What’s on the Screen? A Deep Dive into What Tweens Are Watching on YouTube and TV
The tween years—roughly ages 8 to 12—are a fascinating phase of growth. Kids in this age group are no longer little children, but they’re not quite teenagers yet. Their tastes in entertainment are evolving rapidly, and the content they consume on platforms like YouTube and TV reflects this transition. From lighthearted comedy to relatable challenges, tweens are drawn to media that mirrors their budding independence, curiosity, and social lives. Here’s a look at what’s trending in their viewing habits and why these shows and creators resonate so deeply.
1. YouTube Creators Who Feel Like Friends
For tweens, YouTube isn’t just a platform—it’s a social hub. Channels like Ryan’s World (formerly Ryan ToysReview), with its mix of toy unboxings and science experiments, remain popular among younger tweens. However, older tweens often gravitate toward creators who blend humor, storytelling, and a sense of authenticity.
Take Emma Chamberlain, for example. Though she’s in her early 20s, her quirky, unfiltered vlogs about daily life, fashion, and coffee obsessions strike a chord with tweens who admire her relatable personality. Similarly, creators like JoJo Siwa (with her high-energy dance challenges) and The Norris Nuts (a family of young influencers sharing their adventures) dominate tween watchlists. These creators often address topics like friendship, school stress, and self-expression—themes tweens care about deeply.
2. Streaming Shows That Mix Comedy and Drama
When it comes to TV, streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu are king. Tweens love series that balance humor with light drama, often featuring characters their age navigating school, friendships, and family.
Netflix’s The Baby-Sitters Club reboot is a standout. Based on the beloved book series, the show tackles topics like entrepreneurship, identity, and sibling relationships in a way that feels modern yet nostalgic. Disney+’s High School Musical: The Musical: The Series also remains a hit, combining music, theater, and teen romance with a playful self-awareness that tweens find irresistible.
Animated series haven’t lost their appeal, either. The Loud House (Nickelodeon) and The Ghost and Molly McGee (Disney Channel) blend slapstick comedy with heartfelt moments, making them go-to choices for family-friendly laughs.
3. Nostalgia… But Make It New
Today’s tweens are rediscovering classics—but with a twist. Shows like Stranger Things (Netflix) and Cobra Kai (Netflix) introduce them to 80s and 90s pop culture through fresh storylines. Meanwhile, reboots of Raven’s Home (Disney Channel) and iCarly (Paramount+) merge nostalgia with modern humor, appealing to both kids and their parents.
On YouTube, “nostalgic” challenges—like trying retro snacks or recreating viral trends from the early 2000s—are a hit. Creators like Rebecca Zamolo and her “10-Minute Challenges” series tap into this by blending throwback themes with fast-paced, interactive content.
4. Short-Form Videos and Viral Trends
TikTok’s influence is undeniable, even on YouTube. Platforms like YouTube Shorts and Instagram Reels have trained tweens to crave bite-sized, high-energy clips. Channels like ZHC (known for extravagant art giveaways) and MrBeast (with his over-the-top challenges and philanthropy) dominate this space. Their videos are flashy, fast-paced, and often feature collaborations with other creators, which keeps tweens hooked.
Viral challenges—think “Try Not to Laugh” compilations or DIY crafts—also thrive here. These trends aren’t just for watching; tweens love participating in them, filming their own versions to share with friends.
5. Fandom Culture and “Safe” Drama
Tweens are passionate about fandoms, whether it’s obsessing over K-pop groups like BTS or diving into the world of Harry Potter and Percy Jackson. YouTube channels dedicated to fan theories, behind-the-scenes trivia, and fan art (like Screen Rant or ComicBook.com) feed this enthusiasm.
Meanwhile, TV shows like Heartstopper (Netflix) and Julie and the Phantoms (Netflix) offer gentle, age-appropriate drama centered on crushes, self-discovery, and teamwork. These series avoid overly mature themes, making them parent-approved favorites.
6. Educational Content… That Doesn’t Feel Like School
Learning through entertainment is huge for tweens. YouTube channels like Mark Rober (science experiments), Kurzgesagt – In a Nutshell (animated explainers), and TED-Ed (educational storytelling) make complex topics engaging. Even gaming YouTubers like DanTDM often incorporate problem-solving and creativity into their videos.
On TV, shows like MythBusters Jr. (Discovery) and Brainchild (Netflix) use experiments and humor to teach physics, biology, and social skills. Tweens love feeling like they’re gaining “secret knowledge” without the pressure of a classroom.
Why This Content Resonates
Tweens are at a stage where they crave independence but still rely on guidance. The shows and creators they watch often reflect this duality:
– Relatability: Content featuring kids their age dealing with school, family, or insecurities helps them feel seen.
– Escapism: Fantasy worlds (like The Owl House or Avatar: The Last Airbender) let them explore bigger themes in a safe space.
– Social Connection: Watching the same shows as their friends gives tweens shared talking points—a digital version of passing notes in class.
What Parents Should Know
While much of this content is harmless fun, parents should stay aware of:
– Ads and Influencer Marketing: Unboxing videos or “favorite product” lists can blur the line between entertainment and advertising.
– Screen Time Balance: It’s easy for tweens to fall into endless scrolling. Setting boundaries helps maintain a healthy mix of online and offline activities.
– Comments and Interactions: Encouraging kids to avoid toxic comment sections or oversharing personal details is crucial.
The Takeaway
The media tweens consume today is more diverse and interactive than ever. From YouTube creators who feel like older siblings to TV shows that tackle real-life issues with humor, this content isn’t just entertainment—it’s a window into their world. By staying curious about what they’re watching (and why), parents and educators can better guide tweens toward content that inspires creativity, empathy, and a love for learning. After all, the right show or video might just spark the next big passion in a tween’s life.
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