I remember the year 2000. I turned 6 years old that January, and I was a shy, inquisitive kid finishing out kindergarten. At that fun age, I discovered my love of McDonald’s kids’ meals, tracing coloring pages, and watching the superhero crime-fighting classic show The Powerpuff Girls. While that show was officially released in 1998, I remember discovering it in my kindergarten days two years later. As much as I wish I could highlight The Powerpuff Girls on this list, that’s another article for another day.
Today, I’m focused on cartoons released in 2000. These 25 cartoons turn 25 in 2025. I recall watching some of these titles like it was yesterday, including Clifford the Big Red Dog, Static Shock, As Told By Ginger, Dora the Explorer, Jackie Chan Adventures, and Buzz Lightyear of Star Command. Then there are other cartoons released in 2000 that I’ve just started exploring with my own children.
Hop on this Millennial-driven adventure of nostalgia and rediscovery as we celebrate the cartoons that shaped our after-school routines and Saturday morning television-watching endeavors. Even a quarter of a century later, you might catch yourself humming along with some of their theme songs as you watch along.
Clifford the Big Red Dog (2000-2003)
Clifford the Big Red Dog is based on the beloved children’s book series of the same name, authored by Norman Bridwell. The cartoon follows the daily adventures of a girl named Emily Elizabeth and her big, red loyal canine, Clifford. They have fun with old and new friends during their journeys. Clifford, Cleo, T-Bone, and his other canine friends converse with each other, adding a level of charm and imagination to the series for viewers.
What Kids Learn From Clifford the Big Red Dog: Kids can learn responsibility and understanding throughout Clifford’s adventures. They will see how differences between others make everyone unique and that all individuals (and animals) should be treated with kindness and consideration.
I remember the episode, “A New Friend” (Season 1, Episode 8), where Clifford and friends meet a three-legged dog named K.C. Cleo and T-Bone are unsure of interacting with K.C. at first because of his physical differences, but Clifford teaches them that anyone can be a friend regardless of what they look like. I always teach my children this valuable lesson: to be inclusive with individuals at school and throughout the community, so everyone feels included.
Jackie Chan Adventures (2000-2005)
Jackie Chan plays a cartoonized version of himself in a fictional world where he battles evil enemies while searching for magical talismans so the Dark Hand does not use them for evil. The avid archaeologist and martial artist fights alongside Uncle Chan, a master of Chi Magic, and his niece, Jade Chan, who is the Chosen One of the Ben-Shui Order. I think watching Jackie Chan Adventures eventually opened up my love of anime in my teen years watching Dragon Ball Z and Naruto.
What Kids Learn From Jackie Chan Adventures: Knowledge and heart are just as important as having brawn. It doesn’t matter how physically strong you are. Dedication to one’s craft and constantly building a strong foundation of knowledge will help you to succeed. Children will also learn a cultural appreciation for Chinese customs and practices.
As Told By Ginger (2000-2016)
As Told By Ginger was my favorite cartoon released in 2000. The cartoon series highlights a preteen girl (eventually a teenager as the characters age) experiencing adolescent growing pains and challenges along with her best friends, Dodie, Macie, and Darren. She writes in her diary daily with aspirations of becoming a published writer as an adult. Dealing with her father’s absence, a relationship with ups and downs, and, eventually, welcoming a new stepfather into her life are the best plot highlights throughout the series.
What Kids Learn From As Told By Ginger: Self-acceptance is the key to building confidence and self-esteem. Not everyone is born with the same looks or privileges, but embracing who you are is the hallmark of personal growth and long-lasting happiness. Everyone has a story to tell, and it’s up to you to tell yours with pride.
I remember watching As Told By Ginger with the underlying aspiration of wanting to be a writer as an adult, too. I’m so glad I’ve achieved my goal!
Kong: The Animated Series (2000-2001)
This child-like reimagining of the King Kong legend has a genetically engineered version of the titular character teaming up with humans to protect the Earth from various threats. Jason Jenkins and his entourage work alongside King Kong, blending science, adventure, and teamwork in this Sci-Fi lineup. They continually endeavor in their mission to bring evil forces to justice while keeping balance throughout nature.
What Kids Learn From Kong: The Animated Series: Everyone can take a part in helping to protect Earth from human and technologically related threats. Taking responsibility for making a positive environment for everyone and maintaining teamwork despite personality differences are important lessons. I always remind my children to never leave trash lying around when we are having fun out in public, which is usually a playground for us. My kids all have different personalities, but they share a common trait: they all love helping out.
Max Steel (2000-2002)
Josh McGrath is a teen turned secret agent after he gets infected with nanoprobes during a freak accident. He gains super speed, agility, and other special powers, which enable him to adopt a new alias: Max Steel. The secret agent affiliated with N-Tek fights off mutated creatures and high-tech criminals by night, and must hide his superhero identity from his friends during school days. This adrenaline-pumping sci-fi superhero show will make you feel suspenseful with all its twists and turns.
What Kids Learn From Max Steel: Viewers can learn about bravery and heroism while using their talents for a good purpose. Acts of kindness go a long way, whether large or small, when helping others. As I’m finishing this article, my oldest daughter is taking our laundry off the clothesline. She offered to do it for me without me even asking.
Buzz Lightyear Of Star Command (2000-2001)
Buzz Lightyear of Star Command was another favorite cartoon released in 2000 that I loved watching. It’s a spin-off cartoon of Toy Story, following Buzz Lightyear and other space cadets affiliated with the intergalactic alliance. Many episodes revolve around thwarting the evil plans of destruction, with Emperor Zurg at the helm, but others involve issues from lesser-known enemies.
What Kids Learn From Buzz Lightyear of Star Command: Children learn the values of perseverance, bravery, and loyalty. In the face of impossible odds, it’s best to press on towards the end goal rather than giving up. In “The Torque Armada” (Season 1, Episode 1), Booster and XR work together to apprehend the enemy, Torque, while Mira and Buzz provide backup. This demonstrates that teamwork is also crucial for success in larger projects in life.
Dora the Explorer (2000-2019)
Dora and her fun-loving monkey friend, Boots, go on fun adventures in this interactive preschool show. Dora and Boots were bound to come across Swiper the Fox up to his antics at least once per episode, throwing a wrench in their plans. This repeat-after-me type of cartoon is best suited for children aged two to six years old. I showed my eldest daughter these episodes when she was 2.
I was more into Blue’s Clues (1996-2006) than Dora the Explorer as a kid, but I still watched Dora here and there, primarily during my early elementary days between 2000 and 2002. The adventures are unique, filled with endearing characters and valuable life lessons.
What Kids Learn From Dora the Explorer: Children can learn Spanish vocabulary, which is imperative for language development as they learn a primary, secondary, or even tertiary language. Problem-solving skills are essential for building self-sufficiency and critical thinking capabilities. Gaining perseverance and confidence to solve life’s challenges will help boost self-esteem and a positive self-image.
Poochini (2000-2003)
Poochini is a privileged black-eared mixed-breed Hound dog who leaves home after his wealthy owner passes away. The local pound picks him up and adopts him out to an average American family. The series follows the adventures and challenges of Poochini as he assimilates into his new life with his adoptive family. The young boy, Billy White, becomes Poochini’s primary caretaker.
What Kids Learn From Poochini: Change can be scary with its specific set of trials and tribulations. However, adapting and being grateful for said change in the face of adversity builds appreciation and character. My oldest is usually shy on her first day of school when meeting her new teacher, but the change always helps her blossom and handle new circumstances well.
Sheep In the Big City (2000-2003)
Sheep runs away from being tested via General Specific and Private Public at the Secret Military Organization. Each episode follows Sheep’s misadventures as he escapes his handlers so he can be free from the cruel fate of weaponry testing. Individuals like Swanky, a female sheep who is Sheep’s crush, help him along the way as he remains on the run. Ben Plotz narrates the show with humor, wit, and a stringent attitude about sticking to the script.
What Kids Learn From Sheep in the Big City: Thinking creatively to solve the most significant problems is essential for achieving life goals. Determination and grit are paramount for staying true to yourself and standing up for what you believe in.
Static Shock (2000-2004)
Virgil Hawkins is a teen turned overnight superhero when he gains electromagnetic powers from a chemical explosion that erupts during a gang war. He’s a high schooler by day and a crime-fighting superhero by night. Static Shock’s challenges in delivering justice while trying to do well in school and maintain a social life are easier said than done. The cartoon series delivers true grit with complex topics, such as Virgil’s mother passing away from a gang-related fire before the first episode. There are also other issues, including racism, gang violence, and homelessness.
What Kids Learn From Static Shock: Responsibility and resilience are central themes, highlighting how staying committed to doing what’s right can sometimes be the most challenging path to walk. Standing up to bullies and injustice goes beyond physical strength; it involves exercising moral courage, empathy, and being true to oneself to effect meaningful change.
Teacher’s Pet (2000-2005)
Spot wants nothing more than to attend school with his owner, Leonard, so he can also become an educated canine. Hence, he disguises himself as a school-age boy going by the alias, Scott Leadready II, so he can achieve those two primary goals. The dog disguised as a human boy quickly climbs to the top as the most popular student in Leonard’s class. Leonard and Spot navigate challenges as they attempt to maintain their secret identity while living a normal life, enjoying time with friends, and handling their responsibilities.
What Kids Learn From Teacher’s Pet: Curiosity and self-improvement are the building blocks of discovery and learning. The importance of honesty even in the hardest moments also shines through in the cartoon’s humor. Being honest with someone, even if it means temporarily hurting their feelings, is better than constantly putting on a facade.
X-Men: Evolution (2000-2003)
The X-Men superheroes are reimagined as teenagers attending the same high school. While enduring personal teenage growing pains and other high school drama, each X-Men experiences a journey of accepting their powers and establishing a new normal. They attend Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngers where Professor Xavier and more senior X-Men, Wolverine and Storm, help the newfound superheroes control their powers through various personal and unexpected challenges.
What Kids Learn From X-Men: Evolution: Accepting and tolerating who you are can be difficult when others try to judge you. Embracing one’s uniqueness, even when other people don’t understand, is vital for self-acceptance and confidence.
The Weekenders (2000-2004)
Follow the adventures of four 7th-grade preteens (age 12) as they enjoy their weekends together as best friends. Carver, Tino, Tish, and Lor set up an adventure on Friday, develop it in more depth on Saturday, and the climax of the engagement usually occurs on Sunday. With little to no mention of middle school life and drama, these four besties are only worried about the wholesome fun of insurmountable proportions. Tino narrates each episode, offering his thoughts about what’s going on, in between the main commentary of the show’s dialogue.
What Kids Learn From The Weekenders: Friendship is timeless and priceless. As they say: family is given, but friends are chosen, so have fun with the people you meet in life. Time management while balancing extracurricular activities can be challenging, but it’s all worthwhile until you can plan your next fun endeavor. When that time ends, you can look forward to the upcoming adventure by planning it out.
Marvin The Tap-Dancing Horse (2000-2002)
Marvin the tap-dancing horse performs for Fast-Talking Jack’s carnival. Each episode chronicles light-hearted adventures with other characters like Elizabeth the Emotional Pig and Stripes the Tiger. Eddy Largo gets hired as a gofer and right-hand man for Fast-Talking Jack in the first episode, building bonds with the animal performers. The fun and imaginative setting makes for a wacky, unique show that stands the test of time.
What Kids Learn From Marvin the Tap-Dancing Horse: Children learn valuable concepts of teamwork, friendship, and self-confidence. Collaborating for one cause by using everyone’s strengths to balance out their weaknesses is something family does at home and co-workers do in the workplace. I’m instituting new habits for my eldest to help me put away dishes, make her bed, and fold her laundry so we can work as a team when it’s time to clean up the house.
Rainbow Fish (2000-2006)
I recall reading the Rainbow Fish series as a child, but I was unaware until now that there was a cartoon based on the books. The adventures of Rainbow Fish, his sister, Ruby, and their friends around Neptune Bay are highlighted throughout the cartoon series. They navigate attending school, growing up, and other social challenges. The vibrant animation captures humor and heart as Rainbow Fish and Ruby solve problems with friends like Sea Filly and Tug the seahorse.
What Kids Learn From Rainbow Fish: Dealing with bad days (“Rainbow’s Dental Dilemma”) and taking on new responsibilities (“Ruby’s Adventures In Babysitting”) helps build courage and character. Children also learn about kindness, sharing, and telling the truth. I always remind my children to share and be kind to others. For example, I had to remind my toddlers to take turns on the swings at the indoor playground with other children. My toddlers were taking long turns on the swings, and I had to remind them that other kids would also like to play on them.
George Shrinks (2000-2003)
George, age 10, faces a huge dilemma when he’s shrunken to a three-inch-tall human. Based on the beloved Canadian children’s book series, the television adaptation only lasted 14 episodes. This hidden cartoon gem incites quirky, out-of-this-world adventures unlike cartoons of its time. George becomes small after having a dream about it one night. His father had remarked that George was born the size of “knee high of a diaper pin”. Searching for long lost toys from decades ago (”Sunken Toys”) and snooping to unveil surprises (”If It Ain’t Broke) is amongst George’s misadventures with family and friends.
What Kids Learn From George Shrinks: Size doesn’t matter when trying new things. Living life to the fullest while practicing resourcefulness issues more than physical limitations. Determination, courage, and creativity are the best traits for solving any problem. My eldest daughter recently lost a couple of pieces to a new bean bag toss game her grandma gave her. Most of it was assembled, but the bottom parts to hold it up were missing. She and I collaborated to help her have fun with it by propping it against an outside chair so she and her siblings could still play the game.
Eckhart (2000-2002)
Follow the heartwarming adventures of a little mouse named Eckhart in this television series inspired by David Weale’s endearing children’s books. Solving a water drought (”Small Things Make A Big Difference”) and saving a French mouse from a shipwreck (”Came A Stranger”) are among Eckhart’s many endeavors with his companions. Eckhart strives to be as courageous as his father was in his journey to help others.
What Kids Learn From Eckhart: Facing challenges with resilience and bravery harvests self-confidence. Building friendships while practicing honesty and integrity is imperative for a successful life. My daughter’s first presentation to her 4-H peers made her nervous this past spring. The presentation was so she could earn a free county fair wristband. She chose to show her peers how to draw a unicorn head. One of the elder peers guided her on tips to deal with stage fright.
Timothy Goes To School (2000-2004)
My kids and I recently started watching this series in preparation for their return to school this fall. It evokes a mix of Franklin and Max and Ruby vibes when I revel in its beautiful animation style.
This endearing cartoon series is about a raccoon named Timothy and the adventures and challenges he and his friends face during their first days of kindergarten. The group learns about various childhood challenges, including making new friends, accepting one’s identity, and coping with changes.
What Kids Learn From Timothy Goes To School: It’s natural to be nervous when starting school for the first time. Throughout their educational career, kids will meet new peers and teachers who shape their personality, goals, and social circle. We found out that my eldest daughter has a few peers in her second-grade class who have been with her since kindergarten. She’s also with a couple of kids she’s never had class with before, which will open the door for her to make new friends.
Seven Little Monsters (2000-2003)
Maurice Sendak’s witty and childlike characters are brought to life in this cartoon series based on the books with the same name. Their names are based on numbers: One, Two, Three, and so on. Helping their mom get a nice nap while babysitting a family friend’s child (“Seven Monsters and a Baby”) and dealing with power outages (“Spooky”) are a couple of the siblings’ joint adventures. Living in a big family can be wild, fun, and challenging, and the Seven Little Monsters are no exception.
What Kids Learn From Seven Little Monsters: Collaborating with family is the best way to solve problems and keep making memories. Disagreements and challenges are normal in a family dynamic, regardless of the number of members within the unit. Communication and understanding bridge the gap with patience and kindness. It’s a reminder that teamwork and empathy are imperative when family members clash. This happens a lot with my eldest two, who are like night and day. My toddler son is hyperactive and usually wants to be with his elder sister. However, she prefers being alone. Setting boundaries has helped to minimize this issue, showing my son that there are times he can play with his elder sister but that it’s also okay for him to play independently.
Corduroy (2000-2001)
Don Freeman’s teddy bear character, Corduroy, is transformed into a cartoon series inspired by the timeless children’s books. Lisa is Corduroy’s best friend, but he has to stay a normal teddy bear when she’s around. He comes to life when Lisa is absent and embarks on adventures around his owner’s neighborhood. Cleaning the park of trash in “Clean Up” and getting separated from his best friend during a subway ride in “Lost and Found” are a couple of the many challenges in Corduroy.
What Kids Learn From Corduroy: Kids learn to tell the truth and explore their curiosities on a larger scale. Problems can be a huge undertaking, but a creative thought process can get anyone through any challenge. The friendship between Lisa and Corduroy showcases the importance of trust and loyalty in friendship. I encourage my eldest daughter to be truthful and kind to all her friends, even when discussing the most difficult topics.
Pelswick (2000-2002)
Pelswick Eggert is a wheelchair-bound teenager who views life through an optimistic lens, despite his condition. He deals with the same challenges as other teenagers. Pelswick balances school responsibilities with a social life while dealing with Boyd, who is the school bully. Goon and Ace are Pelswick’s best friends who respect him because of his fearlessness.
What Kids Learn From Pelswick: Children with disabilities can learn to overcome challenges while enjoying a fulfilling life. Kids without disabilities can learn to respect those who are born different from them. I always remind my children to be nice to everyone they meet, regardless of their differences. Kindness goes a long way in the world we currently live in.
Generation O! (2000-2001)
Molly O is the lead singer in a highly popular rock band. Every episode featured a song and a music video that assimilated with that episode’s theme. From being accused of plagiarizing songs in “You Copied” to getting blackmailed by senators because of bed wetting in “Damp Sheets”, Molly experiences showbiz challenges as a young rockstar. Fun fact: Suzanne Collins, one of the co-creators of this show, eventually wrote the The Hunger Games series.
What Kids Learn From Generation O!: Balancing Life’s Responsibilities with Fun Gets Hectic. Follow your passions in life while valuing and spending quality time with family and friends. I’ve been teaching my oldest daughter more about responsibility by having her make her bed in the morning and helping me put away her laundry and clean dishes. I encourage her to complete at least one art project at home per day so she can refine her craft and reach her goal of becoming an art teacher one day.
Action Man (2000-2002)
This CGI animated series isn’t to be confused with the 1995 version of the same name. It was the first Action Man adaptation to be animated with CGI, showcasing innovation in turn-of-the-century cartoons. Alex Mann is an extreme sports enthusiast and a member of Team Xtreme. He has AMP (Advanced Macro Probability) powers, allowing him to foresee the near future. Doctor X captures Alex and his long-time rival and closest friend, Brandon Caine, early in the series to do nanotechnology experiments on them. The pair must work together to escape being held as hostages while protecting their friends from the Doctor, who is also after them.
What Kids Learn From Action Man: Kids learn quick thinking, responsibility, and using their talents for good rather than evil. I always remind my eldest that her abilities can constantly be improved with constant dedication and training to learning new concepts. I ensure she’s not boastful about her talents by reminding her that she can always learn from someone else with more experience for improvement.
What About Mimi? (2000-2003)
Mimi Morton embarks on adolescent coming-of-age adventures during her junior high years. She navigates school drama alongside her best friends, Elaine and Russell, while enduring a dysfunctional family life. The main character endures a rivalry with an ex-friend from kindergarten, Sincerity. She also deals with her brother, Brad’s, snarky remarks about her big plans. Mimi’s vegan mother, Saffron, is always trying to push her and Brad to eat their vegetables, making dinner time a bit challenging.
What Kids Learn From What About Mimi?: Everyone is going to have their negative opinions about who you are and the goals you want to achieve. Staying true to oneself is the best avenue for building self-acceptance and confidence. When my oldest daughter comes and tells me someone said something mean to her during school, I remind her that those negative words aren’t valid. She knows who she is as a person, and I am so proud she stands up for what’s right.
A Miss Mallard Mystery (2000-2001)
Robert Quackenbush’s books with the same name come to life in this light-hearted cartoon series about a duck detective on a mission to solve as many mysteries as possible. Mallard’s nephew, Willard, works alongside her to solve these mysteries worldwide. Finding a lost friend in the Amazon in the first episode and discovering the Great Barrier Reef’s destruction in Australia during episode 6 are a couple of the many adventures that will have young viewers on their toes.
What Kids Learn From A Miss Mallard Mystery: Life involves critical thinking and observation skills to solve daily problems. Every clue contributes to the bigger picture when unveiling a misunderstood event. Utilizing patience and reasoning is essential for taking one step at a time while problem-solving. When my daughter gets frustrated with a difficult homework assignment, I remind her to thoroughly read the directions, think about what she’s learned, and apply that to completing the project.
The 2000s seem like such a long time ago now that we are over halfway through 2025. It’s surreal to me that some of the cartoons I used to watch as a kid are now available to stream for my children to enjoy. If you were a kid in 2000, I hope this cartoon list was like a blast from the past for you. Grab some popcorn and bring out your inner kid by watching one of these cartoons with your child(ren). Your inner child will thank you!
