GoKawiilStreaming services that house mature content -- such as Max and Netflix -- provide ways for parents to restrict what programming kids can watch. Others offer children's-only content with customizable settings that allow you to block certain titles. Check for parental controls that aren't easily bypassed, like PINs or curated kids' profiles.
For any streaming service, you'll want to know how many screens you can watch at a time. For example, Netflix's ad-based plan allows two simultaneous streams, but you have to upgrade to the premium version if your family needs four screens. Look for platform offerings that let your household stream on multiple devices at once if that's what you need.
Some of these services are free to access, while others require a paid subscription. And if you don't mind your child seeing ads while streaming, you can choose a free platform or low-cost plan to save money each month. Not every streamer shows commercials on kids' content, but prepare to pay more for a service like Paramount Plus or Disney Plus to stream without ads.
CNET staff -- not advertisers, partners or business interests -- determine how we review products and services. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission.
What's the best kids streaming service overall?
Netflix and Disney Plus may be the top choices in your household when it comes to kids' programming. The content libraries featured on each platform offer a diverse range of family-friendly TV shows and movies suitable for various age groups. Choosing our top pick from our list of best streaming services for kids was a challenging feat. To decide on a winner, we had to find the streamer that balances educational and fun programming seamlessly, while also providing parental tools to ensure the content being watched is age-appropriate. Disney Plus is the standout; it ticked all the necessary boxes, so we've picked it as the best streaming platform for kids. However, it's certainly not the only option, offering a lot to offer.
We put each of the streaming platforms in our list, below, to the test, based on subscription cost, content libraries, ad load times and safety features like parental controls. Each streamer featured in this list is jam-packed with solid TV shows and movies, with some operating as entertainment hubs for your kids' favorite characters. If you're on the hunt for the streaming service that may be the right fit for your family, read on for our in-depth guide.
Best Streaming Service for Kids in 2025
Disney Photo Gallery 1/1 Penny Proud in The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder original series on Disney Plus. Disney Best varied, kid-friendly library Disney Plus Pros Wide catalog of popular TV and movies from Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar and National Geographic;
Ability to choose content ratings;
... continue reading