Children's entertainment has occupied a special place in television since the early Saturday morning cartoons of the 1930s. Beginning with classic Disney and Looney Tunes characters, almost a century later, children's television has earned a reputation for fun, escapist, and wholesome storytelling. Recent decades have also seen the rise of more mature kids' TV series, some of which have maintained the love of audiences well into adulthood.

Kids' shows can range from all-ages cartoon sitcoms to superhero stories, encompassing some of the most iconic franchises in media. Thanks to a combination of quality and nostalgia, many of these series transcend generations and genres, standing out as some of the best shows on television. From its bright, engaging characters to its timeless, enjoyable fun, children's entertainment has something to love for everyone.

Updated on March 14, 2025, by Lauren Younkin: The animation industry is continually innovating, drawing inspiration from the many great shows that built its foundation.