What Cartoons Are Tweens Watching? A Parent’s Guide to Popular Picks
Hey parents! If you’ve ever peeked over your 10–13-year-old’s shoulder while they’re glued to a screen, you’ve probably wondered: What exactly are they watching? The tween years are a unique phase where kids crave stories that mix humor, adventure, and relatable characters—but aren’t too “babyish” or overly mature. Cartoons today are smarter, more diverse, and packed with themes that resonate with this age group. Let’s dive into the shows that are capturing their attention and why they’re worth a watch (or at least a parental nod of approval).
1. Action-Packed Adventures
Tweens love stories where characters face epic challenges, solve mysteries, or save the world. These shows often blend fast-paced storytelling with humor and heart.
– Avatar: The Last Airbender (Netflix, Paramount+)
A timeless favorite, this series combines Eastern-inspired martial arts with elemental magic. Follow Aang, the young Avatar, as he learns to master all four elements to bring balance to a war-torn world. Tweens adore its mix of goofy humor, complex villains, and themes like responsibility, friendship, and growth.
– The Dragon Prince (Netflix)
Created by some of the minds behind Avatar, this fantasy saga revolves around two princes and an elven assassin teaming up to prevent a war. With magic, dragons, and moral dilemmas, it’s perfect for kids who enjoy layered plots and characters who question right vs. wrong.
– Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur (Disney+)
This Marvel-inspired series stars Lunella Lafayette, a genius 13-year-old who teams up with a giant red dinosaur to protect her neighborhood. It’s vibrant, funny, and celebrates STEM skills, creativity, and girl power.
2. Comedy Gold: Relatable Laughs
Humor is a universal language for tweens, and today’s cartoons deliver it in spades—without relying on cringe-worthy tropes.
– The Loud House (Nickelodeon)
Follow Lincoln Loud, the only boy in a family of 11 siblings, as he navigates the chaos of big-family life. The show’s slapstick comedy and heartfelt moments make it a hit for its portrayal of sibling dynamics and everyday tween struggles.
– Craig of the Creek (Cartoon Network)
This slice-of-life series centers on Craig and his friends exploring a sprawling creek that serves as their playground. It’s nostalgic for parents (think The Goonies meets modern kid culture) and refreshingly authentic, tackling topics like teamwork, creativity, and community.
– The Ghost and Molly McGee (Disney Channel)
A quirky comedy about an optimistic tween who befriends a grumpy ghost. Their misadventures are lighthearted but sneak in lessons about empathy, facing fears, and embracing life’s messiness.
3. Fantasy & Sci-Fi Escapism
For kids who dream of other worlds, these shows offer imaginative settings and high-stakes storytelling.
– Hilda (Netflix)
Based on the graphic novels, this beautifully animated series follows Hilda, a brave blue-haired girl who moves from a magical wilderness to a city full of trolls, giants, and hidden secrets. Its calm pacing and themes of curiosity and environmentalism make it a gem.
– Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts (Netflix)
Set in a post-apocalyptic world ruled by mutant animals, Kipo’s journey to find her family is packed with wild creativity, catchy music, and messages about unity and embracing differences.
– Amphibia (Disney Channel)
When 13-year-old Anne gets transported to a frog-filled swamp world, she learns survival skills, loyalty, and self-confidence. The show balances absurd humor with emotional depth, especially in its exploration of friendship across cultures.
4. Shows with Sneaky Educational Value
Some cartoons entertain while subtly teaching science, history, or social skills—perfect for parents who want “screen time” to double as learning time.
– The Magic School Bus Rides Again (Netflix)
A reboot of the classic ’90s series, Ms. Frizzle’s younger sister takes kids on wild science adventures. Episodes explore topics like climate change, engineering, and space—all with the same quirky charm.
– Carmen Sandiego (Netflix)
This stylish reboot turns the iconic thief into a Robin Hood-like figure stealing from villains. Alongside heists, the show weaves in geography, history, and critical thinking.
– Bluey (Disney+)
Though aimed at younger kids, Bluey has a massive tween fanbase for its clever humor and heartfelt storytelling. The episodes about family bonds, problem-solving, and emotional resilience resonate with older kids, too.
5. Nostalgia Reboots (That Tweens Love Too)
Old-school cartoons revived with fresh twists are bridging the generation gap.
– Rugrats (Paramount+)
The reboot of the ’90s classic introduces the original diaper-clad adventurers to modern tech and challenges. Parents get a nostalgia hit, while tweens laugh at the babies’ chaotic antics.
– Animaniacs (Hulu)
The Warner siblings are back with their trademark satire and musical parodies. While some jokes fly over kids’ heads, the slapstick and pop culture references keep tweens entertained.
Why These Shows Work for 10–13-Year-Olds
Tweens are at an age where they’re exploring their identities, forming stronger opinions, and craving independence. The best cartoons for this group:
– Avoid talking down to them. Shows like Avatar and The Dragon Prince trust kids to handle complex plots.
– Feature diverse characters. Representation matters, and series like Craig of the Creek and Moon Girl reflect multicultural, real-world experiences.
– Balance fun and depth. Whether it’s Hilda’s quiet life lessons or Amphibia’s emotional arcs, these stories entertain while helping kids process big feelings.
Final Thoughts
Next time your tween giggles at a cartoon or debates their favorite character, ask them why they love it—you might learn something new about their interests (or even find a show to watch together!). Today’s animated series aren’t just distractions; they’re tools that spark creativity, teach resilience, and remind kids they’re not alone in navigating the wild ride of growing up.
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