Top 5 must-watch anime series for children

Looking for the perfect anime series for your kids can be overwhelming in the vibrant and diverse anime universe. However, fret not! Regardless of whether your child is a wide-eyed adventurer or a moody teenager, there is an anime that caters to their age. Here are the top five shows and movies that they should definitely watch.

For easier browsing, we have curated a selection of the top five anime shows for children. These shows guarantee a delightful blend of amusement, comedy, and meaningful life teachings. Moreover, they are ideal for family viewing, allowing everyone, regardless of age, to partake in the enjoyment.

Top 5 anime for kids to watch

Get ready to be transported to another, much-more colorful world for hours of fun with these five picks.

1. Pokémon

The Pokemon Company

Starting with a well-known and beloved classic, our list features the timeless Pokémon franchise. Inspired by the popular video games, this enduring series has captivated generations with its magical creatures and endearing characters.

At the center of the story is Ash Ketchum, a young trainer of Pokémon, accompanied by his lovable companion Pikachu. Join them on a remarkable adventure that will resonate with your children as they witness Ash's extraordinary journey. Travelling through the expansive Pokémon universe, Ash endeavors to become a Pokémon master, forming new friendships and encountering fresh obstacles in each episode.

Pokémon offers a thrilling blend of adventure, action, and comedy, making it an excellent introduction to anime for young children (and a source of nostalgia for parents). With its card games, video games, and even a live-action movie, this beloved series ensures non-stop entertainment for all. Suitable for ages 5 and above.

Where to watch: Pokémon TV

2. Doraemon

IMDB

Doraemon is another beloved classic that children have enjoyed for generations.

Introducing Nobita Nobi, a compassionate yet indolent and academically challenged student. His mundane existence undergoes a compelling transformation upon encounters with Doraemon, a cat-like robot lacking ears, who hails from the 22nd century on a mission from his descendant to catalyze a more fulfilling existence for Nobita.

If your child possesses an affinity for time travel, pets, and heartwarming familial escapades, then this anime is tailor-made for them. In each episode, a harmonious blend of comedy and moral teachings artfully encourages children to embrace virtues such as honesty and bravery, granting parents tranquility as their children immerse themselves in this entertaining and enlightening series.

Age range: 7+

Where to watch: The Doraemon movies are available on Netflix, with additional TV episodes available on Disney Plus

3. Ponyo

Studio Ghibli

Next up, we have Ponyo, a delightful entry point into the captivating world of Studio Ghibli that both children and adults can relish. Renowned for their visually striking animations and touching musical compositions, Studio Ghibli continues to astound with Ponyo.

The content fragment has been rewritten as follows:

Follow the journey of Ponyo, a goldfish princess, as she forms a deep bond with a boy called Sosuke and desires to become human. Unlike The Little Mermaid, this is where the similarities end. Witness Ponyo's unwavering determination to live on land, which leads to a sequence of enchanting escapades and obstacles jeopardizing Sosuke's village while also transforming her world forever.

Immerse yourself in this vibrant animated film that truly delights the senses. Moreover, with its unforgettable characters, Ponyo offers a heartwarming experience suitable for people of all ages.

Age range: 5+

Where to watch: Ponyo is available for a UK viewers on Netflix and for US viewers on Amazon Prime Video

4. Little Witch Academia

IMDB

This series, which originally aired in 2017, is a recent addition to our list. If you or your children enjoy magical adventures, then Little Witch Academia is the perfect series for you. It was originally adapted from a 2013 film of the same name, but it has grown beyond that. The story takes place at the esteemed Luna Nova Magical Academy, a school where young girls train to become witches. Follow Akko Kagari as she embarks on thrilling adventures, aiming to overcome her non-magical background and become a witch with the aid of a powerful relic.

Reminiscent of beloved childhood classics like The Worst Witch, it offers a charming blend of fantasy and friendship that your little one will love.

Age range: 7+

Where to watch: Netflix

5. Spirited Away

One of the most renowned animation studios, Studio Ghibli, presents Spirited Away, an award-winning fantasy film that needs no introduction. This captivating masterpiece is available to stream on Netflix. Without giving away too much, Spirited Away tells the story of Chihiro Ogino, a ten-year-old girl who unexpectedly enters the enchanting world of kami, mystical spirits from Japanese Shinto folklore. Brace yourself for an emotional rollercoaster as Chihiro is compelled to work in a bathhouse to rescue her parents and find her way back to the human world.

Renowned as a timeless masterpiece, Spirited Away seamlessly blends a mesmerizing plotline, stunning animation, and a memorable soundtrack to craft a film that leaves an indelible impression. However, it should be noted that while it appeals to both grown-ups and youngsters, it does incorporate elements of mild suspense and horror that might be overwhelming for younger viewers.

Age range: 10+

Where to watch: Available on Netflix for UK viewers and Amazon Prime Video for the US

How to watch Crunchyroll from outside your location in 2023

If you're a fan of anime, particularly shows like One Piece, Attack on Titan, or Jujutsu Kaisen, then you'll be glad to know that Crunchyroll is the ultimate destination for streaming these series. With the help of ExpressVPN, you can now enjoy the complete collection of Crunchyroll's anime, no matter where you are in the world.

To fully access Crunchyroll's extensive range of content while abroad, simply follow these steps:

1. Register for ExpressVPN, a leading VPN service with high-speed servers and a secure, private connection regardless of your location.

Connect to any location in the US with Express VPN and enjoy access to 24 diverse spots, ranging from New Jersey to Santa Monica. Visit Crunchyroll online to stream all your favorite animes, including some you may not have seen before.

Accessing Crunchyroll's US lineup offers a distinct advantage. Whereas Hong Kong users are limited to less than 100 titles, the US boasts a collection of nearly 1,000 movies and TV shows.

Furthermore, Crunchyroll provides the option to stream anime for free with an ad-supported plan. Alternatively, users can choose to subscribe, and if undecided, there is a generous 14-day free trial available.

You can check out our other anime coverage here.

Please note that if you click on a product link on this page we may earn a small affiliate commission.