If you aren’t new here you already know making sure our kids see positive representations in everything they consume is something we take seriously. It’s important that we make sure our kids are getting culturally relevant entertainment as well. Having Black children’s shows that we can show them and watch together as a family is affirming and uplifting. It helps them learn more about their own culture and instills a sense of pride. It’s not just enough for them to see themselves represented in books but in all spaces. So here is a small (but growing!) list I have compiled of some shows we love featuring Black characters sharing Black joy!
Jools Tv on YouTube
Jools TV is an animation series that features fun adventures, education, and entertainment!
Gracie’s Corner on YouTube
Gracie’s Corner is a combination of educational, fun, and encouraging songs for children.
Motown Magic on Netflix
A show about an imaginative boy named Ben who transforms his city by bringing colorful street art to life, armed with a magic paintbrush and the classic sounds of Motown.
Ada Twist Scientist on Netflix
A show that embraces STEM topics about a science-loving little girl who explores helping people through scientific discovery, collaboration, and friendship.
OmoBerry on YouTube
This Black children’s show has curriculum-based episodes and songs that cover topics related to STEM learning, cross-cultural experiences, prosocial skill development, character development, and self-esteem building.
Karma’s World on Netflix
Created by rapper/actor Chris “Ludacris” Bridges. This show follows Karma who hopes of having a rap career and changing the world.
Akili and Me on YouTube
Akili learns about language, letters, numbers, and art with her animal friends in LaLa land.
Bino and Fino on YouTube
Bino and Fino is a cartoon series about a brother and sister named Bino and Fino who live with their family in Nigeria. They have many adventures where, with the help of their friend Zeena the Magic Butterfly, they discover and learn about Africa and rest of the world.
JoJo & Gran Gran on Nick Jr./Noggin
Follow 5 year old JoJo and her wise and loving grandmother “Gran Gran” on lots of adventures and travel through the different seasons!
Rise up sing out on Disney+/Disney Jr.
Is a series of animated, music-based shorts that are designed to provide an inspiring and empowering message about race, culture and community, celebrating differences and providing a framework for conversation.
Black children rarely ever see themselves represented in the media
It should be noted that having diverse and inclusive characters is beneficial to ALL children, not just Black children. However I absolutely love to see the looks on my kids faces when they see books and tv shows that features Black characters. Having Black characters opens up necessary dialogue between parents and children. And it provides an opportunity for learning and growth.
Sidenote: Did you notice that most of these shows has a musical element? If your kids are anything like mine they absolutely love dancing and singing. We absolutely love hearing about new shows or even some old ones I might have missed. If you have any you would like to share with us please feel free to share in the comments!
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