The Best Educational YouTube Channels for Kids
YouTube can be an incredible educational resource — if you know where to look. We've compiled our favorite channels that combine learning with entertainment, perfect for curious kids of all ages.
Our Top Picks
These channels have been selected based on educational value, production quality, engagement, and overall appropriateness for young viewers. While we recommend using SafePlay with any YouTube content, these channels are known for being family-friendly.
Crash Course Kids
ScienceBite-sized science videos covering earth science, biology, chemistry, and physics with fun animations.
Best for ages: 8-12
National Geographic Kids
Nature & GeographyExplore the natural world with videos about animals, habitats, and amazing places around the globe.
Best for ages: 6-12
SciShow Kids
ScienceAnswers kids' science questions with engaging explanations and hands-on experiments.
Best for ages: 5-9
Art for Kids Hub
Art & CreativityStep-by-step drawing tutorials that the whole family can follow along with together.
Best for ages: 4-10
Numberblocks
MathMakes early math concepts fun and visual with animated number characters.
Best for ages: 3-6
Free School
History & ArtWell-produced videos on history, art history, and classical music appreciation.
Best for ages: 8-14
More Great Channels by Subject
Science & Nature
Brave Wilderness
Wildlife encounters and nature exploration (8+)
MinutePhysics
Quick explanations of physics concepts (10+)
The Brain Scoop
Behind-the-scenes at natural history museums (10+)
Deep Look
Stunning macro videos of insects and small creatures (All ages)
History & Social Studies
Extra History
Animated history lessons with engaging storytelling (10+)
Simple History
Quick animated videos on historical events (8+)
Liberty's Kids
American Revolution stories (6-10)
Math & Logic
Numberphile
Makes math fascinating for older kids (12+)
Math Antics
Clear explanations of math concepts (8-14)
Vi Hart
Creative math doodling and exploration (10+)
Reading & Language
Storyline Online
Celebrities reading children's books aloud (3-8)
KidsLearningTube
Educational songs and phonics (3-7)
Arts & Music
Art for Kids Hub
Drawing tutorials for the whole family (4-10)
The Piano Guys
Creative musical performances (All ages)
Music K-8
Music education and sing-alongs (5-13)
Tips for Using Educational YouTube
Watch together when possible
Some of the best learning happens when you can discuss what you're watching.
Create playlists
Curate videos in advance so kids have approved content ready to go.
Use SafePlay
Even educational channels can occasionally have unexpected language. Filtering ensures peace of mind.
Balance screen time
Even educational content should be balanced with offline activities.
Let kids explore their interests
If they're fascinated by dinosaurs, lean into that with related channels.
A Note on YouTube Kids
YouTube Kids is a great option for younger children, but it has limitations. The content library is smaller, and older kids often want access to the "regular" YouTube. SafePlay bridges this gap by letting you use all of YouTube while maintaining language-appropriate viewing.
Share Your Favorites
We're always looking for new channels to recommend. If your family has discovered an amazing educational channel we haven't mentioned, we'd love to hear about it! Reach out through our contact page or connect with us on social media.
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Tips and insights for families navigating the digital world safely.