PBS Kids has long been a trusted name in children’s educational programming, and their collection of movies and specials takes that mission even further. These feature-length and extended stories give young viewers the chance to dive deeper into the worlds of their favorite characters, from Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood to Wild Kratts and beyond.
Each movie is designed not just to entertain, but to reinforce meaningful lessons about science, literacy, social-emotional skills, history, and more. Whether your child is learning to manage big feelings, exploring the wonders of the natural world, or discovering the stories of real historical figures, PBS Kids movies offer screen time parents can feel good about.
Here is a comprehensive guide to every PBS Kids movie currently available to stream, including what each one teaches children, runtimes, and our recommended age range for each title.
Editor's Note: I use the term "movie" loosely here, some of these "movies" are shorter specials that are available for viewing on PBS KIDS, but since they list them in the movies section of the PBS KIDS website, and because they stand on their own, I've included those titles. Plus, the shorter specials are perfect for younger kids with shorter attention spans.
The Cyberchase Movie
When the villainous Hacker drills deep into Ecotopia in search of the legendary Emergency Reset Button, a powerful device that could reformat all of Cyberspace and put him in charge, it’s up to Jackie, Matt, and Inez, along with their cyber-bird companion Digit, to stop him. The CyberSquad races across Ecotopia’s vibrant habitats, working to protect the environment, restore the safety lock on Motherboard’s systems, and prevent Hacker from triggering the Reset Button before it’s too late. Along the way, they meet new friends, encounter Hacker’s bumbling sidekicks Buzz and Delete, and use math, logic, and teamwork to overcome every obstacle Hacker throws their way.
What The Cyberchase Movie Teaches Children: The Cyberchase movie reinforces mathematical thinking and problem-solving in real-world (and digital-world) contexts. Kids see how skills like logical reasoning, estimation, and strategic planning can be used to overcome seemingly impossible challenges. It also emphasizes the value of teamwork, perseverance, environmental stewardship, and using your brain rather than brute force to solve problems.
Runtime: 58 minutes
Age Range: 5 to 8 years old
Odd Squad: Odd Beginnings
This live-action movie takes viewers back to where it all started for the Odd Squad. When a mysterious case of oddness threatens to throw the world into chaos, two brand-new agents, Opal and Omar, must team up to investigate and restore order. As fresh recruits, they face challenges that require quick thinking, sharp math skills, and the courage to trust each other. From cracking number patterns to analyzing data to solve bizarre cases, the pair must prove they have what it takes to be official Odd Squad agents. Along the way, they discover that working together and trusting each other’s strengths is just as important as getting the math right.
What Odd Squad: Odd Beginnings Teaches Children: This movie uses humor and mystery to make math exciting. Children learn about number patterns, data analysis, and mathematical reasoning as they follow agents solving cases. It also teaches kids about collaboration, the courage to try new things, and the idea that everyone brings unique skills to a team — even when you’re just starting out.
Runtime: 45 minutes
Age Range: 5 to 8 years old
Super Why!: Around The World Adventure
When a magical story problem threatens to jumble up fairy tales from around the globe, Whyatt and the Super Readers must embark on their biggest reading adventure yet. The team, Whyatt (Super Why), Princess Pea (Princess Presto), Little Red Riding Hood (Wonder Red), and Pig (Alpha Pig), travels to different countries and encounters beloved stories from various cultures. At each stop, they must use their literacy superpowers, alphabet knowledge, spelling, word decoding, and reading comprehension to fix the stories and set things right. It’s a globe-trotting quest that celebrates both the power of reading and the richness of stories from around the world.
What Super Why!: Around the World Adventure Teaches Children: This movie builds foundational literacy skills, including letter recognition, phonics, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. By encountering stories from different cultures, children also gain an appreciation for global storytelling traditions and cultural diversity. The movie reinforces the show’s core message: that the answer to any problem can be found in a book.
Runtime: 26 minutes per episode (two episodes in the special)
Age Range: 3 to 6 years old
A Donkey Hodie New Year
Donkey Hodie and her best friends, Purple Panda, Duck Duck, and Bob Dog, are gearing up for the big New Year’s celebration in Someplace Else. Donkey Hodie is determined to make this the best New Year’s party ever, but things don’t go according to plan. Unexpected setbacks and mix-ups threaten to derail the festivities, and Donkey Hodie must learn to adapt, stay positive, and find creative solutions. With the help of her friends, she discovers that the best celebrations aren’t about everything being perfect; they’re about being together and making the most of what you have. The special captures the warmth of friendship and the excitement of new beginnings.
What A Donkey Hodie New Year Teaches Children: This special helps children build resilience and a growth mindset. It shows kids that when plans go wrong, flexibility and a positive attitude can save the day. It also models healthy friendship skills, asking for help, supporting one another, and celebrating together. The message that imperfection is okay is a powerful one for young perfectionists.
Runtime: 24minutes
Age Range: 3 to 5 years old
Nature Cat: Ocean Commotion
When Nature Cat and his adventurous pals, Hal the dog, Daisy the bunny, and Squeaks the mouse, head to the ocean for an exciting day of exploration, they discover that the marine environment is facing serious problems. From pollution to threats to sea creatures, the gang realizes the ocean needs their help. Nature Cat leads the charge on a mission to clean up the shore and protect marine wildlife, learning fascinating facts about ocean ecosystems along the way. Despite his well-known fear of water, Nature Cat bravely dives into the adventure, proving that caring about the environment means taking action even when it’s scary.
What Nature Cat: Ocean Commotion Teaches Children: This movie introduces kids to marine biology and ocean conservation in an accessible, exciting way. Children learn about ocean habitats, marine animals, and the real-world impact of pollution on sea life. It also models environmental stewardship, showing kids that even small actions like picking up trash can make a big difference, and demonstrates courage in the face of fear.
Runtime: 46 minutes
Age Range: 3 to 8 years old
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: Daniel Visits A New Neighborhood
Daniel Tiger is going on a big trip; he’s visiting a brand-new neighborhood for the first time! Everything is unfamiliar: new places, new faces, and new routines. At first, Daniel feels nervous and unsure about being in a place so different from his cozy home in the Neighborhood of Make-Believe. But with encouragement from his family and the friendly residents he meets along the way, Daniel gradually opens up to new experiences. He discovers that even when things look and feel different, others’ kindness can make any place feel welcoming. By the end of his visit, Daniel realizes that trying new things, even when they feel scary, can lead to wonderful discoveries and new friendships.
What Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: Daniel Visits a New Neighborhood Teaches Children: This movie directly addresses the anxiety children feel when facing unfamiliar situations — a new school, a new town, or meeting new people. It teaches kids coping strategies like taking deep breaths, talking about their feelings, and staying open-minded. The core lesson is that new experiences, while intimidating, often lead to positive outcomes when approached with curiosity and courage
Runtime: 46 minutes
Age Range: 2 to 4 years old
Accessibility Note: An ASL Version Is Also Available
Curious George Swings Into Spring
Spring has arrived, and Curious George is thrilled to explore all the changes happening in the world around him. When George decides his dachshund friend Hundley needs to catch some “spring fever,” his playful experiments take an unexpected turn, and Hundley goes missing! Determined to find his friend, George launches a hot air balloon and sets off on a high-flying adventure across the countryside. Along the way, his signature curiosity drives him to investigate how plants grow, why animals behave differently in spring, and what causes the seasons to change in the first place. With help from The Man with the Yellow Hat and a cast of springtime characters, George discovers that spring is nature’s way of starting fresh, and that friends always find their way back to each other.
What Curious George Swings into Spring Teaches Children: This special introduces young viewers to basic concepts in earth science and biology, seasonal changes, plant growth cycles, animal behaviors in spring, and weather patterns. George’s observational approach models the scientific method for kids: notice something, ask a question, investigate, and discover the answer. It also encourages children to get outside and explore the natural world around them with curiosity and wonder.
Of all the PBS KIDS movies on this list, Swings into Spring is the one we play most in our household, and all four of my children have loved the Curious George specials released over the years.
Runtime: 56 minutes
Age Range: 3 to 5 years old
Xavier Riddle And The Secret Museum: I Am Full Of Possibilities
Xavier, Yadina, and Brad embark on another time-traveling adventure through the Secret Museum, this time meeting inspiring historical figures who dared to dream big. The trio faces a present-day problem that feels overwhelming, and they need guidance from people who once faced similar self-doubt. Throughout their journey, they meet real historical figures who, as children, discovered their own passions and potential despite obstacles. Each encounter reveals that greatness doesn’t come from being perfect; it comes from believing in your own possibilities and having the courage to pursue them, even when the path isn’t clear.
What Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum: I Am Full of Possibilities Teaches Children: This movie teaches children that everyone, including them, has untapped potential. By meeting historical figures as kids, viewers learn that even the most accomplished people once started small and faced doubts. The movie encourages a growth mindset, self-belief, and the understanding that your background or circumstances don’t define what you can achieve.
Runtime: 54 minutes
Age Range: 4 to 7 years old
Arthur: D.W. And The Beastly Birthday
It’s D.W.’s birthday, and Arthur’s little sister has very big expectations. She’s been dreaming of the most spectacular birthday party ever, complete with a bouncy castle, a pony, and all of her demands met perfectly. But when things don’t go according to her elaborate plan, D.W. throws a royal fit. Through a series of humorous mishaps and heartfelt moments, D.W. gradually learns that birthday parties, and life in general, aren’t about getting everything you want. Her family and friends help her see that the people who show up to celebrate with you matter far more than the presents or the decorations.
What Arthur: D.W. and the Beastly Birthday Teaches Children: This movie tackles entitlement, disappointment, and gratitude, themes every young child encounters. D.W.’s journey teaches kids that unrealistic expectations often lead to frustration, and that learning to appreciate what you have is a key part of growing up. It also models how families navigate conflict with patience and love, even when a child is being difficult.
Runtime: 56 minutes
Age Range: 4 to 8 years old
Elinor Wonders Why: Adventure In Moose Mountain
Elinor, Olive, and Ari set off on an exciting camping trip to Moose Mountain, where every trail and meadow is bursting with scientific wonders. From discovering how different animals build their homes to understanding why certain plants grow in specific places, the trio’s curiosity is on full display. But when they encounter an unexpected challenge in the wilderness, they must use their observation skills and scientific thinking to find a solution. The adventure reminds them, and viewers, that nature has answers to so many of our questions, if only we slow down, look carefully, and ask “why?”
What Elinor Wonders Why: Adventure in Moose Mountain Teaches Children: This Elinor Wonders Why movie encourages scientific inquiry and a love of nature. Children learn about animal habitats, plant biology, and ecosystems through Elinor’s observational approach. The movie models how to ask good questions, form hypotheses, and test ideas, foundational science skills for young learners. It also promotes outdoor exploration and the idea that the natural world is the greatest classroom of all.
Runtime: 23 minutes
Age Range: 3 to 5 years old
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: Meet The New Baby
Big changes are coming to the Tiger family. Mom Tiger is having a new baby! Daniel is excited but also a little worried. What will it be like to share his parents’ attention? Will the baby like him? As the family prepares for the arrival, Daniel works through a range of emotions with help from his parents, friends, and the wise guidance of his neighborhood. When Baby Margaret finally arrives, Daniel discovers that being a big brother is both challenging and wonderful. The special follows Daniel through the adjustment period with warmth and honesty, acknowledging that welcoming a new sibling is one of the biggest transitions in a young child’s life.
What Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: Meet the New Baby Teaches Children: This movie is specifically designed to help children navigate the arrival of a new sibling, one of the most common and emotionally complex experiences in early childhood. It validates feelings of jealousy, worry, and excitement as all perfectly normal. Children learn strategies for coping with change, sharing attention, and discovering the joy of being an older sibling.
Runtime: 52 minutes
Age Range: 2 to 4 years old
Lyla In The Loop: When We Met Stu
This origin story reveals how Lyla Loops first met her lovable blue companion, Stu, whose name stands for “Something Truly Unique.” When Lyla and her big, boisterous family are busy delivering holiday cookies around their Philadelphia neighborhood, a mysterious fluffy blue creature appears. But when Stu goes missing during the chaos of the deliveries, Lyla must use her problem-solving skills to figure out where he went and how to bring him home. With help from her family and their computational thinking approach to challenges, Lyla retraces her steps, identifies patterns, and pieces together clues to reunite with her new best friend.
What Lyla in the Loop: When We Met Stu Teaches Children: This movie introduces foundational computational thinking, the kind of logical, step-by-step problem-solving that underpins computer science. Kids learn about sequencing, pattern recognition, and breaking big problems into smaller parts. It also celebrates family teamwork, the joy of helping your community, and the lesson that careful, methodical thinking can solve even the most confusing situations.
Runtime: 23 minutes
Age Range: 4 to 8 years old
Sid The Science Kid: The Movie
Sid and his friends, May, Gerald, and Gabriela, go on their biggest scientific adventure yet when they discover a real science mystery that needs solving. With the help of their enthusiastic teacher, Susie, and Sid’s curious family, the kids apply the scientific method to investigate, hypothesize, and experiment their way to the answer. The movie expands the world of Sid’s preschool into a larger playground for discovery, introducing new scientific concepts while staying true to the show’s hallmark style of kid-driven inquiry. Sid’s infectious enthusiasm for asking “Why?” and “How does that work?” drives the entire adventure forward.
What Sid the Science Kid: The Movie Teaches Children: This movie models the scientific method in a way preschoolers can understand and imitate. Children learn that science starts with a question, moves through observation and experimentation, and arrives at an evidence-based conclusion. It reinforces that being curious is a strength, that mistakes are part of the learning process, and that science is everywhere — not just in a laboratory.
Runtime: 83 minutes
Age Range: 3 to 6 years old
Molly Of Denali: Wise Raven And Old Crow
Molly Mabray and her family embark on an extraordinary journey from Alaska all the way to Old Crow, a Gwich’in village in the Yukon, Canada, the first time Molly has ever traveled outside her home state. Along the way, she uses maps, field guides, and other informational texts to navigate the terrain and learn about the deep cultural connections between Alaska Native and First Nations peoples. Meanwhile, back home in Qyah, Tooey and Trini stay behind and care for a baby moose that has been separated from its mother. Molly documents the entire experience for her video blog, connecting ancient storytelling traditions with modern communication and discovering how Native communities across borders share knowledge passed down through generations.
What Molly of Denali: Wise Raven and Old Crow Teaches Children: This movie builds informational text literacy, teaching kids how to use maps, guides, charts, and other nonfiction resources to find answers and navigate the world. It also provides meaningful exposure to Alaska Native and First Nations cultures, traditions, and storytelling. Children learn about respecting indigenous knowledge, the value of community wisdom, and how traditional stories carry important lessons across generations.
Runtime: 50 minutes
Age Range: 4 to 8 years old
Carl The Collector: A Fuzzytown Halloween
It’s Halloween in Fuzzytown, and Carl the raccoon, who is autistic and loves collecting, is excited to celebrate with his friends. As the town prepares for the big Halloween festivities, Carl faces sensory and social challenges brought on by the holiday’s noise, costumes, and unpredictable events. With support from his friends, including his fellow autistic friend Lotta, Carl finds his own way to enjoy Halloween that works for him. The special shows the Fuzzytown community coming together to make sure everyone feels included in the celebration, demonstrating that holidays can be enjoyed differently by different people.
What Carl the Collector: A Fuzzytown Halloween Teaches Children: This movie promotes inclusion, empathy, and understanding of neurodiversity. Children learn that autistic individuals may experience the world differently, particularly in terms of sensory input, and that being a good friend means accommodating those differences. It teaches kids that there’s no single “right way” to enjoy a holiday or celebration, and that communities are stronger when they make room for everyone.
Runtime: 23 minutes
Age Range: 4 to 8 years old
Donkey Hodie: Daniel Tiger Visits Someplace Else
It’s a very special day in Someplace Else, Daniel Tiger is coming to visit! Donkey Hodie is thrilled to show her friend around her neighborhood and introduce him to all her pals, including Purple Panda, Duck Duck, and Bob Dog. But hosting a visitor from a different neighborhood comes with unexpected challenges. Daniel and Donkey Hodie have different ways of doing things, and navigating those differences requires patience, communication, and flexibility from both of them. This crossover special brings together two beloved PBS Kids worlds and shows that even the best of friends have to work at understanding each other.
What Donkey Hodie: Daniel Tiger Visits Someplace Else Teaches Children: This crossover movie teaches children how to navigate social differences and be good hosts and guests. Kids learn that friends from different backgrounds may have different habits and preferences, and that’s perfectly fine. The movie models how to communicate openly, compromise, and find common ground, essential social skills for young children as they learn to build relationships beyond their immediate circle.
Runtime: 23 minutes
Age Range: 3 to 5 years old
Alma’s Way: Alma’s Summertime Musical
Alma and the kids of the Bronx are gearing up for their neighborhood’s annual summertime musical. From writing the script to designing costumes, Alma throws herself into every aspect of the production. But when her friends have ideas different from hers, Alma has to stop and consider whether her way is the only way. Through rehearsals, setbacks, and opening-night jitters, the group discovers that the best creative projects happen when everyone’s voice is heard. The special is filled with original music that blends Latin rhythms with kid-friendly melodies, celebrating the vibrant Puerto Rican culture of Alma’s neighborhood.
What Alma’s Way: Alma’s Summertime Musical Teaches Children: This movie teaches children about creative collaboration, open-mindedness, and the value of diverse perspectives. Alma’s “think-it-through” moments model metacognition, the ability to pause, reflect, and consider different viewpoints before making a decision. It also celebrates Latin music and Puerto Rican culture, giving children exposure to artistic traditions they may not encounter elsewhere.
Alma’s Way showcases the diversity in PBS KIDS movies, and this title is worth watching with your kids when summer arrives.
Runtime: 22 minutes
Age Range: 4 to 6 years old
Editor's Note: There is also a sing-along version of this PBS Kids movie special.
Elinor Wonders Why: A Wonderful Journey
Elinor, Olive, and Ari embark on a long journey that takes them far from home, traveling through diverse environments and encountering fascinating plants, animals, and natural phenomena along the way. Each new landscape sparks Elinor’s endless curiosity, leading to questions about why rivers flow the way they do, how different animals survive in different climates, and what connects all living things. When the group faces an unexpected challenge during their travels, they must use their powers of observation and scientific reasoning to find a solution. The journey reminds them that the natural world is full of wonders waiting to be discovered; you just have to ask “why?”
What Elinor Wonders Why: A Wonderful Journey Teaches Children: This movie fosters scientific curiosity and an appreciation for Earth’s diverse ecosystems. Children learn about different habitats, animal adaptations, and the interconnectedness of nature. Elinor’s questioning approach teaches kids that asking “why” is the first step to understanding the world. The movie also reinforces collaboration, patience, and the value of observing carefully before jumping to conclusions.
Runtime: 57 minutes
Age Range: 3 to 5 years old
Accessibility Note: An ASL Version Is Also Available
Xavier Riddle And The Secret Museum: I Am Madam President
Yadina has a big dream: she wants to become the President of the United States. But when someone tells her that no woman has ever held the office, she starts to wonder if it’s even possible. Xavier and Brad whisk her to the Secret Museum, where they travel through time to meet extraordinary women who achieved what others said couldn’t be done, including Olympic champion Jackie Joyner-Kersee, aviator Amelia Earhart, mountaineer Junko Tabei, and astronaut Sally Ride. Each historical figure shows Yadina that breaking barriers starts with believing in yourself and refusing to let others define your limits.
What Xavier Riddle and the Secret Movie: I Am Madam President Teaches Children: This movie is a powerful lesson in gender equality, ambition, and perseverance. Children learn about real women from history who shattered glass ceilings in sports, aviation, mountaineering, and space exploration. It teaches kids, especially girls, that there is no dream too big and no goal that is off-limits because of who they are. The message is clear: you can be the first to do something no one has done before.
Runtime: 54 minutes
Age Range: 4 to 7 years old
Acoustic Rooster And His Barnyard Band
Acoustic Rooster dreams of forming the greatest barnyard band the farm has ever seen. He sets out to recruit animal musicians from across the farm, each with their own unique sound and style. But getting a group of very different personalities to play in harmony proves to be a bigger challenge than Rooster expected. From creative clashes to stage fright to instruments that won’t cooperate, the road to their first big concert is filled with bumps. Through patience, encouragement, and a whole lot of practice, the barnyard band discovers that their differences are what make their music truly special.
What Acoustic Rooster and His Barnyard Band Teaches Children: This movie introduces children to music appreciation and the joy of creative expression. Kids learn that making music together requires listening, cooperation, and respect for others’ talents. It also teaches perseverance through practice, the courage to perform even when you’re nervous, and the beautiful idea that diversity, in music and in life, creates something richer than any one voice alone.
Runtime: 44 minutes
Age Range: 3 to 6 years old
A Donkey Hodie Road Trip
Donkey Hodie, Purple Panda, and their friends pile into the van for an exciting road trip across Someplace Else and beyond. The journey is packed with stops at unfamiliar places, unexpected detours, and challenges that test the group’s patience and problem-solving skills. Donkey Hodie is determined to stick to her carefully planned itinerary, but the road has other ideas. When things don’t go as expected, the group must adapt, try new approaches, and find joy in the unplanned moments. Along the way, they discover that sometimes the best adventures are the ones you didn’t plan for, and that the journey itself matters just as much as the destination.
What A Donkey Hodie Road Trip Teaches Children: This movie builds resilience, flexibility, and a growth mindset. Children learn that setbacks and surprises are a normal part of any journey, literal or figurative, and that adapting to change is a valuable life skill. It also models collaborative problem-solving and the idea that letting go of rigid expectations can open the door to unexpected fun and discovery.
Runtime: 23 minutes
Age Range: 3 to 5 years old
Wild Kratts: Activate Kid Power!
The Kratt brothers, Martin and Chris, call on kids everywhere to activate their creature powers and help protect animals in danger. When a series of wildlife emergencies strikes across multiple habitats, the Wild Kratts team realizes they can’t do it alone. They need the help of “Wild Kratts Kids” around the world to step up and take action. From rescuing endangered species to restoring damaged habitats, this movie takes viewers on a globe-trotting wildlife adventure that emphasizes the power of collective action. The Kratts suit up in their Creature Power Suits and dive into the animal kingdom with their signature blend of real science and animated adventure.
What Wild Kratts: Activate Kid Power! Teaches Children: This movie teaches kids about wildlife conservation and the real-world impact humans have on animal habitats. Children learn about endangered species, ecosystems, and biodiversity. Most importantly, it empowers young viewers with the message that they are not too small to make a difference, that kids can take meaningful action to protect the natural world through everyday choices and environmental awareness.
Runtime: 47 minutes
Age Range: 4 to 8 years old
Nature Cat: The Nature-Tastic Four Movie
Nature Cat, Hal, Daisy, and Squeeks transform into superheroes, the Nature-Tastic Four, when a major environmental crisis threatens the great outdoors. Armed with nature-themed superpowers, the team must draw on their scientific and natural-world knowledge to save the day. From understanding weather systems to protecting wildlife corridors, each member of the team contributes their unique strengths to the mission. The movie is packed with action, humor, and real nature facts woven into every scene, showing kids that understanding the natural world is a superpower in itself.
What Nature Cat: The Nature-Tastic Four Movie Teaches Children: This movie teaches children about environmental science, weather, and ecosystems through an exciting superhero narrative. Kids learn that knowledge about the natural world gives you the power to protect it. It also reinforces teamwork, the value of each person’s unique abilities, and the idea that being a steward of the environment is genuinely heroic.
Nature Cat has made its way onto many of our children’s entertainment lists, and this PBS KIDS movie and its focus on science and our environment adds a nice splash of green to the list.
Runtime: 53 minutes
Age Range: 3 to 8 years old
Ready Jet Go!: Back to Bortron 7
Jet Propulsion and his Earth friends, Sean and Sydney, blast off on an incredible journey back to Jet’s home planet, Bortron 7. For Sean and Sydney, it’s their first trip to an alien world, and everything is wonderfully strange and different. They experience Bortron 7’s unique gravity, atmosphere, and geography while learning about what makes each planet in a solar system unique. But when a problem threatens their return trip to Earth, the kids must use their understanding of space science, orbital mechanics, fuel, and planetary conditions to find a safe way home. It’s a thrilling space adventure grounded in real astronomy.
What Ready Jet Go!: Back to Bortron 7 Teaches Children: This movie introduces children to astronomy and planetary science in a fun, narrative-driven way. Kids learn about what makes planets different, gravity, atmosphere, distance from a star, and how space travel works. It also teaches problem-solving under pressure and the idea that scientific knowledge has real, practical applications. The movie celebrates both the wonder of space exploration and the appreciation of our own planet Earth.
Runtime: 52 minutes
Age Range: 3 to 8 years old
Odd Squad: World Turned Odd
When Agents Olympia, Otis, and Oona accidentally alter history during a time-traveling mission, they return to find their world completely changed. In this strange new timeline, the villainous Odd Todd has taken over Odd Squad, and nothing makes sense anymore. The agents must navigate this topsy-turvy reality, figure out exactly what they changed in the past, and use their mathematical skills to set things right. With the rules of logic seemingly broken, they have to think more creatively than ever before. The movie raises the stakes of a typical Odd Squad case to epic, world-saving proportions while keeping its signature humor and math-driven mystery-solving intact.
What Odd Squad: World Turned Odd Teaches Children: This movie challenges children to think flexibly about math and logic. When the normal rules are disrupted, kids see that mathematical thinking is adaptable and powerful even in unusual situations. It reinforces problem-solving, pattern recognition, and deductive reasoning. The movie also teaches that persistence matters; when your first approach doesn’t work, try another angle rather than giving up.
Runtime: 44 minutes
Age Range: 5 to 8 years old
Ready Jet Go!: One Small Step
Inspired by the historic Apollo 11 moon landing, Jet, Sean, Sydney, and their friend Mindy embark on their own lunar adventure. When the kids learn about Neil Armstrong’s famous “one small step,” they’re motivated to attempt something they’ve never done before, a trip to the Moon. Along the way, they learn about the real history of the space race, the science behind rocket propulsion, and the incredible teamwork it took to put humans on the Moon. Sean, who dreams of being an astronaut, is especially moved by the courage and determination of the Apollo astronauts. The movie blends real NASA history with the show’s animated adventure to create an inspiring story about reaching for the stars.
What Ready Jet Go!: One Small Step Teaches Children: This movie teaches kids about the history of space exploration, particularly the Apollo 11 mission. Children learn real science concepts, including gravity, rocket propulsion, and lunar geography. Beyond the science, it instills lessons about courage, teamwork, and the power of human ambition. The central message, that every great achievement starts with one small step, encourages children to pursue their own big dreams one step at a time.
If your kid(s) love space, this PBS KIDS movie will likely be near the top of their own list, just as it is for my 11-year-old son and my 4-year-old daughter.
Runtime: 42 minutes
Age Range: 3 to 8 years old
The Okee Dokee Brothers: Brambletown
In this musical special, the Okee Dokee Brothers, a Grammy-winning folk duo, bring their signature blend of outdoor adventure and original music to the fictional world of Brambletown. The story follows a community of woodland animal characters who must come together when their town faces a challenge that threatens to divide them. Through song and cooperation, the residents of Brambletown learn that their differences are actually their greatest strength. The special features original folk songs that celebrate nature, community, and the joy of working together, all set against the backdrop of a charming woodland town filled with personality.
What The Okee Dokee Brothers: Brambletown Teaches Children: This musical special teaches children about community, cooperation, and the power of music to bring people together. Kids learn that healthy communities are built on mutual respect and collaboration, even when people disagree. The folk music introduces children to acoustic instruments and songwriting, while the nature-themed setting encourages an appreciation for the outdoors. The core lesson: our differences make us stronger when we choose to work together.
Runtime: 34 minutes
Age Range: 3 to 7 years old
Wild Kratts: Our Blue And Green World
Martin and Chris Kratt take viewers on a sweeping journey across Earth’s most important ecosystems, from lush green forests to deep blue oceans. When the Kratts discover that these interconnected habitats are under threat, they set out to show kids exactly how forests, oceans, rivers, and grasslands depend on each other. Using their creature power suits, the brothers dive into the ocean depths and trek through dense jungles, encountering incredible animals at every turn. The movie paints a vivid picture of Earth as a single, interconnected living system where every creature and habitat plays a vital role.
What Wild Kratts: Our Blue and Green World Teaches Children: This movie teaches children about ecology, biodiversity, and the interconnectedness of Earth’s ecosystems. Kids learn that forests and oceans are not separate; they are linked in a web of life that supports all living things. It introduces concepts like food chains, habitat conservation, and the impact of human activity on the environment. The big takeaway is that protecting one part of nature helps protect everything else.
Runtime: 47 minutes
Age Range: 4 to 8 years old
Cyberchase: Weather Or Not
When Hacker hatches a scheme to manipulate weather patterns in Cyberspace, the CyberSquad must race against time to understand the science of weather and stop him. Jackie, Matt, Inez, and Digit dive into the world of meteorology, learning about temperature, air pressure, precipitation, and climate systems. The stakes are high; Hacker’s weather manipulation could throw entire cyber-worlds into chaos. The team uses data collection, graph reading, and mathematical analysis to track weather patterns, predict Hacker’s next move, and ultimately restore balance. It’s a thrilling adventure that turns weather science into an edge-of-your-seat mystery.
What Cyberchase: Weather or Not Teaches Children: This movie teaches children about meteorology, climate science, and environmental awareness. Kids learn how weather works, including concepts like air pressure, temperature changes, and precipitation cycles, and how scientists use data and math to predict weather patterns. It also touches on the real-world importance of understanding climate and the consequences of disrupting natural systems.
Runtime: 49 minutes
Age Range: 5 to 8 years old
WordGirl: The Rise of Miss Power
When a powerful new villain named Miss Power arrives in the city, she initially appears to be a hero, stronger, faster, and more capable than even WordGirl herself. At first, WordGirl is thrilled to have a mentor and ally. But Miss Power’s true nature soon reveals itself: she’s a bully who uses intimidation, name-calling, and cruelty to get her way. As Miss Power’s influence spreads and even the city’s other villains cower in fear, WordGirl must find the courage to stand up to someone far more powerful than herself. She learns that true strength isn’t about superpowers — it’s about standing up for what’s right, even when you’re afraid.
What WordGirl: The Rise of Miss Power Teaches Children: This movie delivers one of the most important anti-bullying messages in children’s television. Kids learn to recognize bullying behavior, intimidation, name-calling, manipulation, and using power to control others. WordGirl’s journey teaches children that standing up to a bully takes tremendous courage, and that true heroism means defending others even at personal cost. It also explores the difference between genuine strength and the abuse of power, a nuanced lesson for young viewers.
My wife is a linguistic so this PBS KIDS movie was an obvious watch in our household and as fans of the series, it has been a big hit with our kiddos.
Runtime: 54 minutes
Age Range: 5 to 8 years old
Pinkalicious & Peterrific: A Pinkaperfect Birthday
It’s Pinkalicious’s birthday, and she has one wish: to make it the most pinkatastic celebration ever. She plans every detail in her signature shade of pink, from decorations to her dream birthday cake. But when things start going hilariously off-script, surprise guests, unexpected weather, and creative mishaps, Pinkalicious has to decide whether to let the imperfections ruin her day or embrace the unexpected. Her brother Peter, her friends, and her family rally around her, turning every “disaster” into something even better than she originally planned. The special is a colorful, musical celebration of creativity, family, and the joy of going with the flow.
What Pinkalicious & Peterrific: A Pinkaperfect Birthday Teaches Children: This special teaches kids that perfection isn’t necessary for happiness. Children learn that flexibility and a positive attitude can transform setbacks into something wonderful. It also celebrates creative expression, art, music, and imagination as core parts of a joyful life. The lesson that the best moments are often unplanned helps young viewers build emotional resilience and let go of rigid expectations.
Runtime: 46 minutes
Age Range: 3 to 6 years old
Alma’s Way: Alma Goes To Puerto Rico
Alma Rivera is thrilled to travel to Puerto Rico to visit her family and explore the island where her parents grew up. From the vibrant streets and colorful buildings to the tropical landscapes and delicious food, Alma experiences Puerto Rican culture firsthand. She meets her great-grandmother, the original Alma she was named after, and learns about her family’s history, traditions, and the strong roots that connect them across generations. Along the way, Alma faces a challenge that requires her to think things through and make an important decision, drawing on both the wisdom of her elders and her own good judgment.
What Alma’s Way: Alma Goes to Puerto Rico Teaches Children: This movie celebrates Puerto Rican culture, heritage, and the importance of knowing where you come from. Children learn about family traditions, intergenerational connections, and cultural pride. Alma’s decision-making process models critical thinking and self-awareness for young viewers. The movie also teaches kids that understanding your roots and your family’s story is a source of strength and identity.
Runtime: 46 minutes
Age Range: 4 to 6 years old
Accessibility Note: An ASL Version Is Also Available
Molly Of Denali: Molly And The Great One
Molly Mabray faces her biggest outdoor challenge yet, an adventure that leads her toward Denali, the highest peak in North America. Along with her best friend Tooey and her dog Suki, Molly uses maps, navigational tools, and traditional Alaska Native knowledge to navigate the vast Alaskan wilderness. The journey tests her physical endurance, her problem-solving skills, and her understanding of the land. Molly draws on the wisdom of her community and the informational resources at her disposal to navigate obstacles, while also learning more about the deep cultural significance of the great mountain to Alaska Native peoples.
What Molly of Denali: Molly and the Great One Teaches Children: This movie reinforces informational text literacy — the ability to use maps, charts, field guides, and other nonfiction resources to solve real problems. Children also learn about Alaska’s geography, wildlife, and the cultural significance of Denali to indigenous communities. The movie teaches resilience, resourcefulness, and respect for both the natural world and the cultural knowledge of Native peoples.
Runtime: 52 minutes
Age Range: 4 to 8 years old
Dinosaur Train: Submarine Adventure
Buddy, Tiny, Shiny, and Don board the Dinosaur Train for an underwater expedition unlike anything they’ve experienced before. When the train converts into a submarine, the young dinosaurs plunge beneath the surface of an ancient ocean to explore prehistoric marine life. They encounter massive marine reptiles, ancient fish, and other creatures that lived alongside the dinosaurs millions of years ago. Guided by the ever-knowledgeable Mr. Conductor, the kids learn about the differences between land and sea ecosystems during the Mesozoic Era. It’s a thrilling deep-sea adventure that brings paleontology to life in a whole new way.
What Dinosaur Train: Submarine Adventure Teaches Children: This movie teaches children about paleontology and marine biology, specifically the prehistoric creatures that lived in Earth’s ancient oceans. Kids learn that dinosaurs shared their world with an incredible array of marine life, expanding their understanding of natural history beyond land-dwelling species. It also introduces concepts such as ocean habitats, adaptation, and the scientific classification of species.
Runtime: 51 minutes
Age Range: 3 to 6 years old
Wild Kratts: Back In Creature Time
When Martin and Chris discover a way to travel back in time, they jump at the chance to meet extinct animals that no living person has ever seen. Their journey takes them face-to-face with the dodo bird on the island of Mauritius and the Tasmanian tiger in the wilds of Australia, two species lost to history. The brothers witness firsthand what these incredible creatures were like and learn the heartbreaking stories of how and why they disappeared. The adventure becomes a powerful lesson in conservation as the Kratts realize that the animals alive today could face the same fate if humans don’t take action. It’s one of the most emotionally impactful Wild Kratts stories ever told.
What Wild Kratts: Back in Creature Time Teaches Children: This movie teaches children about extinction, endangered species, and the human impact on wildlife. By meeting animals that no longer exist, kids gain a visceral understanding of what is lost when a species disappears forever. It’s a powerful motivator for conservation awareness, teaching children that protecting today’s animals is urgent and important. The movie also introduces concepts of biodiversity and habitat preservation.
Runtime: 51 minutes
Age Range: 4 to 8 years old
Pinkalicious & Peterrific: Cupid Calls It Quits
It’s Valentine’s Day in Pinkville, and Pinkalicious is excited to spread love and kindness everywhere. But when Cupid himself decides he’s had enough and quits his job, Valentine’s Day is thrown into chaos, people stop being kind, sharing is forgotten, and the spirit of the holiday fades away. Pinkalicious and Peter take it upon themselves to show Cupid, and everyone else, that love and kindness aren’t things that come from a magical arrow. They come from inside each of us, every single day. Through creative acts of kindness and heartfelt gestures, the siblings restore the spirit of Valentine’s Day and remind their community what the holiday is truly about.
What Pinkalicious & Peterrific: Cupid Calls It Quits Teaches Children: This special teaches children that kindness and love are not reserved for one holiday — they are everyday choices. Kids learn that small, thoughtful gestures can have a big impact on the people around them. It also reinforces the idea that you don’t need magic or special occasions to be kind; the ability to brighten someone’s day lives inside every child.
Runtime: 48 minutes
Age Range: 3 to 6 years old
Dinosaur Train: What’s At The Center Of The Earth?
Buddy and his family board the Dinosaur Train for a truly underground adventure, a journey toward the center of the Earth! As the train burrows deeper and deeper beneath the surface, the young dinosaurs learn about the layers of the Earth: the crust, the mantle, and the core. Mr. Conductor guides them through a geological wonderland of underground caves, volcanic activity, and mineral formations. Along the way, Buddy’s natural curiosity about his own origins and the history of the planet leads to fascinating discoveries about how the Earth was formed and why it continues to change. It’s a journey that turns geology into a thrilling expedition.
What Dinosaur Train: What’s at the Center of the Earth? Teaches Children: This movie introduces children to Earth science and geology in an engaging, adventure-driven way. Kids learn about the structure of the Earth, its layers, tectonic activity, and geological formations. It also touches on concepts like volcanoes, minerals, and how the Earth changes over time. The movie encourages children to be curious about what lies beneath the surface, both literally and figuratively.
Runtime: 52 minutes
Age Range: 3 to 6 years old
Word World: Rocket Saves The Day
Based on the beloved Rocket book series by Tad Hills, this PBS Kids movie follows Rocket, an enthusiastic young pup who loves to read, as he sets off on his biggest adventure yet. When the mischievous Letter Pest threatens to scramble all the words in his world, Rocket and his best friend Little Yellow Bird must journey through Letter Land, the Sound Slide, and the Reading Woods to set things right. Along the way, Rocket uses everything he’s learned about letters, sounds, and words to overcome each challenge. With courage, curiosity, and the power of reading at his side, Rocket proves that books, and the words inside them, really can save the day.
What Rocket Saves the Day Teaches Children: This movie reinforces foundational literacy skills, letter recognition, phonics, vocabulary, and word building, in a story that makes reading feel like an adventure. Children see that letters and sounds are the building blocks of words, and words have the power to solve problems and bring people together. It’s an early literacy tool that celebrates the joy of learning to read and encourages pre-readers to actively engage with letters and sounds.
Runtime: 46 minutes
Age Range: 2 to 5 years old
Cyberchase: Space Waste Odyssey
The CyberSquad faces an out-of-this-world environmental crisis when they discover that space in Cyberspace is being polluted with waste and debris. Hacker, predictably, is behind the mess, dumping garbage into the digital cosmos with no regard for the consequences. Jackie, Matt, Inez, and Digit must figure out how to track, measure, and clean up the waste using math and science. They explore concepts like volume, weight, and recycling as they devise a plan to restore the cyber-environment. The movie draws clear parallels to real-world issues of pollution and waste management, making environmental science feel urgent and relevant.
What Cyberchase: Space Waste Odyssey Teaches Children: This movie teaches children about environmental responsibility, waste management, and the math behind measuring and reducing waste. Kids learn about real-world concepts such as recycling, pollution, and the importance of caring for shared spaces. The mathematical elements, measurement, volume, and data analysis, give children practical tools for understanding environmental science.
Runtime: 49 minutes
Age Range: 5 to 8 years old
Dinosaur Train: Nature Trackers Adventure Camp
Buddy, Tiny, and their friends head to Nature Trackers Adventure Camp, where young dinosaurs learn to explore the prehistoric world like real nature scientists. Under the guidance of camp counselors, the kids go on hikes, track animals, study plants, and learn survival skills, all through a paleontological lens. Each activity teaches them about a different aspect of the natural world, from identifying animal tracks to understanding food webs. Buddy’s unique perspective as a T. rex adopted into a Pteranodon family adds heart to the story, as he continues to discover where he fits in the world while celebrating what makes him different.
What Dinosaur Train: Nature Trackers Adventure Camp Teaches Children: This movie encourages outdoor exploration and nature literacy. Children learn real-world nature skills, animal tracking, plant identification, and understanding ecosystems, framed through the lens of prehistoric life. It also teaches social-emotional lessons about belonging, identity, and embracing your differences. The camp setting reinforces the value of hands-on, experiential learning in the natural world.
Runtime: 52 minutes
Age Range: 3 to 6 years old
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: Won’t You Sing Along With Me?
Daniel Tiger invites viewers to join him for a very special musical celebration in the Neighborhood of Make-Believe. Featuring beloved songs from the series, many inspired by the wisdom of Mister Rogers, this movie is part sing-along, part story, and all heart. Daniel and his friends revisit some of their most important lessons through music: managing feelings, trying new things, being kind to others, and dealing with disappointment. Each song is paired with an on-screen prompt encouraging children to sing along, turning the movie into an interactive experience that reinforces the social-emotional strategies Daniel Tiger is known for.
What Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: Won’t You Sing Along with Me? Teaches Children: This musical movie reinforces the social-emotional learning that is central to Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood. Through song, children revisit strategies for managing anger, coping with sadness, sharing, and being a good friend. The sing-along format supports memory and repetition, two key ways young children internalize lessons. It’s a joyful reminder that the strategies kids learn from Daniel Tiger are tools they can carry with them wherever they go.
Runtime: 24 minutes
Age Range: 2 to 4 years old
All of these PBS KIDS movies are available to watch for free on the PBS KIDS website.
