One of my favorite ways to unwind after a long day is to cozy up with my family and catch a show that’s actually enjoyable. It’s even better when we can find something suitable for the kids that won’t leave them traumatized (looking at you, horror films!). Here are 10 series that I’ve watched with my kids, and trust me, they’re all gems. While we do indulge in some screen time during the week, I’ve learned to embrace it. Right now, we’re racing through Gortimer Gibbons because Normal Street is anything but normal! My family loves a bit of magic, a sprinkle of creepiness, and animal antics, so if a show checks one of those boxes and isn’t too scary, we’re in!
Here are our top ten picks:
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Gortimer Gibbons: Life on Normal Street
This show has us hooked! It’s filled with quirky, magical occurrences that make Normal Street feel delightfully odd, yet not terrifying. There are time capsules, ghostly cars, and treasure hunts—what’s not to love? -
Just Add Magic
When three girls stumble upon a magical cookbook, their culinary adventures lead to some unexpected twists. Plus, there’s a mystery surrounding one of their grandmas—who’s in on it? Just be wary of that Last Ditch Layer Cake! -
Anne With an “E”
I’m slightly obsessed with this adaptation of Anne of Green Gables. It’s reminiscent of Little House on the Prairie, and my kids are fascinated by the stark contrast of life in the late 1800s. No cellphones, just candlelight and horse-drawn carriages! -
Dragons: Race to the Edge
If you loved How to Train Your Dragon, you’ll enjoy this series. The plot is engaging enough to pull me in, even if I’m trying to multitask. With five seasons of about 20 minutes each, it’s perfect for short attention spans. -
The Worst Witch
Imagine a magical school where one girl feels out of place. The Worst Witch has a modern twist on the classic story, keeping us all guessing about how Mildred will navigate her many misadventures. -
Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events
Neil Patrick Harris shines as the dastardly Count Olaf in this adaptation. With a mix of humor and mystery, it’s a fun ride through the ups and downs of three orphaned siblings trying to outsmart their greedy relative. -
Treehouse Masters
My kids are obsessed with this show! Watching Pete Nelson design and build incredible treehouses captivates them and inspires creativity. We even decided to build our own treehouse this summer! -
Project Runway Junior
For any young fashion enthusiasts, this show is a must-see. The talented kids work under pressure without the drama, and my little ones are always begging to stay up for the runway show. They’re like mini-Anna Wintours! -
Planet Earth
The stunning visuals and fascinating stories in Planet Earth are awe-inspiring. I learned about caterpillars that freeze for years in Antarctica! Just a heads up: it can be a bit intense, so be cautious with younger viewers. -
Stranger Things
A huge WARNING here—this show is not for the faint of heart! My youngest didn’t watch it, but my 10-year-old did with his grandma. It’s thrilling, but I suggest you preview it first if you think your older kids can handle it.
Happy viewing! Let us know some of your favorite family shows too. And if you’re curious about home insemination, you might want to check out Make A Mom’s sperm donor matching group or learn about their at-home insemination options. They have great resources, including a guide on how at-home insemination works and their CryoBaby at-home insemination kit. For more information about pregnancy, the CDC’s infertility FAQ is an excellent resource.
In summary, these shows offer a delightful mix of entertainment for the whole family, ensuring you won’t be bored while spending quality time together.
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