Educational shows, videos, and documentaries can enhance learning by reinforcing skills (like reading, math, science, history, and critical thinking), building background knowledge, and sparking curiosity that leads to hands-on projects, library books, and deeper discussions.
Quick tip: After an episode, ask 2 questions: “What did you learn?” and “What do you wonder now?” Then do one small extension (draw it, map it, look up 3 new vocabulary words, or write a 5-sentence summary).
Note: Netflix availability and maturity ratings can vary by region and change over time—if you don’t see a title, it may not be available in your area right now.
Age 0–4
Interactive lessons invite kids to learn, play, sing, and grow while practicing letters, numbers, colors, shapes, animals, and more.
In Numberland, cheerful blocks work, play, and sing as they explore math concepts in a playful, visual way.
Five inquisitive creatures track down answers to big kid questions—like how night happens or why we brush our teeth.
Wyatt and the Super Readers solve problems by diving into classic stories like “Hansel and Gretel” and more.
Baby animal friends count, compare shapes, and spot patterns—using math and songs to solve problems.
The StoryBots join the Inspiration4 mission as they search for answers to kids’ questions about space.
Age 5–8
The Octonauts expand beyond the sea and protect habitats and animals at risk—with new rides and new friends.
Curious friends explore foods and ingredients from around the world, learning where food comes from and how it’s used.
A master thief who uses her skills for good travels the world, foiling V.I.L.E.’s plans with help from her sidekicks.
Age 9–12
From germs and emotions to social media and more, this series explains the science of your world in a relatable way.
The Ghost Club travels around Los Angeles interviewing ghosts, solving problems, and learning about the city’s history.
A live-action sketch comedy show that brings famous names in history to life, based on the best-selling book series.
Learn basic civics concepts through energetic lessons and songs featuring some of the biggest names in music.
Host Emily Calandrelli makes STEAM fun with activities, demonstrations, and experiments designed to make you think.
Age 13–15
This sweeping series traces the story of the universe across billions of years—and its link to life on Earth.
Science journalist Latif Nasser explores surprising ways we’re connected to each other, the world, and the universe.
From dreaming to anxiety disorders, this series digs into what’s happening inside your head and how the brain works.
Infographics and archival footage deliver bite-size lessons on breakthroughs, social movements, and world-changing discoveries.
Explores how voting works in the U.S., why not every vote is treated equally, and what reforms might look like.
Examines the COVID-19 pandemic, efforts to combat it, and ways to manage its mental health toll.
Age 16–18
A Vox series that digs into wide-ranging topics—like cryptocurrency, why diets fail, and the world of K-pop.
Short episodes break down real-life money topics (like saving for retirement and other everyday financial realities).
A documentary-drama hybrid about the human impact of social networking, featuring tech experts sounding the alarm.
Investigates bias in algorithms after Joy Buolamwini uncovered flaws in facial recognition technology.
Go inside the minds of innovative designers across disciplines and see how design shapes everyday life.
Scholars, activists, and politicians analyze the criminalization of African Americans and the U.S. prison boom.
Bill Nye hosts guests and experts to explore scientific issues that affect everyday life.
One hundred people participate in playful experiments exploring age, happiness, and other aspects of being human.
Florida scholarship note (PEP + FES-UA): streaming services like Netflix may be eligible
Step Up For Students’ current purchasing guides include streaming services in eligible categories (with conditions). Always follow your Scholarship Funding Organization’s most current purchasing guide and keep documentation.
- PEP: listed under Educational Software & Subscriptions (includes “video/TV/online streaming services”).
- FES-UA: listed under Internet Resources (includes streaming services) and must be age-appropriate.
- Best practice: save receipts, note the educational purpose (what skill/subject it supports), and be ready to show that it’s for the student’s learning use.
Official guides (Step Up For Students):
PEP Purchasing Guide (PDF)
•
FES-UA Purchasing Guide (search on official Help Center)