Shows Like Young Sheldon: A World of Quirky, Precocious Kids

The Big Bang Theory: A Familiar Prequel

The most obvious show to watch for fans of Young Sheldon is The Big Bang Theory, for which the show serves as a sort of prequel. In Young Sheldon, fans get a glimpse into the early years of Sheldon Cooper and the family he talked about so much on the show. Young Sheldon offers viewers a better understanding of adult Sheldon from this show. The Big Bang Theory provides satisfaction in hearing adult Sheldon make subtle comments referencing his childhood from moments that are then depicted on the show, although be warned that there are moments that go against what fans originally saw on TBBT.

Johnny Galecki as Leonard, Melissa Rauch as Bernadette, Jim Parsons as Sheldon, Kunal Nayyar as Raj, Kaley Cuoco as Penny, Mayim Bialik as Amy, and Simon Helberg as Howard all toast with champagne around a table in The Big Bang Theory

The Big Bang Theory ran for 12 seasons and 279 episodes, giving fans an extensive look into the lives of Sheldon, Leonard, Penny, and the gang. The show's unique blend of humor, science, and heartwarming moments makes it a must-watch for anyone who enjoyed Young Sheldon's journey.

Penny, Leonard, Sheldon, Amy, Raj, Howard, Bernadette in the Apartment in The Big Bang Theory Finale

Smart Guy: A Tale of Young Geniuses

One of the smartest child geniuses on TV, and one of the earliest depictions of a child genius on television, is in Smart Guy. T.J. Henderson is a 10-year-old boy who, like Sheldon, is so intelligent that he gets transferred to a high school after skipping multiple grades. Also, like Sheldon, his older brother is not thrilled about having his little brother at the same school. Both shows are about young kids trying their best to fit in. Unlike Sheldon, T.J. is a very social child who wants to participate in everything at school. However, in both cases, it's an interesting fish-out-of-water story with strong familial connections.

TJ in school in Smart Guy

Smart Guy, with its 3 seasons and 51 episodes, offers a heartwarming and humorous take on the life of a young genius navigating the challenges of school and family. Fans of Young Sheldon will find T.J. Henderson's journey both relatable and entertaining.

Fuller House: The Next Generation of Quirky Kids

Fuller House is a sequel series to Full House centered around the life of the eldest Tanner daughter D.J. However, her son Max stole every scene he was in. A precocious, highly intelligent student, Max loved to dress up in slacks and buttoned shirts with a vest, just like Sheldon. He even carried a briefcase to school instead of a backpack. He was also very interested in order and neatness. He loved correcting others and poking fun at his siblings who lacked the same level of intelligence as him. Max and Sheldon might have become friends had they existed in the same television world.

Steve, DJ, and Matt in Fuller House.

With 5 seasons and 75 episodes, Fuller House offers a delightful blend of nostalgia and new adventures as the next generation of the Tanner family takes center stage. Max's endearing quirks and intelligence make him a standout character that fans of Young Sheldon will appreciate.

Fuller House DJ, Steph, Danny, Joey, Becky, and Joey breaking the fourth wall

The Middle: A Slice of Quirky Family Life

Based in Indiana, The Middle centers around a lower-middle-class family struggling to make ends meet while dealing with day-to-day challenges involving work and children. There are three kids in the family like in Young Sheldon, each of whom is very different. The eldest son, Axl, is popular and athletic, but lazy and not interested in school, while the daughter, Sue, is socially awkward. The youngest son, Brick, is a bookworm and introvert. His behavior suggests he might be an autistic person, which is something fans have long theorized about Sheldon as well.

The Heck family in The Middle.

With 9 seasons and 215 episodes, The Middle offers a heartfelt and humorous portrayal of family life, complete with quirky kids and relatable challenges. Fans of Young Sheldon will find themselves immersed in the everyday adventures of the Heck family and their endearing quirks.