Kids' streaming can be wonderful — or a never-ending stream of noisy, ad-filled videos. The difference is the app. We ranked the most popular kids' options by what parents care about: age-appropriate content, safety controls, ads and value.
Features and plans change. Always check each app's current parental settings when you set it up.
1. PBS Kids — best free choice
The PBS Kids Video app streams well-loved educational shows for free, with no subscription. The content is designed around learning and is made for young children.
- Ages: preschool to early elementary
- Ads: none in the traditional sense
- Why we love it: free, trusted and educational
2. Disney+ — best for families
Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars and National Geographic in one place, with a Junior Mode profile for younger children and a PIN to lock adult profiles.
- Ages: all ages, with strong kids' profiles
- Ads: depends on your plan
- Why we love it: huge library the whole family enjoys together
3. Netflix Kids profiles
Netflix's Kids profiles show only titles within a maturity rating you choose. There's a strong lineup of animated series and family films.
- Ages: set by maturity rating
- Ads: depends on your plan
- Why we love it: easy controls and lots of variety
4. YouTube Kids
A separate app from YouTube with age-based content levels, timers and the ability to approve specific channels or videos only.
- Ages: preschool to about 12
- Ads: yes
- Why we love it: "approved content only" mode gives parents real control
5. Library apps (Kanopy Kids and Hoopla)
With a library card, Kanopy Kids and Hoopla offer ad-free kids' films and shows, including educational picks.
- Ages: varies
- Ads: none
- Why we love it: free with your library card
6. Amazon Kids+
A kids' subscription with books, apps, games and video, designed for Amazon Fire tablets and devices, with detailed parental controls.
- Ages: about 3–12
- Ads: none
- Why we love it: great for Fire tablets on road trips
7. Paramount+ (Nickelodeon)
Home to Nickelodeon favorites, with kids' profiles and parental controls.
- Ages: preschool to tweens
- Why we love it: classic and current Nick shows
Set these controls on every app
- A kids' profile with the right age rating
- A PIN on adult profiles
- Screen-time limits on the device or app
- Downloads of approved shows for car rides — see watching TV while traveling
Our quick picks
- Free: PBS Kids + a library app
- Whole family: Disney+
- Most control: YouTube Kids with approved content only
- Tablets and travel: Amazon Kids+
Need help picking a family movie? Try our tips on finding something good to watch.
Frequently asked questions
What is the safest streaming app for kids?
PBS Kids and YouTube Kids with "approved content only" mode are among the safest, because the content is curated or chosen by parents.
Is YouTube Kids safe?
It's safer than regular YouTube, especially if you use age settings or approve specific channels. Supervision is still a good idea.
Are there free streaming apps for kids?
Yes. PBS Kids Video is free, and Kanopy Kids and Hoopla are free with a participating library card.
How do I stop my kids from watching adult shows?
Create kids' profiles with the right maturity rating and add a PIN to adult profiles so kids can't switch.
