Looking for safe, fun, and smart YouTube content your kids will actually enjoy? We’ve curated 20+ of the best YouTube channels for kids ages 8 to 12 each one recommended by real parents and backed by educational value, creativity, and just the right amount of silliness.
Whether your child is a budding artist, an aspiring engineer, or just looking for some giggles after homework, this list has something for every interest.
Why This List Matters for Families Today
Navigating YouTube can be overwhelming especially when you're trying to balance screen time with safety, education, and engagement. That’s why we created this curated list of YouTube channels specifically for tweens. Each recommendation is based on:
Parent reviews
Expert-backed content
Kid-safe and age-appropriate topics
STEM, art, animation, and outdoor learning appeal
Let’s explore the best YouTube content for kids that’s both brain-boosting and laugh-inducing.
STEM & Educational YouTube Channels for Tweens
These channels make science, engineering, and curiosity cool again.
SciShow Kids Bite-sized science videos that explain complex topics in an easy, visual way.
CrunchLabs Founded by ex-NASA engineer Mark Rober, this channel brings STEM to life with epic experiments and build-alongs.
Kurzgesagt – In a Nutshell Visually stunning explainers on science, space, and philosophy. Great for deep thinkers and curious kids.
Mark Rober High-energy science meets wild engineering. Think: glitter bombs, squirrel obstacle courses, and DIY gadgets.
How It’s Made is a classic series that shows how everyday objects are manufactured, oddly satisfying and informative.
Let Me Explain Studios Animated, funny takes on everyday life and science. Great mix of humor and light learning.
Funny & Creative Animation Channels
For kids who love cartoons, memes, and smart humor.
Oversimplified History meets hilarity. These videos make events like WWI easier to understand and fun to talk about at dinner.
Jack Pop Quirky skits and internet-style humor tailored to the tween crowd.
Haminations: Relatable, clean animations based on real-life kid experiences.
Jaiden Animations Emotionally resonant stories, lighthearted comedy, and a feel-good tone tweens love.
Building & Tinkering Channels
These channels spark imagination with hands-on creation.
Brick Science Combines LEGO builds with fun science experiments. Hosted by a relatable young creator.
Magnet Ball Builds Satisfying and creative magnetic ball builds watch animals explore them, too!
Half Asleep Chris Wholesome LEGO storytelling with soothing narration and clever builds.
Art & Creativity Channels for Kids
Help your child explore their creative side with these easy-to-follow art tutorials.
Art for Kids Hub Family-friendly drawing videos. Step-by-step guidance makes it great for kids and parents to draw together.
Draw So Cute Teaches kids to draw adorable, kawaii-style characters great for beginners.
ArtHubForKids Positive, encouraging, and fun. Builds artistic confidence through repetition and joyful expression.
Outdoor Adventure & Movement Channels
For kids who need a break from screens and want to explore the world.
Outdoor Boys Real-life outdoor adventures, survival skills, and nature exploration.
Danny Go! Energetic mix of music, movement, and learning perfect for getting kids up and dancing.
The Big Silly Crocodile Zany outdoor fun that’s weird in the best way.
Claymation & Unique Visual Storytelling
Encouraging slow media and storytelling beyond cartoons.
Hevesh5 Mind-blowing domino art and chain reactions. Great for visual learners and patient creators.
Claymation Shorts While not a single channel, many creators use clay animation for calming, whimsical stories. Search “claymation for kids” on YouTube to discover creators.
Parent Tips for Safer, Smarter YouTube Time
Watch together first: Preview new channels to ensure they match your values.
Use playlists or YouTube Kids: Curate content and avoid algorithm surprises.
Encourage a balance: Screen time is great when it sparks hands-on creativity afterward.
🎬 Want to take things a step further? Check out DIY.org’s “How to Be a YouTuber” course. It’s a fun, kid-safe way to help your child turn their passion into content creation with lessons, prompts, and real YouTube tips made just for kids.
Best YouTube Channels for Kids Ages 8–12
What are the best educational YouTube channels for tweens? SciShow Kids, Kurzgesagt, CrunchLabs, and Mark Rober top the list for fun, science-rich learning.
Are these YouTube channels safe for kids? Yes all have been vetted for age-appropriate content and recommended by real parents. Still, it’s best to preview and supervise as needed.
What’s the best way to make YouTube safer for my child? Use YouTube Kids, set up custom playlists, and adjust your parental control settings.
Are there good art channels for creative kids? Absolutely! Try Art for Kids Hub or Draw So Cute for guided drawing lessons that are easy and fun.
🎥 Ready to Help Your Kid Become a Confident Creator? If your child is dreaming of starting a YouTube channel or just wants to learn what it takes, DIY's “How to Be a YouTuber” course is a fun, safe place to begin. They’ll get step-by-step guidance, creative challenges, and the chance to build real skills at their own pace.
Looking for more hands-on practice? Explore YouTuber-themed activities to turn screen time into skill time.
