Netflix Shows You Can Watch With Your Kids (and Actually Enjoy!)

No, "Caillou" is not on the list.

If you're like me, you're not a big fan of suffering through awful kids' programs like "Barney" and "Thomas and Friends." But if you're willing to keep an open mind, here are a few shows that can keep kids and parents entertained (without you wanting to tear your hair out).

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic

Via cdn.playbuzz.com

No, this is not a show just for little girls and bronies. It's actually a very clever, humorous, and well-written show with good stories lots of pop culture references for adults. And you just might learn something about friendship for yourself!

The Clone Wars

Via screenrant.com

This is one for Star Wars fans, and it will be a great gateway to introduce your kids to the franchise.

Sofia the First

Via vignette1.wikia.nocookie.net

This is a good one for any kid who wants to be a princess. I was skeptical at first, already sick to death of princess tropes, but after watching a few episodes with my daughter, I was pleasantly surprised. It encourages kids to be themselves, and to be brave in the face of adversity. The animation is nice, too.

The Magic School Bus

Via scholastic.com

This blast from the past will be a fun watch for you and your kids! You can relive your favorites while actually getting your children to watch something both entertaining and educational.

Animaniacs

Via asmac.org

This show was my generation's "Loony Toons," full of zany characters, countless pop culture references, and even some pretty risque jokes (ones that you may not have gotten as a kid, but you'll definitely get them now).

Pee-Wee's Playhouse

Via assets.pcmag.com

Okay, Pee-Wee may not be for everyone... especially if you are adverse to lots of craziness and kids screaming every time the "secret word" is mentioned. But this one was a big nostalgic kick for me, and my kid loves it, too.

Bill Nye the Science Guy

Via cdn2.hercampus.com

"BILL! BILL! BILL! BILL! BILL!"

('nuff said)

Pokemon

Via cdn.pastemagazine.com

Pokemon is a classic, its popularity somehow spanning two generations. There are a few different series on Netflix at the moment, including "Indigo League," "XY", and "XYZ," along with two movies. My personal favorite is "Indigo League," but then I'm pretty old school.

Ruby Gloom

Via pinterest.com

This little gem comes from Canada, a show about a girl who lives in a creepy castle with all of her friends. They may look a big ghoulish, but you'll never meet a group of more upbeat and fun-loving characters (okay, except for maybe Misery, but with a name like that, what do you expect?)

Phineas and Ferb

Via lumiere-a.akamaihd.net

The first time I watched the show was when it came on Netflix, and honestly I didn't have any idea what to expect. Each episode is pretty formulaic, but increasingly entertaining and creative. (On a personal note, I once worked with a girl who used to date the voice actor for Phineas)

Hopefully one or more of these suggestions will help keep you and your kids from arguing what to watch on Netflix. Good luck and enjoy!