Cartoons aren’t just for children anymore. Netflix has become a popular place for family-friendly animated shows that both kids and adults can enjoy. The streaming service has created many highly-rated original cartoons, some specifically for young children – which parents might find themselves watching over and over again!
As a huge animation fan, I’ve always loved those cartoons that somehow appeal to everyone – not just kids. It’s rare to find a show that parents genuinely enjoy alongside their children. These aren’t just age-appropriate; they’re genuinely clever, with interesting stories and a creative spark that sets them apart from typical kids’ fare. They really go beyond being ‘just cartoons,’ you know?
30. Ninjago (2011-2022)
Ninjago is a fantastic, family-friendly cartoon available on Netflix (though currently only two seasons). It’s enjoyable for viewers of all ages, offering bright visuals and interesting characters that kids will love, along with valuable life lessons.
As a fan, I think what makes Ninjago so great for both kids and adults is the sense of adventure and pure fun it delivers. Plus, it’s LEGO! Everyone loves LEGO, and seeing that world come to life on screen is always exciting. What really sets this movie apart from other LEGO films is that it’s not just a parody – it actually has a really well-developed and engaging story that keeps you hooked from beginning to end.
29. Rise Of The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2018-2020)
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have been reimagined in many different ways over the years. A particularly strong recent version is the animated series Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, which originally aired on Nickelodeon. It’s packed with exciting action that appeals to a wide audience.
Not only is the show great, but families can enjoy it knowing there’s a satisfying conclusion. A spin-off movie ties up all loose ends, and you can find it streaming on Netflix.
28. Skylanders Academy (2016-2018)
Based on the popular Skylanders video games, Skylanders Academy is an animated series that first appeared on Netflix in 2016. It’s designed to appeal to young children with its playful characters and fast-paced adventures.
This cartoon not only teaches kids valuable lessons about believing in themselves and understanding their feelings, but it’s also genuinely funny, making it a great choice for family viewing on Netflix. Many parents will also enjoy recognizing Norm Macdonald’s voice as the character Glumshanks.
27. Tomb Raider: The Legend Of Lara Croft (2024-2025)
While Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft is geared towards a slightly older audience, it’s still enjoyable for everyone. It includes some violence, which is common in this series. The show, which consists of two seasons, is based on the popular Tomb Raider franchise.
The new animated series, Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft, continues the story of Lara Croft, now voiced by Hayley Atwell. It’s set after the events of the previous three games and has been well-received by critics.
26. Arcane: League Of Legends (2021-2024)
While Arcane: League of Legends is best suited for teenagers and older, it can be a good choice for families watching together. Parents may need to explain some of the more mature themes to younger viewers. Both seasons of the show have been highly praised.
As a huge animation fan, I’ve been blown away by Arcane. It’s based on a really popular game, and while it deals with mature stuff like love, loss, and conflict, it doesn’t go overboard with the graphic violence. Honestly, it feels a lot like a PG-13 movie, which I think makes it perfect for older kids and teens – and adults will love it too!
25. Kipo And The Age Of Wonderbeasts (2020)
Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts is a fantastic, family-friendly cartoon available on Netflix. It’s easy for kids to follow with its bright visuals and enjoyable characters, but it also features a surprisingly complex story that will appeal to older viewers, including teens and adults.
This show takes place in a future where animals have developed special powers and live among us, while most people live below the surface. It’s visually engaging and features imaginative characters, making it enjoyable for both kids and adults. All three seasons were released in a single year – 2020.
24. Carmen Sandiego (2019-2021)
Carmen Sandiego first appeared in the video game Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego in 1985. Since then, she’s become popular in comic books, books, and TV shows. In 2019, Netflix released its own animated series based on the character.
As a kid of the ’90s, I was thrilled to see Carmen Sandiego return on Netflix in January 2019! It had been nearly two decades since we last saw the world-traveling thief, and this revival really captured the spirit of the original series. Over four seasons and 32 episodes, the show successfully introduced Carmen to a whole new generation of kids, while also giving those of us who grew up with her a serious dose of nostalgia. It’s a fun, family-friendly cartoon that I definitely recommend checking out.
23. Scott Pilgrim Takes Off (2023)
While the movie Scott Pilgrim vs. The World was mostly for teens and adults, the new animated series, Scott Pilgrim Takes Off, is enjoyable for all ages. Some of the humor might be lost on younger kids, but the overall story is easy for everyone to understand and appreciate.
Netflix’s Scott Pilgrim Takes Off begins as a faithful animated remake of the original movie, but quickly surprises viewers with a major twist at the end of the first episode. This allows the series to explore a completely original storyline. With stunning animation and a fantastic soundtrack, it’s easily one of Netflix’s top limited series.
22. Stretch Armstrong And The Flex Fighters (2017-2018)
Stretch Armstrong was a popular action figure from the 1970s known for his incredibly stretchy arms and legs. Hasbro, the toy company behind him, revived the character in 2017 as a Netflix animated series called Stretch Armstrong and the Flex Fighters, which features him alongside a new team of heroes.
The Netflix cartoon features Stretch alongside his friends Wingspan, who can fly by becoming super flat, and Omni-Mass, who can grow or shrink. While designed for kids, it’s packed with action and enjoyable for adults looking for a fun, family-friendly show on Netflix.
21. Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated (2010-2013)
Custom image by Debanjana Chowdhury
For decades, Scooby-Doo has remained a beloved cartoon. Numerous series have followed Scooby and his friends – especially Shaggy – as they investigate mysteries and spooky happenings.
Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated is a recent and highly-regarded version of the classic series. It focuses on the gang as they begin their mystery-solving adventures in their hometown. The show cleverly references and spoofs classic horror films, but keeps the scares mild enough for younger audiences.
Read More
- Robots That React: Teaching Machines to Hear and Act
- Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) February 2026 Hilda’s “Guardian Battalion” Starlight Pass Details
- UFL soft launch first impression: The competition eFootball and FC Mobile needed
- 1st Poster Revealed Noah Centineo’s John Rambo Prequel Movie
- The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim Lead Designer Doesn’t Think a Morrowind Remaster Would Hold Up Today
- Here’s the First Glimpse at the KPop Demon Hunters Toys from Mattel and Hasbro
- eFootball 2026 Epic Italian League Guardians (Thuram, Pirlo, Ferri) pack review
- Katie Price’s husband Lee Andrews explains why he filters his pictures after images of what he really looks like baffled fans – as his ex continues to mock his matching proposals
- Arknights: Endfield Weapons Tier List
- Davina McCall showcases her gorgeous figure in a green leather jumpsuit as she puts on a love-up display with husband Michael Douglas at star-studded London Chamber Orchestra bash
2026-02-04 22:17