December 11, 2024
Anime | Best Anime For Kids | Otaku in Training
There are tons of anime out there, but how many are actually appropriate for kids? Check out our list of the top 20 anime for kids and find out!
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When it comes to finding shows for kids, anime offers a fantastic variety of options that are fun and even educational. The best anime for children combines exciting adventures, heartfelt moments, and valuable life lessons on various subjects including friendship, courage, and perseverance. Whether your child loves fantasy, comedy, or action, there’s an anime that satisfies their interests. What makes these shows truly special is how they introduce complex themes in a way that’s easy for kids to understand.
In this list of the top anime for kids, we’ve highlighted engaging, age-appropriate series filled with positive messages that any child would enjoy. And what’s more? A good number of the listed anime series here are suitable for all ages, so you don’t have to feel left out in the fun!
|
Number |
Title |
|
1 |
Little Witch Academia |
|
2 |
Pokémon |
|
3 |
Sailor Moon |
|
4 |
Digimon Adventure |
|
5 |
Doraemon |
|
6 |
Dragon Ball |
|
7 |
Naruto |
|
8 |
Kiki’s Delivery Service |
|
9 |
Spirited Away |
|
10 |
Spy X Family |
|
11 |
Yo-Kai Watch |
|
12 |
Tottoko Hamtarou - Hamtaro |
|
13 |
Chi’s New Address/Chi’s Sweet Home |
|
14 |
My Hero Academia |
|
15 |
Haikyu!! |
|
16 |
Kaitou Joker - Mysterious Joker |
|
17 |
Sonic X |
|
18 |
Rilakkuma and Kaoru |
|
19 |
Sherlock Hound |
|
20 |
Pretty Cure |
1. Little Witch Academia
|
Attribute |
Details |
|
Name |
Little Witch Academia |
|
Genres |
Magical Fantasy | Comedy | Magical Girl | Adventure | Magic |
|
Episodes |
25 |
|
Studio |
Trigger |
|
Creator |
Yoh Yoshinari |
The Little Witch Academia TV series stood out among the anime that aired in the Winter of 2017. It was the only new show from that season that had the potential to become something great, capturing attention from the start.
Little Witch Academia is a fantastic anime series for children, combining adventure, humor, and important life lessons. The storyline centers on Akko Kagari, a young girl lacking any magical background, who aspires to become an incredible witch, inspired by her idol, Shiny Chariot. Even though she doesn't possess any witch powers, Akko's determination, supported by her friends, enables her to explore the magical world of Luna Nova Magical Academy.
The series highlights themes of determination, friendship, and self-discovery. It creates an engaging and inspiring experience for children, all while providing humorous enjoyment through magical adventures.
2. Pokémon
|
Attribute |
Details |
|
Name |
Pokémon |
|
Genres |
Fantasy | Adventure | Action | Comedy | Monsters | Tournaments |
|
Episodes |
1300+ |
|
Studio |
OLM |
|
Creator |
Satoshi Tajiri |
Pokémon is a Japanese media franchise established by Satoshi Tajiri in 1996, focusing on young Ash Ketchum and fantastical creatures known as Pokémon. These creatures are captured and trained by humans for battle. The franchise encompasses video games, an animated television series, films, trading cards, and a range of merchandise. The primary objective in the games is to achieve the status of a Pokémon Master by capturing all Pokémon and overcoming powerful trainers. The franchise has emerged as one of the most successful worldwide, attracting both children and adults through its combination of adventure and strategy.
With over 20 Pokémon seasons from Pokémon: The Indigo League which was released in 1997 to Pokémon: Horizons which is currently ongoing, the anime series has over 1300 episodes. Don’t let that number scare you! Each episode is an exciting short episodic adventure with an easy to grasp overarching storyline.
3. Sailor Moon
|
Attribute |
Details |
|
Name |
Sailor Moon |
|
Genres |
Romance | Mythology | Magical Girl | Comedy | Fantasy |
|
Episodes |
200 |
|
Studio |
Toei Animation |
|
Creator |
Naoko Takeuchi |
The popular Sailor Moon manga series was created by the popular Japanese writer and artist Naoko Takeuchi. This series has helped to lift the magical girl genre, giving birth to several other manga and anime series in the same genre. It’s also being regarded as the pinnacle of Shojo anime due to an increased number of girls embracing Shojo manga.
The series centers on Usagi Tsukino, a somewhat nervous schoolgirl whose life takes a dramatic turn after she saves a magical cat called Luna. Usagi discovers her fate as Sailor Moon, a guardian assigned to defend Earth against the forces of the evil Queen Beryl. Using a magical brooch, Usagi transforms to confront monsters, search for the lost Moon Princess, and protect the Legendary Silver Crystal.
4. Digimon Adventure
|
Attribute |
Details |
|
Name |
Digimon Adventure |
|
Genres |
Sci-Fi | Action | Adventure | Fantasy | Comedy |
|
Episodes |
519 |
|
Studio |
Toei Animation |
|
Creator |
Akiyoshi Hongo |
Digimon is a classic anime series that centers around seven children who find themselves in a digital realm inhabited by evolving creatures known as Digimon. Famous for its rich character development and significant impact on people, it delves into themes such as friendship, teamwork, and personal growth.
Although often perceived as a Pokémon imitation, Digimon presents more mature storytelling, addressing themes such as death and family struggles. This makes it an excellent choice for young audiences. With a dedicated fanbase, it remains one of the few 90s retro anime that continues to thrive today, making it into a treasured modern series.
5. Doraemon
|
Attribute |
Details |
|
Name |
Doraemon |
|
Genres |
Fantasy | Comedy | Adventure |
|
Episodes |
1160 |
|
Studio |
Nippon TV Douga |
|
Creator |
Fujiko F. Fujio |
Doraemon is a robotic cat from the 22nd century, sent back in time to assist Nobita Nobi, whose future descendants suffer due to his laziness. Doraemon, with gadgets tucked away in a pocket on his belly, seeks to guide Nobita on the path to success.
Nonetheless, Nobita and Doraemon frequently find themselves caught in various mishaps. Although life with Doraemon brings more excitement, it remains uncertain whether Nobita's future is improving. The anime blends humor, creative gadgets, and important life lessons, making it one of the best anime for children around the globe.
Sadly, due to its poor preservation, the original series has never been distributed on any medium or re-aired. A fire occurred after the series had already been terminated, destroying nearly all of the footage (apart from the opening and ending credits).
However, Doraemon fan events in Japan often screen surviving episodes from the show. Also, a few of the episodes' audio tracks have been preserved, and parts of episodes 1 through 24 are available as still photos.
Of course, Doraemon is still running today, so you can check this awesome series out for yourself!
6. Dragon Ball
|
Attribute |
Details |
|
Name |
Dragon Ball |
|
Genres |
Adventure | Fantasy | Comedy | Action | Super Power | Martial Arts |
|
Episodes |
153 |
|
Studio |
Toei Animation |
|
Creator |
Akira Toriyama |
The major difference between Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z lies in the tone and focus of the series. Dragon Ball follows the early adventures of young Goku as he searches for the Dragon Balls, facing humorous and light-hearted challenges. It focuses more on martial arts, exploration, and Goku's growth. Dragon Ball Z, however, takes on a more serious tone, featuring intense battles, powerful enemies like the Saiyans and Frieza, and complex character development, particularly in Goku's adulthood and his transformation into a Super Saiyan.
Dragon Ball truly is the beginning of an iconic franchise. Often overlooked due to its later, more intense sequels, the original series stands out for its charm and simplicity. It has a refreshing comedic tone, and genuine character chemistry. While the graphics may be dated, it holds up quite well, especially for a show originally broadcast in the 1980s.
7. Naruto
|
Attribute |
Details |
|
Name |
Naruto |
|
Genres |
Martial Arts | Fantasy | Comedy | Adventure | Action | Drama | Ninja |
|
Episodes |
220 |
|
Studio |
Pierrot |
|
Creator |
Masashi Kishimoto |
While growing up, Millennials and older Gen Zs had so much fun in their childhood years watching Naruto. The anime series debuted in 2002 and ran for 5 years into the mid-2000s. Undoubtedly, it was a childhood and teenage favorite for those born around that time and it’s still a top-ranking anime.
With a great mix of action, emotional depth, coming-of-age themes, and an impressive storyline, the series follows the story of young Naruto Uzumaki in his quest to become the Hokage (Chief) of the Hidden Leaf Village.
8. Kiki’s Delivery Service
|
Attribute |
Details |
|
Name |
Kiki’s Delivery Service |
|
Genres |
Adventure | Fantasy | Drama | Comedy | Slice of Life | Magic |
|
Episodes |
1 Movie |
|
Studio |
Studio Ghibli |
|
Creator |
Eiko Kadono |
Kiki's Delivery Service tells the story of a young witch named Kiki, who, at the age of 13, embarks on a journey away from her home to fulfill a year of witch training in a different town. She finds and establishes herself in a coastal city where she starts a delivery service, using her flying broomstick to move goods. Kiki encounters the trials of becoming independent, dealing with self-doubt, and a loss of her magical powers.
However, through the formation of new friendships and her unwavering determination, she regains her confidence and powers once more, embarking on her unique journey into adulthood. The film thoroughly explores the themes of growth, self-discovery, and perseverance.
9. Spirited Away
|
Attribute |
Details |
|
Name |
Spirited Away |
|
Genres |
Supernatural |
|
Episodes |
1 Movie |
|
Studio |
Studio Ghibli |
|
Creator |
Hayao Miyazaki |
Spirited Away is a 2001 gem from Studio Ghibli, written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki. The story centers on Chihiro, a young girl who accidentally enters a mystical world of spirits, where her parents are transformed into pigs. To rescue them, she is required to work in a bathhouse operated by the witch Yubaba.
Drawing inspiration from the daughter of a friend of Miyazaki, the plot smoothly blends Shinto folklore with concepts of personal development and courage. Spirited Away earned over $395 million in box office revenue, won an Academy Award, and is regarded as one of the finest animated films of all time. The legacy continues to thrive, distinguished by its vibrant style of animation and profound emotional impact.
10. Spy x Family
|
Attribute |
Details |
|
Name |
Spy X Family |
|
Genres |
Comedy | Action | Family Life | Psychic Powers |
|
Episodes |
24 |
|
Studio |
Wit Studios, CloverWorks |
|
Creator |
Tatsuya Endo |
This award-winning Shonen anime series, in its two-season run, presents the highly intriguing Forger family. If you’re looking for a family-friendly anime, Spy x Family is a top choice. The story follows Loid, a spy who forms a makeshift family with an assassin wife and a telepathic daughter - though none of them know each other’s secrets. While packed with action and humor, the heart of the show lies in its messages of bonding and love. The light-hearted approach and clean content make it suitable for children, ensuring entertainment for all ages.
11. Yo-Kai Watch
|
Attribute |
Details |
|
Name |
Yo-Kai Watch |
|
Genres |
Comedy | Supernatural |
|
Episodes |
214 |
|
Studio |
OLM |
|
Creator |
Akihiro Hino |
Keita Amano, a primary school student, discovers a mysterious capsule in the forest and releases a ghostly creature known as Whisper. Whisper, filled with gratitude for his freedom, presents Keita with a Youkai Watch, enabling him to see and engage with supernatural beings known as Youkai.
Accompanied by Whisper and the cat spirit Jibanyan, Keita sets out on numerous adventures, forming friendships with Youkai and addressing the trouble they cause. Through these encounters, Keita learns important life lessons, turning his daily existence into an extraordinary adventure brimming with excitement and self-development.
12. Tottoko Hamtarou – Hamtaro
|
Attribute |
Details |
|
Name |
Tottoko Hamtarou - Hamtaro |
|
Genres |
Comedy | Adventure | Slice of Life | Family Friendly | Pets |
|
Episodes |
296 |
|
Studio |
TMS Entertainment |
|
Creator |
Ritsuko Kawai |
Hamtaro is another kid-friendly anime series that’s highly engaging and age-friendly. It is so cute to watch as the series follows the adventures of cute hamsters as they find their way in the big world. Even though it was made for kids, the easy tone and the hamsters' relationships make it fun to watch and appeal to all ages.
The hamsters are beautifully drawn and blend in perfectly with the bright suburban setting. The animation is top-notch and full of bright colors. The happy music is also very nice, you might even find yourself singing along. This funny show is generally a joyful and enjoyable experience that is hard to resist, no matter what age the viewer is.
13. Chi’s New Address / Chi’s Sweet Home
|
Attribute |
Details |
|
Name |
Chi’s New Address / Chi’s Sweet Home |
|
Genres |
Slice of Life | Comedy | Adventure | Pets |
|
Episodes |
104 |
|
Studio |
Madhouse |
|
Creator |
Kanata Konami |
Are you experiencing a challenging day? Enjoy a few episodes of Chi and her peculiar adventures! They are sure to bring joy to your face... or warmth to your heart. Even the characters you dismiss and think that you'll never enjoy you find yourself liking them, even if just a little! This anime is certainly suitable for those who find themselves too busy, as the episodes are only a few minutes long, making it easy to follow.
14. My Hero Academia
|
Attribute |
Details |
|
Name |
My Hero Academia |
|
Genres |
Superheroes | Superpower | Drama | Comedy | Action |
|
Episodes |
159 |
|
Studio |
Bones |
|
Creator |
Kohei Horikoshi |
Boku no Hero Academia, also known as My Hero Academia, is an exceptional anime for children and young teens, providing an exciting glimpse into a universe brimming with superpowers referred to as “quirks.” The series is filled with action and also effectively teaches moral lessons about good and evil. This inspires creativity and prompts young audiences to reflect on themes of heroism, responsibility, and personal development.
With its captivating characters, My Hero Academia expands children's perspectives, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy adventure, creativity, and strong moral principles.
15. Haikyu!!
|
Attribute |
Details |
|
Name |
Haikyuu!! |
|
Genres |
School Life | Sports |
|
Episodes |
85 |
|
Studio |
Production I.G. |
|
Creator |
Haruichi Furudate |
Haikyuu!! is one of the most popular and highly rated sports anime series. The story centers around Shoyo Hinata, a passionate volleyball player who, despite his small stature, aspires to be among the elite in the sport. The series centers on his high school journey as he becomes a member of the Karasuno volleyball team, confronts rivals, and discovers the significance of teamwork. Featuring intense matches and relatable characters, Haikyuu!! embodies the essence of perseverance and sportsmanship, establishing itself as a must-watch for fans of sports anime.
16. Mysterious Joker
|
Attribute |
Details |
|
Name |
Kaitou Joker - Mysterious Joker |
|
Genres |
Adventure | Comedy | Mystery |
|
Episodes |
52 |
|
Studio |
Shin-Ei Animation |
|
Creator |
Hideyasu Takahashi |
Mysterious Joker is an anime that follows Joker, a master thief who undertakes daring heists using his sharp wit and clever tactics. He journeys across the world, acquiring invaluable treasures, yet his escapades are anything but ordinary. Joker frequently comes across strong rivals and engages in exciting pursuits with traps and challenges. Alongside his partner Hachi, Joker must outsmart detectives and cleverly overcome those who challenge him.
17. Sonic X
|
Attribute |
Details |
|
Name |
Sonic X |
|
Genres |
Sci Fi | Comedy | Action | Adventure | Family Friendly |
|
Episodes |
78 |
|
Studio |
TMS Entertainment |
|
Creator |
Hiro Masaki and Kiyoko Yoshimura |
Sonic X tells the story of Sonic the Hedgehog and his companions, who find themselves unexpectedly transported to Earth during their fight against their foe, Doctor Eggman. With assistance from a human boy named Chris Thorndyke, Sonic strives to reunite with his friends and stop Eggman's plans to control the powerful Chaos Emeralds. The final arc brings Sonic and his team back to their home, where they confront alien invaders known as the Metarex. Despite receiving mixed reviews, Sonic X became popular, particularly in the U.S. and France, leading to the creation of merchandise such as games, toys, and comics.
18. Rilakkuma And Kaoru
|
Attribute |
Details |
|
Name |
Rilakkuma and Kaoru |
|
Genres |
Slice of Life |
|
Episodes |
21 |
|
Studio |
Dwarf |
|
Creator |
Aki Kondo |
Rilakkuma and Kaoru is an enchanting stop-motion anime series inspired by the popular Rilakkuma character, created by Dwarf Studio and San-X. It initially debuted on Netflix in April 2019 and was granted a second season in August 2022, named Rilakkuma’s Theme Park Adventure.
The series centers around the easygoing brown bear Rilakkuma, his companion Korilakkuma, and Kaoru, a young office worker in her twenties. Alongside Kaoru’s pet chick, they experience warm, cheerful moments that capture the essence of daily life and personal development. The anime artfully combines whimsy with relatable character interactions in a visually stunning appearance.
19. Sherlock Hound
|
Attribute |
Details |
|
Name |
Sherlock Hound |
|
Genres |
Action | Comedy | Mystery | Adventure |
|
Episodes |
26 |
|
Studio |
TMS Entertainment, Gallop |
|
Creator |
Sunao Katabuchi |
Sherlock Hound (Meitantei Homuzu) is an anime that beautifully blends Italian and Japanese influences, drawing inspiration from Arthur Conan Doyle's iconic character: Sherlock Holmes. The series transforms the legendary detective into a human-looking dog, incorporating steampunk-inspired technology from the 19th century. The show, consisting of 26 episodes, aired between 1984 and 1985, featuring a significant contribution from Hayao Miyazaki. The episodes were subsequently compiled into films and released in conjunction with Miyazaki’s major works.
20. Pretty Cure
|
Attribute |
Details |
|
Name |
Pretty Cure |
|
Genres |
Action | Comedy |
|
Episodes |
968 |
|
Studio |
Toei Animation |
|
Creator |
Izumi Todo |
Also known as Purikyua Shirizu, this is a long-standing magical girl anime franchise. Since its debut in 2004 with Futari wa Pretty Cure, it has evolved into a major series, boasting nearly 1000 episodes, numerous films, and a wide array of merchandise. Every season centers around a group of magical girls known as Pretty Cures, who combat evil forces with their powers, frequently aided by fairy companions. The most recent installment, Wonderful PreCure!, began airing in 2024.
Honorable Mention... Avatar: The Last Airbender
|
Attribute |
Details |
|
Name |
Avatar: The Last Airbender |
|
Genres |
Fantasy | Comedy | Drama | Action | Adventure |
|
Episodes |
61 |
|
Studio |
Nickelodeon Animation Studio |
|
Creator |
Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko |
Avatar: The Last Airbender is a fantastic addition to any list of anime for kids, even though it's technically Western animation. It’s the compelling story of Aang which blends action, adventure, and powerful life lessons. Themes of friendship, responsibility, and good versus evil are explored in an engaging, age-appropriate manner.
The series also inspires kids to believe in themselves and embrace diversity, making it a timeless favorite for a whole generation that grew up watching and learning from it. It’s a perfect choice for both young audiences and nostalgic older fans alike.
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