What Are Tweens Watching on YouTube and TV? A Peek Into Their Screens
If you’ve ever wondered what’s playing on the devices of 9- to 12-year-olds lately, you’re not alone. Tweens—the age group straddling childhood and adolescence—are growing up in a world where YouTube and streaming platforms are their go-to sources of entertainment. From quirky challenges to animated adventures, their viewing habits reflect a mix of creativity, humor, and curiosity. Let’s dive into the shows, channels, and trends that are capturing their attention.
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YouTube: The Hub of DIY, Gaming, and Relatable Personalities
For tweens, YouTube isn’t just a platform—it’s a playground. Unlike traditional TV, YouTube offers bite-sized content tailored to niche interests. Here’s what’s trending:
1. Gaming Channels
Titles like Minecraft and Roblox dominate their watchlists, but it’s the personalities behind the gameplay that keep tweens hooked. Channels like PrestonPlayz and LankyBox blend humor with gameplay walkthroughs, while SSSniperWolf reacts to viral videos and games. These creators often act like older siblings, making jokes and sharing stories that resonate with younger audiences.
2. DIY and Craft Challenges
Creativity is king. Channels like 5-Minute Crafts and LaurDIY inspire tweens to try everything from slime-making to room decor hacks. The appeal? Simple, hands-on projects that promise instant gratification.
3. Short-Form Comedy
TikTok-style clips thrive on YouTube too. Creators like Ryan’s World (formerly Ryan ToysReview) and The Royalty Family mix pranks, challenges, and family-friendly humor. These videos often mimic the fast-paced, chaotic energy of hanging out with friends—a vibe tweens love.
4. “Study With Me” and Productivity Content
Surprisingly, “study together” videos are gaining traction. Channels like TheStrive Studies or MDMotivator feature calming footage of students studying for hours, accompanied by lo-fi music. For tweens juggling school and screen time, these videos create a sense of focus and community.
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TV Shows and Streaming: Nostalgia, Adventure, and Animated Escapes
While YouTube rules short-form content, tweens still binge longer stories on TV and streaming services. Here’s what’s popular:
1. Animated Series With Edge
Cartoons aren’t just for kids anymore. Shows like The Amazing World of Gumball (Cartoon Network) and Avatar: The Last Airbender (Netflix) blend slapstick comedy with deeper themes like friendship and identity. Netflix’s Hilda, with its whimsical art style and mystical creatures, also strikes a chord.
2. Live-Action Comedies
Tweens crave relatable characters navigating school and family life. Disney+’s The Suite Life of Zack & Cody (a reboot favorite) and Raven’s Home offer lighthearted drama, while Netflix’s The Babysitters Club tackles issues like entrepreneurship and inclusivity in a tween-friendly way.
3. Fantasy and Supernatural Thrills
Series like Stranger Things (Netflix) and Percy Jackson and the Olympians (Disney+) mix adventure with coming-of-age struggles. Even if some content skews slightly older, tweens often watch with siblings or parents, drawn to the epic storytelling.
4. Reality Competition Shows
Programs like LEGO Masters (Hulu) or MasterChef Junior (Hulu/Netflix) let tweens root for contestants their age. These shows emphasize teamwork and creativity, making them both entertaining and aspirational.
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Why This Content Connects
Tweens are in a unique phase—they’re outgrowing “little kid” shows but aren’t ready for teen dramas. The content they consume often mirrors their interests:
– Autonomy: YouTube lets them explore hobbies (like gaming or art) independently.
– Identity: Characters in shows like The Owl House or She-Ra grapple with self-discovery, a theme tweens relate to.
– Social Currency: Watching trending videos or shows helps them bond with peers. (“Have you seen the new Skibidi Toilet meme?”)
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Parental Insights: Balancing Fun and Safety
While much of this content is harmless, parents often wonder how to navigate the sheer volume of options. A few tips:
– Co-Viewing: Watch an episode of Bluey or Adventure Time together. These shows spark conversations about emotions and problem-solving.
– Curate Playlists: Use YouTube Kids or platform parental controls to filter content.
– Discuss Digital Literacy: Teach tweens to recognize ads, sponsored content, or unrealistic challenges (like extreme “24-hour” dares).
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The Big Picture
Tweens’ viewing habits are a window into their world—a blend of imagination, social connection, and growing independence. Whether they’re glued to a YouTube crafting tutorial or binge-watching a fantasy series, their choices reflect a desire to laugh, learn, and feel understood. By staying curious about what’s on their screens, adults can guide them toward content that’s both entertaining and enriching. After all, today’s tweens aren’t just passive viewers; they’re creators, critics, and culture-shapers in their own right.
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