her robot assistant, Squeaks, SciShow Kids explores various scientific topics through engaging videos. The channel covers subjects like animals, space, experiments, and more, encouraging curiosity and a love for learning in children.
Crash Course Kids
Crash Course Kids is a YouTube channel that offers animated educational videos on a wide range of subjects. With its colorful visuals and enthusiastic hosts, Crash Course Kids makes learning fun and engaging. The channel covers topics such as science, engineering, math, and history. The bite-sized lessons and captivating animations make Crash Course Kids a valuable resource for young learners.
National Geographic Kids
National Geographic Kids has an official YouTube channel that brings the wonders of the natural world directly to young viewers. The channel features educational videos on animals, nature, and exploration. National Geographic Kids’ YouTube channel provides children with captivating visuals and fascinating facts that inspire curiosity and a love for the world around them.
Sesame Street
Sesame Street’s YouTube channel offers a wide range of educational videos designed to engage and entertain young viewers. With beloved characters like Elmo, Cookie Monster, and Big Bird, Sesame Street tackles educational topics like numbers, letters, and emotions in a fun and interactive way. Sesame Street’s YouTube channel is a go-to resource for parents looking to supplement their child’s early learning experiences.
Check Out Public Libraries
Library Websites and Catalogs
Public libraries have always been a valuable resource for finding educational materials, and many now offer online services through their websites and catalogs. Most library websites provide access to digital resources, including e-books, audiobooks, and educational databases. These online catalogs allow you to search for specific educational materials and check their availability from the comfort of your own home.
Speak with a Librarian
Librarians are experts in finding educational resources, and they are always ready to help you. If you’re unsure where to start or need assistance finding age-appropriate educational documentaries for your child, reach out to a librarian. Whether you visit your local library in person or contact them online, librarians can provide recommendations based on your child’s interests and educational needs.
Request Interlibrary Loan
If your local library doesn’t have the educational documentaries you’re looking for, they may be able to borrow them from another library through an interlibrary loan program. Interlibrary loan allows you to access materials from libraries across different locations, expanding the range of educational resources available to you and your child.
Attend Library Programs
Public libraries often host a variety of educational programs for children, such as storytimes, STEM workshops, and author visits. These programs provide hands-on learning experiences and opportunities for children to engage with educational materials in a social setting. Check your local library’s website or bulletin board for upcoming events that align with your child’s interests.
Ask for Recommendations
Teachers and Educators
Teachers and educators have a wealth of knowledge and experience when it comes to educational resources for children. Reach out to your child’s teacher or other educators in your community to ask for recommendations on educational documentaries suitable for kids. They can provide valuable insights and suggest age-appropriate materials that align with your child’s educational goals.
Parents and Guardians
Other parents and guardians are excellent sources of recommendations for educational documentaries. Chatting with other parents at school events, playgrounds, or online parenting communities can help you discover hidden educational gems. Sharing experiences and discussing educational materials with fellow parents can lead to meaningful recommendations that are tried and tested by other families.
Online Parenting Communities
Online parenting communities are a valuable resource for parents seeking educational recommendations. Platforms like parenting forums, Facebook groups, and specialized parenting websites offer spaces where parents can exchange ideas, ask questions, and seek advice. Joining these communities opens up opportunities to connect with like-minded parents who can share their favorite educational documentaries and provide valuable insights.
Social Media Platforms
Social media platforms can be more than just a place to connect with friends and family; they can also be valuable sources of educational recommendations. Follow educational influencers, parenting bloggers, and educational organizations on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. These individuals and organizations often share recommendations for educational documentaries and other resources that can benefit your child’s learning journey.
Read Educational Magazines and Newspapers
Highlights
Highlights is a long-standing educational magazine beloved by children and parents alike. The magazine offers a wide range of educational content, including puzzles, riddles, stories, and non-fiction articles. Highlights engages young readers with its interactive format, making it a fun way to enhance their reading and critical thinking skills.
National Geographic Kids
National Geographic Kids also offers a magazine that brings the wonders of the natural world to young readers. With stunning photography, fascinating articles, and interactive features, National Geographic Kids magazine sparks curiosity and encourages a love for exploration and learning. The magazine covers various topics, including animals, science, geography, and more.
Time for Kids
Time for Kids is a magazine that delivers age-appropriate news and current events to young readers. The magazine aims to promote literacy, critical thinking, and global awareness by covering important topics in a kid-friendly and informative way. Time for Kids encourages children to develop reading habits and stay informed about the world around them.
Scholastic News
Scholastic News is a trusted source of current events and educational content for students. The magazine covers a variety of topics, including science, social studies, and technology. Scholastic News delivers relevant and engaging articles that promote critical thinking and encourage students to stay informed about the world in an age-appropriate manner.
Look for Educational TV Channels
PBS Kids
PBS Kids is not only an online resource but also a TV channel that offers a lineup of educational programming for children. Tune in to PBS Kids for shows like “Sesame Street,” “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood,” and “Wild Kratts.” These programs are designed to entertain and educate young viewers, covering topics like literacy, problem-solving, and social-emotional development.
Disney Channel
While primarily known for its entertainment content, the Disney Channel also offers educational programming suitable for kids. Shows like “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse,” “Little Einsteins,” and “Handy Manny” infuse educational themes into their engaging storylines. Disney Channel’s educational shows provide an entertaining way for children to learn important lessons and skills.
Animal Planet
Animal Planet is a channel dedicated to exploring the wonders of the animal kingdom. With its engaging documentaries and informative series, Animal Planet offers educational content that immerses children in the natural world. From learning about exotic animals to understanding ecosystems, Animal Planet’s educational programming fosters a deep appreciation for nature and wildlife.
History Channel
The History Channel is a go-to resource for educational programming that delves into historical events, figures, and eras. Whether it’s ancient civilizations, world wars, or inventions that shaped the world, the History Channel provides informative and engaging content for children interested in history. Learning about the past through captivating documentaries can spark curiosity and inspire young learners.
Attend Educational Events and Exhibitions
Museums and Science Centers
Museums and science centers offer a wealth of educational experiences for children. From interactive exhibits to hands-on workshops, these institutions foster learning in a stimulating and memorable way. Check out local museums and science centers in your area for educational events, exhibits, and programs specific to children’s learning needs and interests.
Educational Festivals and Conferences
Educational festivals and conferences provide platforms for children to engage with educational content outside of traditional classroom settings. These events often feature hands-on activities, informative talks, and workshops led by experts in various fields. Attending educational festivals and conferences not only exposes children to new ideas and concepts but also encourages a love for lifelong learning.
Local Community Events
Local communities often organize educational events for children, such as nature walks, science fairs, and cultural festivals. These events provide opportunities for children to learn about their community, explore different subjects, and engage with educational content in a social setting. Keep an eye out for local community events that promote education and offer unique learning experiences for your child.
Zoos and Aquariums
Zoos and aquariums are not only entertaining attractions but also valuable educational resources. These facilities often offer educational programs and interactive experiences that allow children to learn about different animal species and their habitats. From guided tours to animal encounters, zoos and aquariums provide hands-on learning opportunities that spark curiosity and encourage environmental awareness.
Join Educational Online Platforms
ABCmouse
ABCmouse is an interactive online platform designed for early learners. The platform offers a comprehensive curriculum covering various subjects like reading, math, science, and art. ABCmouse engages children through interactive games, puzzles, and activities that align with their developmental needs. The platform provides a structured and engaging learning experience that complements formal education.
Nat Geo Kids
Nat Geo Kids is an online platform that offers educational resources focused on the natural world. The platform features articles, videos, quizzes, and games that cover a wide range of topics, including animals, geography, and conservation. Nat Geo Kids encourages children to explore and understand the world around them through engaging and informative content.
BrainPOP
BrainPOP is an animated educational platform that covers a diverse range of subjects, including science, history, math, and more. Through its animated videos, quizzes, and interactive activities, BrainPOP makes complex topics accessible and engaging for young learners. The platform offers age-appropriate content that supports critical thinking and encourages curiosity.
Prodigy
Prodigy is an online math platform that combines educational content with gamified elements. It offers a personalized math learning experience for children through interactive games and challenges. Prodigy adapts to each child’s skill level and presents math concepts in an engaging and interactive way, making learning enjoyable and effective.
Use Mobile Applications
PBS Kids Games
PBS Kids Games offers a collection of educational games designed to entertain and educate young learners. The app features a variety of interactive games that cover different subjects, including math, science, reading, and problem-solving. PBS Kids Games provides a safe and engaging digital environment for children to learn and have fun.
Khan Academy Kids
Khan Academy Kids is a comprehensive educational app that covers a wide range of subjects for young learners. It offers interactive activities, books, and videos that promote literacy, math skills, creativity, and social-emotional development. Khan Academy Kids provides a personalized and engaging learning experience that adapts to each child’s unique needs.
National Geographic Kids
National Geographic Kids also offers a mobile app that brings their educational content to young learners. The app features informative articles, quizzes, and interactive games that cover a wide range of topics related to wildlife, nature, and exploration. National Geographic Kids app engages children through captivating visuals and encourages a deeper understanding of the natural world.
SplashLearn
SplashLearn is a mobile app that focuses on math education for young children. The app offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to build and strengthen math skills through interactive games and activities. SplashLearn adapts to each child’s progress and provides a personalized learning experience that aligns with their individual needs.
With the vast array of resources available, finding educational documentaries and materials suitable for kids has become easier than ever. Whether you choose to explore educational streaming services, visit websites, rely on recommendations, or engage in educational events, there are countless opportunities to enhance your child’s learning experience. By incorporating these resources into your child’s education, you can foster a love for learning and provide them with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive academically and beyond.