Kids like animation since cartoons can connect meaningfully at all stages of development. Since kids are so swayed by animation, parents and teachers should understand this distinction and let it inform their decisions regarding appropriate screen time for all kids.

As a mom of four kids and teacher for almost two decades, I’ve experienced my own back and forth opinions on screen time, so-called ‘child-friendly’ movies, and whether or not animation is worthwhile. I’m happy to share what I’ve learned and hope it helps you form a well-rounded evaluation. So read on!

Why Babies Like Animation (Cartoons)

To be honest, most medical and child experts will frown upon infants watching any sort of TV or video programs, but let’s get real here. The more technology advances and changes, the more it permeates our day-to-day life, so in that case, what’s to know about babies and animation?

Babies like animation because it appeals to their senses and offers interactive time with their parent or caregiver. Thus, watching cartoons can be appropriate within reason, especially when the animation aligns with and supports infant cognitive development, making it an education opportunity.

As mentioned before, cartoons are so appealing to infants because, when designed correctly, they engage their senses.

Carefully created cartoons for the under 2s are those with bright and vibrant colors; large or oversize images or characters; happy, jovial music; and simple, easy to hear words or phrases.

You’ll also notice that the most popular cartoons for 2 and under are those where the main character seems to be talking directly to kids.

But you may say that research tells us kids under 2 shouldn’t watch TV (screens) at all, right? After all, research has proven a correlation for older kids who watch TV (screens) and obesity, sleep problems, aggression, and more….right?

Well, that’s not entirely true!

Yes, there is research such as that from the Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health (2017), that tell us ‘screen time is linked to childhood and adult obesity and sleep issues, and emotional problems in children.’

But there’s a big problem with this line of research, which was recently highlighted by the Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry (2020): traditional research claims are faulty, because of its practice of lumping all screen time together.

Most experts and specialists have been relying on old data (think: pre-internet, smart phones, and streaming time-frames), and thus, the conclusions they’ve asserted from that data are invalid.

In today’s world, moms and dads are more likely to stream carefully selected educational and child-appropriate animation for their kids rather than rely upon whatever happens to be showing on Cartoon Network at the time.

So as long as you’re being thoughtful with your choices for your under 2s, there really shouldn’t be any reason to avoid cartoons.

Suggestions for the Under 2s:

• Screen time is generally not recommended by specialists for children under aged 2, so keep that in mind.
• Viewing should compliment activities, not be the focus. For instance, mom can sit with baby to sing and act out ‘Wheels on the Bus’ while also showing CoCoMelon’s version.
• Any screen time should be child-friendly. It is surprising what little ones can take in, even if cognitively the information is above their understanding. Thus, don’t put infants in an area where content is scary or too mature.
• Play and talk about what’s happening on the screen.

Why Toddlers Like Animation (Cartoons)

By the time today’s toddlers are vocalizing their likes and dislikes, parents are well aware of which cartoons their 2 year old prefers. So why do toddlers like animation and which are more popular and worthy of their attention?

Like babies, toddlers like animation that appeals to their senses. But more than just sight and sound, toddlers are drawn to kinesthetic cartoons that give opportunity to dance and move with the characters. Caregivers can feel confident allowing animation if selecting these kinds of cartoons.

Animation for toddlers is similar to those created for infants, yet the most popular ones also include characters dancing and singing, something that toddlers are learning to do. Let’s look at a few of the best for toddlers right now:

Bubble Guppies

Bubble Guppies started in 2011 and it’s hooked the preschoolers ever since. With its songs, dances, and short plots (like getting a haircut, losing a favorite toy, or making a new friend) relatable to its pint-sized audience, it’s no wonder toddlers can’t get enough.

When I visited my granddaughters who live several states away recently, I became quite familiar with many BG songs. In particular, my granddaughter Kayleigh (5 years old then) would jump into song and dance along with the guppies and while her little sister Suvi would emulate her, it was apparent that the tunes and moves were better suited for the over 2s.

And it didn’t just stop once the cartoon was over either! Oh no! Whether it was dinner time or time for a bath, the girls would hum and sway the ‘Bubble Guppies’ way with or without the TV!

Peppa Pig

After my recent time visiting my 1-month-old granddaughter Marcie, 22-month-old granddaughter Suvi, and 5-year-old granddaughter Kayleigh, I must admit to watching our fair share of Peppa Pig over the course of two weeks.

And I came away a new fan of the Pig family, that is: 4-year-old Peppa; 2-year-old brother George; Mummy Pig; and Daddy Pig, pig-whiskers and all!

Unlike Bubble Guppies, Peppa Pig is quite calm and soothing to watch. It’s a perfect contrast for toddlers and preschoolers too!

After grooving head to toe with the BGs, it’s rather nice and comforting for them to sit and watch a quiet episode of Peppa and her family of pigs and friends that include Suzy Sheep, Zoe Zebra, Emily Elephant, and Candy Cat.

Parents and grandparents alike (as well as just anyone in charge of little kiddos) can feel assured that certainly no harm can come from watching this adorable cartoon! And I dare you to watch and not fall in love with them, too!

Doc McStuffins

Doc McStuffins is certainly created for and enjoyed by little kids, but it’s really what I like to call a bridge cartoon, meaning it’s similar to Bubble Guppies with its visual vibrancy and songs, but also like Peppa with its story arc.

The main character is a little girl named Dottie who wants to be like her doctor mom, so she becomes ‘Doc McStuffins’ and pretends to heal her toys when they are ‘sick’ (i.e. broken or torn).

Little kids like to watch the cartoon and imitate Doc/Dottie at the same time, doctoring their toys along with her. Doc McStuffins is popular with kids not only because of its storyline, but also because it gives kids a friend to play along with at the same time. Many parents like it since it teaches compassion and careers, too.

To read more articles related to kid-safe media, try these:

• Cartoons Are For Kids (Even If Most Adults Like Them, Too)
• Try These Top 9 TV Shows Guaranteed To Make Your Kid Laugh!
• Stupid, Funny Movies The Whole Family Can Watch

School-Aged Kids Like Cartoons, Too

School-aged kids like vibrant, silly cartoons, but also animation that’s a little more grown up. So what do parents, grandparents, and teachers need to know in order to understand this kind of range for school kids watching and liking cartoons?

School-aged kids, like infants and toddlers like animation, but have a particular appeal when watching cartoons. They are drawn to cartoons that have goofy, gross, or slapstick humor, as well as animation that includes relatable plots connecting to their interests and concerns.

I’ve listed below a few examples of this contrast in the likes of animation for school kids below, based on my experience teaching and parenting kids for most of my life. Let’s take a look!

One way to build humor with your kids is to use it strategically through routines or regular activities. For instance, our Fun Jokes For Kids Coloring Book is a great tool for embedding humor through kid-friendly activity.

SpongeBob SquarePants

SpongeBob SquarePants first came on the scene back in 1999 and has been a hit since then, with school-aged kids, as well as kids older (and adults, too). It’s mass appeal lies not only in its simplistic graphics and catchy theme song, but also in its humor. In fact, many say it’s humor is the main reason for its continued success.

But in particular, why do school-aged kids like SpongeBob and his underwater gang?

Well, for one, kids of this age are starting to understand humor more. They get ‘jokes’ and even if they struggle with punchlines, understand what a punchline is and how that is necessary for making jokes funny.

So the fact that SpongeBob actually uses humor is engaging for them.

They also like the plots and can relate to the problems embedded in the cartoons such as friendships, bullying, being embarrassed, wanting new ‘toys’, and some peoples love (or need) of money (Hello, Mr. Krabs!).

DC Super Hero Girls

DC Super Hero Girls is popular with school-aged kids because of its connection to the Marvel/DC Comics World. School-aged kids know that super hero stories are enjoyed by big kids and adults, so certainly they enjoy something that is a spin-off animation of that.

As well, school-aged kids have heightened imaginations. This is the the age/stage when kids start to develop their own stories and fantasies, so of course, anything related to supernatural powers is appealing, like DC Kids with its younger version of super heroes.

Not to mention, DC super hero girls are just above school-aged kids’ age, giving them instant ‘cool kid’ status.

Older kids and parents can enjoy watching DC Super Hero Girls, too, since their storylines are relatable to the older crowd (i.e. following your dream; time conflicts; buying a car…) and connect to the big screen and comic book universes. Yet, DC Super Hero Girls are still innocent enough for 7-12 year olds, making it a perfect family night movie!

LEGO City Adventures

Animated cartoons that involve toys have massive appeal to kids, both little and big, but especially school-aged kids. When you can tie in toys with an animated story, like any LEGO movie does, then kids gravitate to it!

LEGO City Adventures is just one of the many LEGO animation films that school-aged children enjoy. The characters in the cartoons look like characters that any kid can create too, with just the enough lego bricks, so this type of cartoon is super engaging for boys and girls who like constructing legos!

The LEGO cartoons are also popular with school-aged kids because they incorporate a super hero connection or theme. By pairing the two, kids are able to enjoy a meshing of their favorites: toys and super heroes. It’s no wonder LEGO keeps making more cartoons and movies for release!

Tips for School-Aged Cartoon and Animation Viewing:

• Be consistent with time-limits.
• Limit viewing during the school week with extended viewing on weekends.
• Watch together if possible.
• Keep screen time in family rooms only. (Private viewing relaxes standards for your kids and CREATORS!)
• Talk about shows afterwards.
• Model good behavior but don’t restrict yourself like you would a child (i.e. keeping screens out of bedrooms, unless you explicitly want to do that). Be clear about ‘adult rules’ versus rules for kids who are still growing mentally, emotionally, and physically.

Teens Like Animation (Cartoons)But With An Edgy Twist

As stated earlier, it’s not too shocking that little kids like animation and cartoons. It seems that’s what they’re made for, even. However, what is surprising to some is that teens still enjoy cartoons. What is it that makes teens continue to like animation?

Similar to most kids, teens like animation too, but the kind of animation teens enjoy are not your regular cartoons. Teens like animation that is more developed, edgy, and nuanced; include complete story arcs; and have relatable plots to teen issues, concerns, and interests.

One very popular teen cartoon is anime. Anime is not just one cartoon though; rather it’s a style or sub-genre of animation, coming from Japanese manga (comic books).

Note of warning: Many Anime series have a good portion of their content on the teen level or above. Yet, there are several that stray into sexual themes and explicit violence that even would make adults wince. Unlike many western style cartoons, these themes can appear randomly catching parents off guard. Allow Anime with caution.

There are many anime films and series that have risen to mainstream, crossing language barriers like: Tokyo Ghoul, Naruto, and Sailor Moon.

Because of it’s popularity, anime has been influential in the rise of students enrolling in Japanese as a foreign language classes, and likewise, it’s been proposed as useful for teaching Japanese in the classroom setting (Source: Malaysian Online Journal of Educational Technology, 2017), demonstrating just how impactful animation, when done well, can actually be!

But serious cartoons and anime aren’t the only ones teens enjoy. They also enjoy animation that’s irreverent, sarcastic, or ‘movie-like’.

Other Popular Animation for Teens:

• The Simpsons (1989-) On FXNow; Hulu; and Amazon Rentals and for Purchase
• Young Justice (2010-) On HBOMax and Amazon Rentals and for Purchase
• Family Guy (1999-) On Multiple Cable Outlets and for Amazon Purchase
• Bob’s Burgers (2011-) On Multiple Cable Outlets and for Amazon Purchase
• Star Wars the Clone Wars (2008-2020) On Amazon Rentals and for Purchase

(Why) Kids Like Animation/Cartoons Punchline

To sum it up, all kids like animation. However, the reasons behind it and the appeal vary with each age group.

From infants who enjoy large images to toddlers who like cartoons that dance to big kids who prefer more developed stories, albeit in cartoon form, animation has a broad range and can be included in kids’ screen time without harm when chosen thoughtfully and strategically.

For further reading on humor and media relating to kids, try these:

• Cartoons Are For Kids (Even If Most Adults Like Them, Too)
• Try These Top 9 TV Shows Guaranteed To Make Your Kid Laugh!
• Stupid, Funny Movies The Whole Family Can Watch

Dry humor movies and shows are generally not appropriate for kids up until teen years, and even then, caution is warranted. Albeit exceptions exist, dry humor comedies often rely on sarcasm, crude or rude language, and/or mature situations that are too advanced for most children.

As a mom of four and longtime public school teacher, I’ve made it a point to be careful about what I select for kids’ viewing. It’s surprising, or maybe not, what I’ve learned: that many so-called family-friendly ‘dry humor’ movies aren’t really for kids at all!

Dry Humor Examples

For starters, parents, grandparents, teachers, coaches, or anyone in charge of kids, should know what dry humor actually means. For many, dry humor is thought to be in the realm of kid-appropriate because of it’s calmer tone. But that’s not always the case! What are dry humor examples?

Dry humor, also known as deadpan humor, examples are those kinds of humor that has a calm, matter-of-fact delivery, often with the punchline left unsaid and up to the audience to fill-in-the-blank mentally. Dry humor examples frequently are observational, tongue-in-cheek, and ironic or sarcastic.

As an adult, it’s common to enjoy dry humor because it’s less overt and not prone to too much silliness. It’s almost like listening to a speech or just having a conversation that just happens to have a humorous bent.

deadpan: also known as dry humor is “marked by an impassive matter-of-fact manner, style, or expression”

Merriam-Webster

Now the very definition of dry or deadpan humor is precisely what makes it less appealing for kids comedically, not addressing the advanced content usually attached. Kids’ sense of humor develops overtime. It starts with overt, slapstick that is undeniable in it’s humor-quality and gradually progresses to more underlying, subtle comedy.

One way to build humor with your kids is to use it strategically through routines or regular activities. For instance, our Fun Jokes For Kids Coloring Book is a great tool for embedding humor through kid-friendly activity.

But the key word is ‘gradual.’

Developmentally, kids don’t comprehend or ‘get’ irony and sarcasm until much older. Teachers begin to teach irony in upper-elementary, and I can tell you from experience, it’s very challenging for the average kiddo to figure it out.

Teachers rely mostly on direct explanation, telling ‘this is ironic because…’ and kids are usually only expected to point out an example of irony from multiple choices options with the correct answer veering on blatant. It’s not until late middle school and high school that kids are expected to delve deeper into the concept of irony.

That’s not to say parents, grandparents, teachers, etc… can’t help kids along with humor!

Kids Who Laugh : How to Develop Your Child’s Sense of Humor by Louis Franzini (available on Amazon Kindle or paperback) explains the importance of developing a sense of humor in kids, something parents especially often overlook, thinking it’s impossible. You either have a sense of humor or not, right? Wrong!

Teachers are also encouraged to use humor in the classroom, with studies showing it improves relationships as well as learning. I enjoyed infusing humor throughout all my lessons, even though I’m not naturally a funny person.

For instance, I often began lessons with a Knock-Knock joke. These are really easy for kids to understand because of the patterns and so they find them naturally funny. And I really liked using jokes with play on words or puns, as that’s particularly helpful for language learners and kids with reading disabilities.

As well, I used comedic media to grab students’ attention and help them make connections to real life from what I was trying to teach them. From SpongeBob clips to snippets of Disney or Nickelodeon tween shows, kids enjoy anything that doesn’t look ‘academic’ when in school.

Yet, teachers need to be careful about incorporating outside media and should vet it beforehand.

However, another complication with dry or deadpan humor for kids is its use of sarcasm. It’s no shock to anyone who knows a teen (or was one themselves), that sarcasm has great teen appeal.

With it’s affiliation to passive-aggressiveness and rudeness, those in the middle of their turbulent teen years see it as way to lash out or talk back without being considered overtly disrespectful. So movies involving sarcastic humor is a draw for them!

Yet, it doesn’t necessarily mean they understand the use of sarcasm in context. And it doesn’t mean they appreciate sarcasm directed back at them either!

As for pre-adolescent children, sarcasm is often misunderstood. So much so, that teachers are urged to avoid it (though, this doesn’t mean that happens, either!). So all in all, it’s with much reservation, that dry, deadpan movies are used for children, despite what Hollywood thinks.

Examples of Dry or Deadpan Humor (Source: UpJokes):

• Call someone to tell them you can’t talk right now.
• Buy a donut and complain that there’s a hole in it.
• Put up a “Lost Dog” poster with a picture of a cat on it.
• Call McDonalds asking for directions to Burger King.

And my husband’s favorite… Go to any fast food restaurant and order a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

Dry Humor Movies

Dry humor movies are generally written with adults in mind, but often the advertising is directed toward kids, making it a challenge to decipher appropriateness. What do adults need to know about dry deadpan humor movies?

Dry humor movies, also known as deadpan comedy, are movies that are known for sarcasm, irony, play on words, puns, subtlety, and expected expressions and rely on the viewer to figure out the punchline or comedic meaning. Because of this, the humor is difficult for children to grasp.

And if children struggle to find the movie funny, then it’s not going to be an enjoyable experience for them or the accompanying adults.

Children find movies with overt, slapstick humor naturally funny. Movies such as Mr. Bean or SpongeBob SquarePants is riddled with slapstick humor that’s cognitively appropriate for kids’ sense of humor.

Examples of Dry Humor Movies that are NOT appropriate for most kids, but enjoyed by many adults:

• Airplane! (1980)- Though it’s rated for kids at PG, much of the humor will fly over kids’ heads, and the bits that they find funny, like a nun punching a woman in the face, is not really for the reasons it’s intended.
• Spaceballs (1987)- This comedy is a parody of Star Wars, which is certainly going to attract the attention of many under 13s and it’s rated a kid-friendly PG. However, it includes many sexual innuendos and foul language for laughs.
• The Naked Gun: from the Files of Police Squad!(1988)- Another movie featuring comedy fan-favorite, Leslie Nielson, is described at IMdB as a movie starring an incompetent policeman disastrously trying to foil an assassination attempt on royalty. It’s more appropriately rated PG-13, so parents can be wise to the mature themes.
• Robin Hood: Men In Tights (1993)- This dry humor movie is another parody; this one of the original, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. This one is also PG-13, providing some caution for parents just by the rating alone. And when consulting the IMDb Parent’s Guide, you’ll find it rates ‘moderate’ in the sex and nudity, as well as profanity categories.

For further related reading, I highly recommend these other articles on our site:

• Is Marvel Humor Child Friendly? (Dark Humor And Kids)
• Funny Things That Kids Will Laugh At (Easy to Do)
• Stupid, Funny Movies The Whole Family Can Watch

Dry Humor TV Shows

Dry humor TV shows were the rage in the 1990s and early 2000s. Shows like Seinfeld, and its naughtier version, Curb Your Enthusiasm, ran for many seasons and enjoyed both critical and popular acclaim, resulting in many TV awards. So what do parents need to know about dry humor TV shows?

Dry humor TV shows, like dry humor movies, are not recommended for most children and should only be used with pre-teens and teens with advanced understanding of humor. Recognized for subtle play on words, use of irony and sarcasm, as well as deadpan expressions, dry humor TV is best left for adults.

So how can parents (and grandparents, teachers, coaches, and so on) know what dry humor movies are appropriate for their kids? Especially when given that movie ratings can’t really be trusted as reliable!

Tips for knowing if a comedy is appropriate for your child:

• Check IMDb’s Parent Guide: This is much more clear than a rating system. The Parent Guide divides information into categories such as profanity; sex and nudity; violence and gore; and alcohol and drugs. This way parents (or anyone else interested) can find out not only what kinds of instances are in the movie but also how many!
• Review it on Common Sense Media: Unlike IMDb, Common Sense Media is a nonprofit, that uses experts and research as its basis for providing information to parents and teachers regarding kid media.
• Vet it yourself: Ultimately, you are the best judge for what your children view. Whether a parent or grandparent, or a teacher in charge of a classroom of kids, you are the guardian for the kids in your charge, so take that seriously. Spend some time previewing what you select before showing or sharing it with minors. This way you can truly feel confident about the content.

Dry Humor Shows & Movies- A Parent’s Guide Takeaway

The takeaway for parents, et al is to be vigilant about what you decide to put in front of your children at home or the classroom. And keep in mind that dry humor/deadpan movies and TV shows are generally not the best bet for minors under 13 as the humor approach is not aligned with their development.

However, with proper vetting either using resources like IMDb, Common Sense Media, or just simply previewing it yourself, you can feel confident in your choices. After all, your children and students are worth the extra bit of time it takes!

For further related reading, I highly recommend these other articles on our site:

• Is Marvel Humor Child Friendly? (Dark Humor And Kids)
• Funny Things That Kids Will Laugh At (Easy to Do)
• Stupid, Funny Movies The Whole Family Can Watch

Anyone considering writing comedy books for kids or adults should master certain universal writing techniques and tips, in addition to humor. For example, knowing your audience and developing characters with a well-crafted narrative are necessary in comedy writing just as they are in any genre.

As a teacher for almost 20 years, I’ve taught writing just as long and know from the experience that incorporating humor is no easy task (for kids and adults alike). However, there are some universal good writing techniques and tips that can be learned in order to develop comedic writing. I’m happy to highlight some of those in the sections below.

One way to build humor with your kids is to use it strategically through routines or regular activities. For instance, our Fun Jokes For Kids Coloring Book is a great tool for embedding humor through kid-friendly activity.

Comedy Writing Secrets

Some might wonder what’s the secret to making comedy writing work? What is it that separates the successful comedic writers from the ones we never know?

Comedy writing secrets are not secrets at all if you study successful comedy writers. Successful comedy writers don’t forget the basics of good story writing like character development and always seem to be writing, so that they’re ready to find humor in the everyday or the out-of-the ordinary.

For example, Kent Osborne, the head writer of the popular kids cartoon, Adventure Time on Cartoon Network, said he follows the fundamentals when writing kid comedy for the show. One fundamental is to start with a pre-writing exercise, that is to just brainstorm.

“Sometimes, we’ll come in and we’ll say, what did everyone do this weekend?”

-Kent Osborne, head writer of Adventure Time

By thinking about ‘what you did this weekend’ or better yet, journaling or writing down as you live it, you’re better able to pinpoint funny components of the day or zero in on an out-of-the-ordinary thing that you can share comedically.

Osborne said another method is to focus on character development. This means fully understanding the characters you create, giving them backstories and internal and external character traits.

When writing, it is common to get what’s known as ‘writer’s block’ so having many well-developed characters can help combat that. When you are able to bounce around from one character to the next, you are less likely to become stagnate and have more opportunity to find the funny, so to speak.

And keep in mind that these tips or ‘secrets’ are not actually focused on humor in the beginning. Yet, they are essential for the possibility of bringing in humor.

TIP 1: All stories, even comedies for kids, need what your 1st grade teacher taught you- a beginning, middle, and end.

Teaching Humor In Writing

As a public school teacher, I learned early on that any genre of writing can be tackled with the basics. So how do you teach humor in writing?

Teaching humor in writing should be a step-by-step process just like with any other writing. Teaching writing must first focus on the writing basics, necessary for moving to deeper thinking like humor. Then, it’s important to directly teach humor devices and techniques for creating comedy.

Believe it or not, teaching writing for kids, teens, and adults starts the same way and in fact, includes most of the same information even as you progress. Admittedly, the depth of the material grows more complex just as your student does, however.

As someone with multiple teaching credentials, I have taught just about all ages, from 6 to college age, how to write. And it’s been my experience that emphasis on the fundamentals is what’s needed for everyone.

One book for teachers of humor writing that I recommend is 180 Days of Writing for Third Grade – An Easy-to-Use Third Grade Writing Workbook to Practice and Improve Writing Skills (available on Amazon). I know it seems unlikely that one book could be useful for multiple grades and ages, but as someone who’s been there and done that-across three states even, I assure you it works!

A book such as this one designed for 3rd grade is useful for everyone for a number of reasons. First, using ready-made material like this provides a variety of practice (from opinion writing to informational to fiction) and no matter the age of your students, they need lots of practice, and variety as they do!

Second, it is direct and targeted in its focus, including grammar instruction. One of the things I’ve seen swing in focus across education like a pendulum is grammar, but as someone who’s spent decades in the institution, I can wholeheartedly say grammar is vital! Don’t be fooled thinking otherwise!

And finally, it’s customizable. Books like this are easy to tweak and modify for an older audience or to simplify for even younger ones. For example, your older kids or teens will not likely take to ‘baby work’ so you won’t use this as is.

All teachers know that the best material is when you tailor it to your current students, so this is no different. But I highly encourage using material like this to guide you as you teach humor writing for students, whether they are 6 or 66, for that matter.

There’s a common misconception that humor cannot be taught, that one is either funny or not. However, research such as this study supports teaching humor and the idea of improving humor competence. This is aligned with directly teaching humor devices, both recognizing them as well as application.

As such, humor devices (i.e. figurative language, puns, riddles and so on) should be taught explicitly. As well, knowing how to incorporate them properly is what can make material work for kids, or not.

For example, irony and sarcasm are excellent humor devices, but they should be used sparingly (if at all) with younger kids. However, these devices are quite appropriate for teens and adults.

TIP 2: Write about what you know.

Suggested related reading:

• Are There Books On Being Funny? (More Than You’d Think)
• Top 187 Books That Make Children Laugh (Teacher Reveals)
• This Is What Humor Devices Are (Teacher Reveals)

Best Comedy Writers Books

Most all successful, well-known comedians have released their memoirs and one thing common among them all is that they were inspired by others to be funny. So what books are best for budding comedy writers to read and study?

Best comedy writers books fit into two categories: the cream of the crop books by best comedy writers, providing insight into their brand of humor and tips for success and second, those books best at detailing the craft of comedy writing, necessary for anyone interested in comedy to master.

To find best comedy writers books, you first should look at who are known for being tops in the field of comedy. Once you’ve established that, you’re able to figure out their niche or brand of humor and the what made them so successful at it.

 “Whenever I came up with a funny bit, whether it happened on a stage, in a conversation, or working it out on my preferred canvas, the big yellow legal pad, I kept it in one of those old school accordion folders.”

-Jerry Seinfeld, comedian/actor

For instance, Jerry Seinfeld is one of the most well-known and successful comedians today. His comedy writing niche is about observational humor. Seinfeld writes about his techniques in his book, Is This Anything? (free with an Audible membership). In it, Seinfeld explains how he develops and maintains his jokes in minute detail.

Then, there are those other books to help comedy writers, the ones that are instructional and let you peek behind the curtain of writing comedy. One of the most suggested books for this is Step by Step to Stand Up Comedy by Greg Dean.

In Step by Step, Dean breaks down how to write a joke, as well as teaches the principles and techniques of being funny, which is what you’re looking for in ‘how-to’ informational, instructional comedy writers texts.

TIP 3: Understand your audience.

• Best Book to Make Preschoolers Laugh: The Wonky Donkey by Craig Smith with almost 60,000 reviews & 4.8 out of 5 on Amazon
• Best Book to Make Intermediate Kids Laugh: The Deep End (Diary of a Wimpy Kid Book 15) (free with an Audible Trial) by Jeff Kinney
• Best Book to Make Middle Schoolers Laugh: Secret Agent 6th Grader  by Marcus Emerson with reviews like “Great for kids, entertaining for grownups!”

Comedy Writing Theory

What is it that makes some things funny and some things not, or rather, why are some people funnier than others? Why do some comedy shows bring all the laughs while others fall flat?

Comedy writing theory deals with a common notion of what’s funny and why we laugh. This means looking at the science behind humor such as ideas of superiority to incongruity. Once humor is better understood, it’s easier to replicate comedy appropriately.

First, let’s briefly consider the science behind humor, which has intrigued humans and been a part of literature from earliest written examples (after all, Homer’s The Odyssey has many humorous elements for the reader of the adventures of the unfortunate protagonist, Odysseus).

There are four main theories of humor, according to Dr. Asa Berger, as written in Europe’s Journal of Psychology (2013). Those are superiority, incongruity, cognitive ‘conflict’, and psychoanalytic issues. For details, I urge you to read the cited research, but I’ll explain here the most popular theory: incongruity.

Incongruity theory of humor is “based on the difference between what we expect and what we get…”

-Asa Berger, Professor Emeritus of San Francisco University

Basically, the most popular theory of comedy is that we laugh when something doesn’t happen the way we expect it to. Of course, instances of this doesn’t ensure laughter. It may indeed lead to the opposite! Take for instance a car wreck. We don’t expect it (otherwise, we’d avoid it, most likely) and we certainly aren’t to laugh afterwards.

But…when we do laugh, it’s usually when something unexpected happened.

Then, there is the idea of universal humor. These are examples that are in line with the theory of incongruity. In some ways humor is the same everywhere; and then there is more regional or localized humor.

Humor that is common no matter where you are is often referred to as universal humor. While there are exceptions, of course, an example of universal humor is slapstick, overt, over-the-top kinds of humor. Someone getting a pie in the face, falling down stairs (providing no one is hurt), or dancing silly are instances that people find funny regardless of background, culture, or age.

Another example of universal humor is silly animal or baby behavior. When a dog or baby does something goofy, it just seems to transcend barriers for laughs!

Now, once this generalized, yet scientific theory of humor is understood, then one is able to think about the theory of comedy writing. It’s writing and comedy come together.

TIP 4: Use the fundamentals for writing.

The Punchline for Writing Comedy Books

To recap, writing comedy books is similar to any kind of writing and then, again, a bit different.

First, look at it from the basics. Writing fundamentals are needed for writing comedy books. Good writing practices and exercises are the foundation. From grammar to story development to drafting, it’s essential to take writing seriously, even when the goal is to write comedy.

Last, don’t forget that the best comedy writers, although possibly naturally funny, need to understand humor devices and techniques for writing comedy successfully. And for grandparents, parents, and teachers who may not be naturally funny, the good news is that humor can be learned!

For further reading, I highly recommend my related articles:

• Are There Books On Being Funny? (More Than You’d Think)
• Top 187 Books That Make Children Laugh (Teacher Reveals)
• This Is What Humor Devices Are (Teacher Reveals)

As for books on being funny, there are more than you’d initially think. From self-help books for building a sense of humor to how to write funny to books that can be used comedically, there’s almost an infinite amount of books to help you improve your use of humor tactics.

As a teacher for almost two decades, I’ve relied on a sense of humor from time to time to not only get me to the 3 o’clock bell, but also to help me teach admittedly boring material to kids who’d rather be at recess. And humor didn’t come naturally to me, either. Fortunately, I discovered through trial and error that humor is a learned skill and books are quite useful for that process!

One way to build humor with your kids is to use it strategically through routines or regular activities. For instance, our Fun Jokes For Kids Coloring Book is a great tool for embedding humor through kid-friendly activity.

Books To Improve Humor

As a teacher, it’s no surprise to most who meet me that I enjoy reading. In fact, it’s not an exaggeration to say I’ve read thousands of books over my lifetime, but have I ever encountered books to improve humor?

There are certainly books designed to improve humor, most notably books that are informationally driven and provide insight into humor tactics. However, other books can improve humor, too, by teaching it indirectly, such as classical literature like works of Homer, Shakespeare, and Twain.

Research abounds supporting the importance of a sense of humor, so much so that most specialists (as well as the general population) rank it tops as desirable on character trait lists. Now further studies are being done to verify humor intervention programs to build humor and/or teach humor tactics to aid well-being in other parts of life.

And research shows us more about humor, too. For instance, there’s research to show humor’s positive effects on resiliency, coping, and stress and other research about humor’s significant impact in the classroom on learning and rapport.

This means humor, and humor-related books in particular, are recommended for use with kids. Parents, for instance, can use bedtime books with a funny bent with their children. Humor naturally engages kids and holds their interests. It’s also a way for parents to improve their relationship with their children and strengthen their family bond.

3 Funny Books I recommend for Parents to Read Aloud (over and over)

Teachers can also use classic literature with a humorous tone in order to improve their own sense of humor and present themselves as humorous with kids. Works of Homer like The Odyssey is known for its exciting adventure but there is also humorous dialogue and situations that will surprise (and interest) students.

I still remember my middle schoolers laughing out loud at the confrontation between protagonist Odysseus and the one-eyed Cyclops called ‘Nobody.’ If you haven’t read The Odyssey or don’t remember this section, I urge you to look it up! I bet you’ll find it just as hilarious as my former students.

Likewise, Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing is one of the funniest of his plays to share with students. Teachers who struggle with humor or ‘being funny’, can take advantage of humorous classical lit as a way to make themselves more relatable to students.

“I can see he’s not in your good books,’ said the messenger.

‘No, and if he were I would burn my library.”

― William Shakespeare, Much Ado About Nothing

Parents, teachers, and anyone in charge of children can also use books that directly work to build or improve humor. Many comedians, from Jerry Seinfeld to Aisha Tyler, have written their memoirs to explain how they use humor, and these can be helpful for building humor indirectly.

Also, there are books by psychologists and other specialists on improving humor that commonly tie in self-confidence and health. The idea is that a person working to build a good sense of humor can also increase self-confidence, alleviate stress, and generally improve professional and personal relationships.

“I’m here as your advocate, to equip you to utilize humor so you can build your self-confidence, which will eventually contribute to becoming funnier and kickstart a healthy symbiotic relationship…”

Dana Williams, Easily Make People Laugh: How to Build Self-Confidence and Improve Your Humor

How To Be Funny Book

As a teacher, I had to learn ways to be funny. One way to help with that process is using a direct approach such as taking a comedy course or reading ‘how to be funny’ books. So what do you need to know about how to be funny books?

How to be funny books are books that teach a step-by-step process or formula for being funny that can be applied in most situations. Books like this are a helpful guide for comedic beginners or those struggling with humor devices, and are recommended for growing humor.

How to Write Funny: Your Serious, Step-By-Step Blueprint for Creating Incredibly, Irresistibly, Successfully Hilarious Writing (free with a new Audible membership) by Scott Dikkers provides a detailed explanation to writing funny, using a tried and true (according to the author) formula. Judging by the popular Amazon reviews and 4.5 out of 5 rating, it seems Dikkers is on to something.

Other books can help you be funny in everyday life. For instance, You Can Be Funny and Make People Laugh: No Fluff. No Theories. 35 Humor Techniques that Work for Everyday Conversations (available on Amazon) is about how to use humor devices and tactics in casual situations. This is an excellent, direct approach to improving your sense of humor.

For related reading, I recommend these articles on humor:

• Top 187 Books That Make Children Laugh (Teacher Reveals)
• 6 Things That Determine Sense of Humor
• I Have No Sense Of Humor: How Can I Make Kids Laugh?

Books On Being Funny

As a teacher, I found some books on being funny better than others for classroom use. From books with witty dialogue and silly scenarios to books written by educators that describe humor approaches, I’m happy to share what I’ve found most useful.

Books on being funny can work in the classroom as well as the home. From books written for teachers and parents about using humor with children to books written directly for children that are funny, the only caveat is knowing your purpose for books on being funny prior to making your selection.

It’s important to know your reasoning or purpose for books on being funny. If you are a teacher, you might want to use books to engage your students. Research tells us that engagement and motivation are keys to long term learning, after all. And nothing engages kids as easily as funny books.

Example: When I was teaching adding and subtracting decimals, particularly with money, to my 3rd graders, I didn’t just teach steps for properly regrouping tens and hundreds. Rather, I found Alexander, Who Used To Be Rich Last Sunday (free with an Audible trial membership) by Judith Viorst. It’s a great, AND FUNNY, story about a little boy who loses and sometimes gains money over the course of a week.

Then, there are books on being funny to counteract life’s problems. For example, there are ‘funny books’ to help with sadness and depression. These books spotlight a different area of humor, almost an opposite side. One book is called Just Peachy: Comics About Depression, Anxiety, Love, and Finding the Humor in Being Sad by Holly Chisholm.

Chisholm used writing about her mental illness through a humorous scope as her own personal therapy, which can be helpful for others with related issues.

And then there are books that teach teachers how to appropriately and successfully use humor in the classroom.

Humor is helpful not only to teachers in traditional classrooms, but also teachers of children in church, as well as parents and grandparents, coaches, and so on. As said before, anyone working with or in charge of children will benefit from humor know-how.

Teaching with Comedy: A Guide For Using Humor in the Classroom by teacher Evan Hoovler, is one such book that I recommend for this purpose. It’s full of light-hearted but real stories from a teacher’s decades-long experience and how humor played a major role in his students’ learning, and in his longevity and dare I say, sanity!

How To Write A Funny Book

One way to express humor is through writing it yourself. Whether you’re a grandparent wanting to send jokes to your grandchild or a person who’s always desired to be a stand-up comedian, there are many how-to books for being funny on paper.

How to write a funny book may seem simple at first, but it’s as complicated as writing any book. While books about comedy can help with humor, good writing techniques including proper grammar, organization, and structure are necessary regardless of audience or genre.

Writing any book well is an in depth process, not to be taken lightly, even if it’s a funny book. It requires organization, planning, diligent work to put thoughts to paper (most likely, digital paper), revision time, more editing, and if all goes as hoped, publishing. And if ‘funny’ is the goal, then there’s work to make that happen too.

To check for humor, make sure you target your audience. Older kids and teens will like funny books that include sarcasm, irony, and embarrassing situations and mishaps while younger kids need more over-the-top humor or funny, silly words repeated a lot.

Types of Funny Books You Could Write:

• Comic strip books like Calvin And Hobbes
• Graphic Novels like Big Nate or Captain Underpants
• Picture Books like Dr. Seuss books
• Jokes and Riddles books

We even have a joke coloring book, Fun Jokes For Kids Coloring Book you can check out for inspiration (available on Amazon). Each page has an easy-to-color illustration and an accompanying joke or riddle made just for kids. This is a good type to try as a beginner, especially if you have drawing capabilities.

Best Books On Comedy

I listed a few recommendations for funny books already in sections above. However, what are the best books on comedy?

Best books on comedy are books that explain the thought process behind humor, while providing laughs too. Look for informational books that provide the ins and outs of comedy, but present the material humorously, as well as, books by notable comedians that can give a personal side to humor.

Is This Anything? by comedian Jerry Seinfeld (also available with an Audible membership) was released in 2020. In it, Seinfeld recounts the evolution over 5 decades of his jokes and joke style. As one of the highest earning comedians in history, being ranked first in 2017 by Forbes, it’s evident that Seinfeld knows his comedy potential.

Some Suggested Reading for Best Books On Comedy:

• The Comedians: Drunks, Thieves, Scoundrels and the History of American Comedy– This history book of comedy is debatably the best place to start in order to learn about comedy. It presents 100 years of comedy material, with more detail than you could imagine!
• Mastering Stand-Up: The Complete Guide to Becoming a Successful Comedian– Even though it’s written for budding stand-up comedians, any teacher in front of a room of students could benefit from some of the tips for humor!
• The New Comedy Bible: The Ultimate Guide to Writing and Performing Stand-Up Comedy– I especially think the writing tips make this book ‘best of’ material for parents, grandparents, teachers, or anyone thinking of writing funny material for kids.

The Punchline For Books On Being Funny

Books on being funny surpass just joke books, though joke books are one avenue to go down.

From books that take a psychological look at humor to books about improving a sense of humor to books about writing funny lines…not to mention, humorous books you can read aloud, there’s a plethora of material to help anyone looking to laugh or make someone else laugh!

The main thing is to not be intimidated, know your purpose, and then, have fun on your journey through books about being funny!

For further reading, I suggest these articles on sense of humor and laughter:

• Top 187 Books That Make Children Laugh (Teacher Reveals)
• 6 Things That Determine Sense of Humor
• I Have No Sense Of Humor: How Can I Make Kids Laugh?

Cartoons are for kids because of the vibrant colors, zany animation, and kid-friendly plots designed to grab and keep their attention. However, adults often find cartoons enjoyable too. Because of this, creators commonly insert hidden adult themes like politics, religion, and relationships.

As a mom, grandmother, and retired teacher, I’ve learned to appreciate the effect cartoons have on kids. And also learned that cartoons can be enjoyed by both kids and adults alike. However, cartoons are for kids and plot themes are better left kid-friendly, rather than hiding adult innuendo within double meaning dialogue and illustrations.

Why People Say Cartoons Are For Kids

It’s no surprise to parents, grandparents, teachers, or anyone in charge of kids that cartoons are kids’ prime selection for something to watch. But why is it that some people say cartoons are for kids?

People say cartoons are for kids because cartoons are designed especially to grab and hold kids’ attention. Kids are naturally attracted to the animation and vibrant colors of cartoons. Then, the quick-pace, simple story arc, kid-friendly language, and fun/funny characters hold kids’ attention.

A 1995 report from Ed.Gov stated that not only are cartoons generally for kids but questioned why some adults watch them anyway.

In this same study, it analyzed random episodes of the cartoon, Animaniacs, and found that “certain recurring themes within the programs were identified” such as an emphasis on academics, studying, and learning as well as pointing out the problems with ego, selfishness, and bad manners toward others.

The author urged further scholarly study on cartoons and how they may actually be used by educators and parents to promote desired behavior in children.

Cartoons are a natural vehicle for teaching children. They make learning fun. As a teacher, I often included cartoon clips anytime I could. Whether it was a SpongeBob SquarePants segment with Mr. Krabs to teach math or a clip from Scooby Doo to introduce a reading unit on mysteries, I knew I could hook and engage students via cartoons.

One way to build humor with your kids is to use it strategically through routines or regular activities. For instance, our Fun Jokes For Kids Coloring Book is a great tool for embedding humor through kid-friendly activity.

Today’s cartoons also frequently contain plot themes that connect with kids such as making or losing friends, bullying, growing up, fear, embarrassing situations, and family issues. Surprisingly, creators regularly include positive messages too.

These plots and messages target children, not adults.

Why Adults Like Cartoons For Kids

Cartoons are a big business for movie companies, toy makers, the game industry, and more; and not just because they attract kids and families. Many adults like cartoons, too and this market addition has actually caused some animators to target adults directly as well. What makes adults like cartoons for kids?

Many adults like cartoons for kids. Though kids cartoons are simplistic, adults often enjoy the nostalgia of being a kid when watching them. But not just that; animators commonly embed adult humor in cartoons, even cartoons for kids.

One 2008 report studied the connection between kid-intended cartoons and multiplayer online video games. This surge into the digital video game realm certainly grabbed the attention of teens and adults who make up the largest demographic in that media outlet.

Eric Smoodin of American University in Washington, D.C. published Animating Culture: Hollywood Cartoons From the Sound Era (available on Amazon) in 1993. In it, Smoodin addresses how cartoons, though originally designed for children, eventually represented the many facets and dynamics of culture, from politics to religion and more, which attracted the focus of adults.

Many adults like cartoons they grew up with such as The Flintstones, Scooby-Doo, He-Man and She-Ra, and The Smurfs. As adults deal with job and relationship stresses, they’ve found comfort in cartoons that remind them of their easy-going childhood days.

The popularity of older cartoons has even led to some big screen success too, with their movie versions aiming to capture both children’s patronage, as well as their parents’.

Because teenagers and adults have become avid cartoon watchers, more cartoons have started to be made just for the older crowd as well. Some of these, like South Park and Futurama, make no disguise of it either, with their TV-14 and TV-MA (mature) ratings. However, this can be problematic.

Children are attracted to South Park, Futurama, and other adult-targeted cartoons because at first glance, you can’t distinguish them from kid cartoons. As well, many parents (or grandparents, etc.) think that if it’s animated, they can just assume that it’s kid-appropriate, but that’s not always the case.

It’s prudent to use Common Sense Media, IMDb, or some other vetting system to check on any animated films or shows (cartoons) to make sure it’s for children BEFORE showing to children.

In addition, an entire sub-genre of cartoons is targeted for teens and adults, called Anime.

This stands for ‘animation’ and has come to be known as Japanese cartoons. It has specific stylized characters with spikey hair, large eyes, and flashy, skimpy clothing, as well as quite mature plots, making it certainly not intended for kids, though many children are enthralled by the illustrations once seen.

For more about humor media and kids, try these articles:

• Is Marvel Humor Child Friendly? (Dark Humor And Kids)
• Stupid, Funny Movies The Whole Family Can Watch
• Try These Top 9 TV Shows Guaranteed To Make Your Kid Laugh!

Why Are They Called Cartoons?

Cartoons are well-known all over the world, with SpongeBob SquarePants usually rated tops globally. But what is actually meant by cartoon and why are they called that?

The word cartoon has changed a lot. First derived from the Italian word cartone, a cartoon originally meant the paper with a drawing on it; then it evolved to mean the drawing itself and later became known as a humorous drawing like a comic strip. Today a cartoon refers to an animated movie.

According to Oldest.Org, the cartoon most often credited as the first ‘true’ cartoon was created in 1914 by American artist, Winsor McCay and is called Gertie the Dinosaur. It’s 12 minutes long with a full story arc.

Gertie is recognized for having all the common components of animation or a ‘cartoon’ with “registration marks, keyframes, tracing paper, animation loops, and the Mutoscope action viewer.”

What Do Kids Like In Cartoons?

Movies like The Lion King and Frozen have made billions of dollars worldwide, so it really should be no surprise that movie makers want to know what it is about cartoons that kids like in order to replicate that profit. So what is it about cartoons that appeals so much to kids?

Kids commonly prefer cartoons over other movie genres. They like the fast-paced plot, simple story arc, fun characters, and vibrant color scheme characteristic of cartoons. Most cartoons also have catchy phrases or songs as well as patterns or repetition that make them enjoyable to most kids.

For example, I’ve already mentioned that SpongeBob SquarePants is most often recognized as the favorite cartoon around the world. SpongeBob SquarePants is so popular because it has all of these cartoon characteristics kids like, such as a catchy theme song, quick story plots, lots of color, and funny characters.

There’s also a repetition to the SpongeBob episodes too: SpongeBob professes his love of Krabby patty burgers; Gary, his pet snail, meows like a cat; his best friend, starfish Patrick messes something up; Mr. Krabs, his boss, talks about money; and neighbor and co-worker Squidward is annoyed by SpongeBob.

Kids also like that cartoons have a fast pace and seem to bounce around, creating a sense of constant movement. However, the rapidity of cartoons and the quick change of scenery has led to some accusations of problems with children’s executive functioning and attention-span.

“Executive function is a set of cognitive skills that are needed for self-control and managing behaviors…self-control, working memory, and mental flexibility.”

VeryWellMind.Com

Teachers, especially, complained (complain) that cartoons have impaired children’s ability to follow directions, take turns, listen to others, play well, and/or sustain attention past five minutes. As a teacher for almost two decades, I’ve heard my fair share of teacher complaints regarding cartoons.

One study looked into this according to Pediatrics from 2011. It found plausible influence of media in having both a positive and negative impact on children and urged being more mindful use of media with kids, including quantity and quality of programming.

Were Cartoons Originally Made For Adults?

From The Simpsons to King of the Hill, today there are many popular cartoons designed with just adults in mind. So were cartoons made for adults in the beginning?

Though it may be surprising, original animated movies or cartoons often depicted adult themes and humor, including sexualized characters like Betty Boop. However, cartoons changed to a more kid-centered focus after motion picture and film guidelines were put into place in the 1930s.

Once tv and film producers and writers shifted focus to kids almost entirely, cartoons left behind many adult scenarios and characters and shifted to kid interests like talking animals or kid-centric messages like eating your vegetables.

The simple animations, colors, and flash made it a no brainer with parents willing to shell out big bucks for their children even when they wouldn’t for themselves.

However, the change wasn’t instantaneous or all-inclusive. Just take Popeye the Sailor Man, for example.

Popeye is a tattooed sailor who smokes a pipe and gets into fights over his girlfriend, Olive Oil. Yet, the positive message of eating nutritiously was also included with Popeye growing stronger every time he ate spinach, which was directed at kids to eat more veggies.

Mickey Mouse was first introduced in 1928 and it was enjoyed by both adults and kids. Yet, it’s certainly arguable that Mickey was more adult-minded. Mickey was flirtatious and a bit of a rascal, getting into troubles typical of older teens or young adults.

Then, there are the cartoons of the 40s and 50s to consider.

Bugs Bunny and friends often drank alcohol to the point of drunkenness; got into several fights; used weapons on each other as well as themselves (e.g. shooting themselves in the head); included the afterlife of heaven and hell; and depicted modern pop culture references like the famous ‘Rat Pack’ and World War 2.

These are decidedly more adult than child focused.

So, does this mean cartoons are not for kids? That cartoons, if originally for adults, are only for adults?

No, not at all! As explained already, the characteristics of animated movies make them ideal for children, not adults, which is why they’ve genuinely evolved into child entertainment!

Recommended Cartoons For Kids

Kids like cartoons, but are cartoons actually recommended for kids? To be specific, what particular cartoons are beneficial for kids to watch?

There are some cartoons more beneficial for kids to watch than others, making them suitable recommendations. From Phineas and Ferb to Peppa the Pig, certain cartoons can help kids improve their cognitive learning and language skills, as well as teach them empathy and other important social skills.

Though cartoons like the aforementioned and beloved SpongeBob SquarePants are fun for kids to watch, they aren’t tops on most lists of recommendations. For one, kids will naturally gravitate to silly, colorful, funny cartoons like SpongeBob, so there’s no need to recommend them.

Recommending SpongeBob is like recommending candy; kids are gonna find it without a tip!

However, top cartoon recommendations by child specialists are going to look for something a bit deeper and richer. Cartoons with substance so to speak (though, SpongeBob is debatably quite deep at times!)

Recommended cartoons for kids are visually and audibly-catching in order to grab kids’ attention; yet they’ll also have a positive message, varied and diverse language, complete story arcs, possible archetypes or references to relevant topics, and more.

As a teacher, I often looked for cartoons to use in class that connected to history, science, or math, etc. For instance, I looked for cartoons that incorporated idioms and other figurative language examples I could use during language arts or cartoons that had examples to show fractions or probability to connect with math units I was teaching.

Teachers, and other child specialists, also like to recommend slower paced cartoons to teach children how to wait for a story. We know as educators that providing ‘wait time’ is a way for students to ponder the plot and think more in order to anticipate the conclusion. This helps children work on problem solving in a low-stakes manner.

Some Under-rated Cartoons I Recommend From a Teacher-Perspective:

• The Magic School Bus
• Scooby-Doo
• StoryBots
• Tom and Jerry
• DuckTales
• Hey Arnold!
• Dragon Tales
• Martha Speaks
• Sagwa, the Chinese Siamese Cat
• Wishbone (although this stars a live dog, it’s still worthy to recommend!)

The titles recommended above, although somewhat still popular, are less apt to grab kids’ attention without some prominent display. In full disclosure, I based my selections upon their slower pace, educational content, and emphasis on building language, academics, and social skills, but also know that their appealing visuals and stories will appeal to most kids once introduced.

The Punchline for Cartoons Are For Kids

If you’re a child of the 70s and 80s like me, you’ll probably know the Trix cereal commercial about a rabbit who kept trying to steal the Trix cereal from kids. It always ended with the rabbits failure and the cartoon kid saying, “Silly, Rabbilt! Trix are for kids!”

Well, that’s what I say about cartoons. “Silly, adults! Cartoons are for kids!”

It’s true that adults can enjoy cartoons made for kids, but the focus should not change. Cartoons should be created with an intention for kids’ enjoyment.

Creating adult cartoons is tricky. Although not wrong in theory, adult cartoons have adult themes and messages and should not be accessible to children, even though it’s natural for children to be interested.

Parents (and any others in charge of children) need to be cautious when selecting cartoons for their children to ensure that the selections are child-centered and appropriate.

For further reading about humor media and kids, I recommend these articles:

• Is Marvel Humor Child Friendly? (Dark Humor And Kids)
• Stupid, Funny Movies The Whole Family Can Watch
• Try These Top 9 TV Shows Guaranteed To Make Your Kid Laugh!

Stupid, funny movies can be an excellent option for families with children of all ages. Funny movies using stupid antics and silly banter provide a low stakes activity for families to enjoy together. However, parents should use caution because not all stupid, funny movies are family-friendly.

As parents of four children (now mostly grown), we’ve watched countless movies together. However, there are definitely some movies better for family viewing than others. Let me share what we’ve learned from our experience with stupid, funny movies to hopefully inform your next family movie night!

What Makes Movies ‘Stupid, Funny’

From the basic drama, comedy, horror, action , and documentaries to a slue of subcategories, movie genres can get complicated. Comedies alone include romantic comedy, dark comedy, slapstick, satire, parody or spoof, and I’m probably sure even more. So what makes movies ‘stupid funny’?

Stupid, funny movies are movies that make you laugh without resorting to sexual innuendo, insults, or being mean to get laughs. They’re stupid, but not necessarily simple. Surprisingly, the best stupid, funny movies are quite thoughtful in their approach to humor.

And stupid, funny movies make the perfect family night movie choice. Before moving on, let’s look at why this is important.

A study published in Media International (Vol 139) in 2011 focused on emotions surrounding the concept of ‘family movie night’ as it pertained to university students. It found that this idea and subsequent practice or event evoked “a set of comforting and enriching” recollections and played an important role in family harmony.

One student said, “when the movie started, we all got along.”

So being able to spend time with your family is what matters. You may choose to do hobbies together, enjoy several family meals each week (daily if at all possible) with your family, or schedule weekly family movie nights.

For those thinking weekly movie time with your kids isn’t that important, well now you see there’s research to support it. So keeping that in mind, let’s look at how to identify stupid, funny movies appropriate for your family.

Let’s look at two stupid, funny movies that get some things right:

• Zootopia
• The Princess Bride

Movies That Make You Laugh Without Being Mean

It’s certainly not fun for your family to sit down, popcorn in hand, and start the movie only to find it’s inappropriate to finish. How do you determine stupid, funny movies from the other comedies out there?

Movies that make you laugh without being mean are stupid, funny. Stupid, funny movies are movies that don’t resort to insults or other mean behavior to get laughs. After all, mean is not funny nor is it something parents want to teach to children for the sake of humor.

You can figure this out with due diligence about the movie beforehand. Parents can use online resources for guidance such as Common Sense Media and IMDb‘s Parents Guide to learn about movies before selecting them for their family to watch.

As well as online resources, parents can read movie reviews critically in order to figure out if the movie is stupid, funny, and family appropriate. This is important whether your kids are 4 or 14.

Funny, Silly Movies…With Substance

Stupid, funny movies are not just movies that don’t use insults. Stupid, funny movies are surprisingly thoughtful in their approach.

The best stupid, funny movies may seem stupid in their banter or silly plot, but surprisingly, their approach to humor is quite smart. Though characters act silly or say dumb things, which is part of why the movie is considered stupid, funny, the plot as well as the dialogue are often carefully crafted.

In fact, this is what truly sets some stupid, funny movies apart from others.

For example, let’s look at The Princess Bride, a movie released in 1987. This is a comedy that has held up for well over 30 years.

Renowned movie critic Roger Ebert wrote in his review of the film, “Both films [This is Spinal Tap and The Princess Bride] are funny not only because they contain comedy, but because Reiner does justice to the underlying form of his story.”

In other words, the best stupid, funny movies, the ones that will last decades, are those that have depth, behind their stupid antics for laughs.

For more about humor and your kids, I recommend these articles:

• Is Marvel Humor Child Friendly? (Dark Humor And Kids)
• How To Bring Humor Into The House (Explained)
• Try These Top 9 TV Shows Guaranteed To Make Your Kid Laugh!

What Makes Stupid Movies Un-Funny

Now on first glance, many movies might seem to fit the stupid, funny category (especially, ‘the stupid’). But there are definitely more that actually do not. So what makes some stupid comedies ‘un-funny’, you may ask?

What separates good ‘stupid, funny movies’ and other comedies meant to be funny but fail are two things: inappropriate jokes and movies that settle for just being stupid. That is, movies where writing lacks depth and thoughtfulness when going for laughs aren’t funny.

Let’s look at these common comedic failures via two examples:

• 2002’s live action, Scooby Doo
• Adam Sandler’s 2011 flick, Jack and Jill.

Movies That Confuse ‘Inappropriate’ And Funny

Besides being mean for laughs, what do parents need to know about some comedies, even those purported to be family-friendly or even family targeted?

Though some comedies target families directly, families are best to steer clear of comedies that rely heavily on potty humor or gross tactics for humor. These movies might make some adolescents laugh, but there are better quality comedies available.

For instance, 2002’s Scooby Doo included live actors as well as a CGI Scooby. It obviously was meant for kids and families, but it’s reliance on fart and burp jokes for its biggest laughs lets you know it’s short on depth and carefully crafted humor.

Now it doesn’t mean you don’t watch this movie. If you happen to parent a super-Scooby fan, then maybe it’s still worth your time (and money) to provide some light enjoyment for your child. However, keep it in perspective.

This movie is not tops in the stupid, funny category. After one viewing, you’ll realize it’s more in the just plain ol stupid category and certainly not worth re-watching (or purchasing).

This is one that won’t really harm your child, certainly not leave life scars; but rather, it’s one where you’ll need to have a conversation afterwards about how inappropriate behavior for laughs is best kept at a discreet minimum.

Movies That Are More Stupid Than Funny

Other than potty/gross humor, parents may also want to avoid many comedies that rely on ‘just stupid’ for funny. What makes some movies just stupid instead of stupid, funny?

Just stupid movies in contrast to stupid, funny movies are movies with haphazard, slipshod writing and lack depth in dialogue or plot. Parents can use respected critic reviews, as well as user reviews from sites like IMDb, for guidance about movies beforehand.

Jack and Jill, Adam Sandler’s 2011 comedy, is a good example of a comedy lacking depth and quality writing. It’s short on humor, though Sandler plays two main characters.

This is one movie kids will probably find humorous the first couple times Sandler pops up on screen dressed as ‘Jill’, but the laughs fall flat quickly. To put this film in proper perspective, it’s rated 3.3 out of 10 by users on IMDb and scored a 23 out of 100 from critic reviews.

Stupid, Funny Movies for Your Children 10 and Under

Now that we know what makes movies stupid funny, and what to avoid, it’s good to have a few movie recommendations to know about, and ready for your next family movie night.

Stupid, funny movies for children 10 and under are movies that often include slapstick and witty banter that any age can enjoy. From Mr. Bean to Monsters, Inc., there are many that fit this description if parents look carefully.

It’s actually vital for parents to provide fun play time for their children, as play has been shown to support child development. And if parents select activities that the whole family can enjoy, it’s even better.

“Play is essential to development because it contributes to the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being of children and youth. Play also offers an ideal opportunity for parents to engage fully with their children.”

Kenneth R. Ginsburg in Pediatrics (2007, Vol 119)

Two movies recommended for families with children 10 and Under are:

• Mr. Bean
• Monsters, Inc

Mr. Bean Is Stupid, Funny Slapstick

Knowing some movies that are not only appropriate for your kids but also stupid, funny to watch for everyone is helpful when planning your movie nights. And having some reliable favorites is even better! That’s where Mr. Bean comes in!

Mr. Bean is a reliable comedy, full of stupid, fun humor and mostly all Mr. Bean films (and there are many) are appropriate for everyone. The slapstick that the character, Mr. Bean, employs frequently is carefully composed so that it’s funny for both adults and children alike.

For example, in Mr. Bean’s Holiday, Mr. Bean is served some oysters in a fancy restaurant because he wasn’t actually able to understand the French speaking waiter. Parents can relate to his dilemma having probably experienced language barriers in their lifetime, while children understand the problem of eating something you don’t like.

Of course, Rowan Atkinson’s trademark facial expressions and body gyrations go along perfectly with the uncomfortable situation, too, making for a very stupid and funny movie!

Special Note: There are several Mr. Bean films and even a long running tv series appropriate for the whole family, being rated G or PG. However, Bean from 1997 is rated PG-13 for “moments of risque humor” so keep that in mind depending on your children’s ages and your personal convictions.

Monsters, Inc Is Stupid Fun for Kids Young and Old

There are also some excellent animated shows for stupid, funny movie watching for the whole family, but they can get lost amid in the mix. Let’s look at an example of one to watch, and what sets it apart from the cartoon multitude.

Monsters, Inc is an excellent option for a stupid, funny film, particularly in the animated genre. It projects as silly stupid, but in actuality is smartly written with its use of sly humor and references to entertain adults while also providing high energy and a plot connecting directly to kids.

To find similar animated stupid, funny movies worthy for 10 and Unders, here are some tips:

• Consider the comics/actors tied to the piece. I know that anything with Billy Crystal and John Goodman have intelligent humor (Another example: Toy Story for Goodman and Crystal is tied to another stupid, funny recommendation: The Princess Bride)
• Read reviews first. And pay attention to the reasons they are rated high or low.
• Watch trailers on IMDb or YouTube beforehand. The trailers should highlight their best jokes so that way you’ll have an idea what to expect.
• Remember you want the humor (slapstick or otherwise) to be thoughtful not just stupid or silly.
• Because your child is ’10 and under’, be aware of the MPAA rating and utilize resources like Common Sense Media.

Stupid, Funny Movies to Watch With Your Tweens and Teens

Your tweens and teens can certainly enjoy the recommended options for ’10 and Unders’ but there are also a few more stupid, funny movies opened to this demographic, too. What are some stupid, funny movies, then, to watch with your tweens and teens?

Stupid, funny movies for tweens and teens include those for younger children but also movies with satire or irony, pop culture references, and movies with a wider vocabulary or situations. From Napoleon Dynamite to Monty Python, there are several that fit this description to entertain tweens/teens.

So one may wonder why is this important for parents of tweens and teens to know?

One study from 2019 found that tweens and teens spend an average of 9 hours a day on media. From film and tv programming to internet surfing to video games and cell phone chatting, the amount of time spent tuned in is expansive!

Commandeering some of that with family movie night is a soft way for mom and dad to embed quality family time.

Here are two movies to watch with tweens and teens:

• Napoleon Dynamite
• Monty Python and the Holy Grail

Mom, Dad, Tweens and Teens Will Enjoy Napoleon Dynamite

Let’s consider what makes Napoleon Dynamite a good stupid, funny option for tweens and teens.

Napoleon Dynamite is stupid, fun humor for tweens and tweens because of its fresh and original take on ordinary and awkward situations and people. It’s able to poke fun and find humor in the relatable ‘everyday’ encounters without putting down its silly, socially inept characters.

For instance, Napoleon has a crush on student, Deb, but somehow ends up fixing up his best friend Pedro with her for the prom instead. Just about every tween, teen, and adult can commiserate with Napoleon on this awkward situation, but we also can laugh at his utter (and stupid) open-mouthed expressions along the way.

Monty Python: An Oldy, But Goody…Stupid And Still Funny

Monty Python and the Holy Grail is another excellent option for something stupid, funny to watch with your tweens or teens.

Monty Python and the Holy Grail is stupid, fun humor for tweens and tweens, as well as adults. It’s quality of humor is smart, taking on religion, history, and politics, amid seemingly stupid antics like bogus opening credits, actors playing ever-changing roles, and servants creating their own sound effects with coconuts throughout the film.

Watching Monty Python with your tweens and teens is hilarious fun but also provides an opportunity to address medieval times; Marxism; religion; and scientific theories. Now what other stupid, funny movie can say that?

“The quality of the humor – irreverent, smart, and challenging – is one of the things that differentiates Monty Python and the Holy Grail from so many other motion picture comedies.”

James Berardinelli for Reel Views

Stupid, Funny Movies to Avoid (Not Family-Friendly)

Of course, there are many comedies targeting families that are not appropriate, unfortunately. Let’s consider what to know about these.

Not all stupid, funny movies are appropriate for families, even if they are funny. Due to the abundance of sexual innuendo and scenes depicting risque behaviors, most Jim Carrey films and those that pair comedians, Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly, should be avoided by families.

As well, parents will find that the movies to avoid listed here are generally rated PG-13 or R, a good clue that the humor isn’t appropriate for families.

Jim Carrey Movies: Stupid, Sometimes Funny, Rarely for Kids

Now granted there are several child-friendly Jim Carrey movies such as Horton Hears A Who!, A Christmas Carrol, and Sonic the Hedgehog. Yet, these films might unduly influence parents and kids to thinking all Jim Carrey movies are family-friendly. Don’t be fooled!

Jim Carrey movies are often funny. He’s well-known for his over-the-top antics and expressions, attributes appealing to kids. However, parents should use caution regarding Jim Carrey movies because many are rated PG-13 or R and contain a profusion of sexual jokes and mature situations.

From Liar, Liar to Ace Ventura to Me, Myself, and Irene, many Jim Carrey movies aren’t appropriate for kids or families to view. Parents should research his films using Common Sense Media, IMDb, or other resources before selecting any film for family movie night involving Jim Carrey.

Avoid Stupid Movies Pairing Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly

Like Jim Carrey, there’s a certain appeal from kids for Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly. But also similar to Jim Carrey, their movies are inappropriate for kids, for the most part. Even though kids, tweens and teens especially, may balk, parents should use reservation with these movies.

The pairing of comedians Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly in funny, stupid films is so successful it keeps getting repeated. Although adults can certainly find humor in their comedies, their films are rated PG-13 and R, making them inappropriate for family viewing.

From Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby to Anchorman to Stepbrothers, Ferrell and Reilly are responsible for many stupid, funny movies. However, it’s highly recommended to avoid these for family movie night no matter your children’s ages.

Bonus: Stupid, Funny TV Shows for the Whole Family

Even though most of this article has focused on stupid, funny films, there is a wide variety of stupid, funny television programming for families, too.

Stupid, funny TV shows are available for families, just like stupid, funny films. Funny shows that take a slapstick or over-the-top approach, as well as provide witty, relatable banter, are best options for families; yet parents should be aware that not all funny programs are family-friendly.

Let’s briefly look at some of the top ones we’ve found stupid, funny and family-worthy.

Whose Line Is It, Anyway? is Stupid, Family Fun

We like Whose Line Is It, Anyway because it’s random, unscripted, and game show-like, creating a sense of uncertainty that most always leads to laughs. Now granted, this show is probably best of upper tweens or teens because it lacks typical movie/program visuals (no elaborate sets or action, for example), with Common Sense Media even ranking it 14 and up.

However, the reasons for that ranking are less concerning to us. For instance, Common Sense Media says it often includes stereotypes and curse words. We’ve found that curse words are mostly bleeped but when not, aren’t extreme or vulgar. And as for stereotypes, these are approached with humor not seriousness. It’s a great opportunity to address what makes it funny, in our opinion.

So consider this option with these conditions in mind and your own children’s readiness for it.

Tip: Start with short YouTube clips of the show and then judge if whole episodes are appropriate for your family.

The Office: (Mostly)Family-Friendly, Stupid Funny Sitcom

The Office is another show rated TV-14, but one we’d recommend for most families, oddly enough. It does contain some mature references but most are done in ways so subtle kids under 12 wouldn’t get.

As well, there are so many episodes that it’s easy to view ones less ‘mature’ than others. So by selecting episodes purposefully, you can enjoy some well-written comedy that’s tailored to your own family.

Again, just like with Whose Line, The Office is widely available in clips on YouTube, so you might want to start there.

SpongeBob: Stupid, Funny Family-Friendly Animation

SpongeBob SquarePants is probably our family’s most often, go-to family program! Kids have adored it since 1999 when it first appeared and it’s just as beloved by most parents, too.

It’s definitely rare to find animation that appeals to adults and kids alike and SpongeBob certainly does!

It also fits the bill for what makes a great stupid, funny film and TV show because it’s smartly stupid. It includes a multitude of pop culture references and adult relatable humor, but is of course eye-catching and silly enough for even 6 year olds to sit through.

And let’s not forget about the stupid, funny Pineapple Under the Sea theme song we all sing along to!

The Punchline for Stupid, Funny Movies

So there we have it! Who knew there was so much to say about stupid, funny movies and which ones are family-friendly?!

To recap:

• Stupid, funny movies for families aren’t mean or inappropriate in their aim for laughs.
• Stupid, funny movies for 10 and Under often use slapstick.
• Stupid, funny movies for tweens and teens include pop culture references and witty banter, often connecting to teen issues.
• Parents can utilize online resources like Common Sense Media and IMDb Parents Guide to gauge comedies for appropriateness.
• Some recommended 10 and Under movies are Monsters, Inc. and The Princess Bride.
• Recommended stupid, funny movies for tweens and teens are Napoleon Dynamite and Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

I encourage parents to include family movie time as part of their family routine, as research supports it. Hopefully, this article will help parents to feel more confident in selecting movies for their family to enjoy together.

Don’t forget the popcorn!

For more about humor and your kids, I recommend these articles:

• Is Marvel Humor Child Friendly? (Dark Humor And Kids)
• How To Bring Humor Into The House (Explained)
• Try These Top 9 TV Shows Guaranteed To Make Your Kid Laugh!

Marvel humor in their movies appeals to kids, but parents should be aware that much of it is not child-friendly. Most of them rely on dark humor. According to Forbes, Marvel is a multi-billion dollar industry, yet much of that is from advertising targeting kids about movies better left to adults.

As a mom with teen and adult children, I have seen just about all Marvel movies over the years despite the lack of personal interest in the common plot. Theaters are almost always packed with families (not surprising considering the Forbes list, right?). The problem is that most of those weren’t appropriate for many younger age groups in attendance.

Are Marvel Movies For Kids?

Movies like Howard the Duck are unquestioningly kid-centered, but the overuse of violence and dark humor in Marvel’s Iron Man and Avengers are not. So what should parents know about Marvel movies, and their use of particular ‘adult’ humor, when it comes to their kids?

The short answer is that some Marvel movies are for kids, but not all. Beyond that, it’s recommended that parents diligently investigate the messages and approaches from Marvel films before watching with their children or permitting children to watch them unsupervised.

When parents look with eyes wide open, issues of deceit, revenge, death (on a global scale), pride, narcissism, lust, and other adult issues are easily seen in the most recent Marvel films. It’s best for kids if parents address those 1:1, rather than Tony Stark (Iron Man) or Thor (Avengers) through supposed witty dialogue.

Kids shouldn’t be sheltered from these issues, but addressing them in their proper context is vital in order for children to grasp the significance, and truly learn something. Marvel, instead, provides over the top action in sync with a catchy soundtracks to address death, revenge, peril wrapped in humor…and that is certainly not optimal for children.

Dan S. Acuff, PhD and president of Youth Market System Consulting, authored What Kids Buy and Why: The Psychology of Marketing to Kids (2010). As a respected expert in kid-marketing, he has worked with a multitude of corporations such as Johnson & Johnson, Nike, and Coca-Cola.

Acuff’s research has delineated marketing for kids into categories based on cognitive, emotional, and social needs of the varying age groups. Corporations use his findings to tailor marketing to kids specifically in order to successfully promote their products.

It doesn’t’ take a rocket scientist, or a ‘Dr. Acuff’, to recognize that Marvel is a powerhouse when it comes to marketing to kids.

Flashy, vibrant scenes; almost constant CGI action; and back and forth clever banter among the plethora of cool characters played by equally cool actors make it easy for kids to watch, even when plots (themes) go over their head. Slap stick humor and action keep them enthralled.

It should come as no surprise that this potential for huge product sales is enough to entice major corporations to target kids regardless of the movie. With each new Marvel film comes a slew of action figures, kids clothing, and spin-off cartoons to keep big business marketing movies like Black Panther and Loki to children, even if the themes and plot aren’t appropriate.

When Should I Introduce Marvel Humor And Movies To My Kids?

From the high volume of superhero toys and the very idea of superheroes, most parents would assume Marvel movies are for kids. However, parents shouldn’t be fooled. It’s important to think deliberately about what age to introduce Marvel movies to kids.

Nearly all Marvel superhero films are rated PG-13. Under the teen years, most of the content will be inappropriate. Much lobbying also goes into keeping movies from R ratings. Marvel super-hero films are no exception. Common Sense Media suggests younger children stick to animated Marvel TV series.

Some Marvel movies are appropriate for children and others are not, so it’s recommended that parents consider how a film aligns with a child’s age and emotional readiness before introducing Marvel movies, or any superhero film, to kids.

Exceptions to the PG-13 rule for Marvel super-hero movies:

• Fantastic Four series of films – PG rating
• Punisher series of films – R rating
• Dead Pool series of films – R rating

The adult style humor is only part of the issue. There is also the problem of excessive screen time.

The National Institute of Health (NIH) has conducted many studies on children and effects of screen time, especially as devices expanded from radio and television to including today’s tablets, smart phones, laptops and computers. One 2010 study said most children exceed recommended screen times from infancy.

The documented excessive use of screen time for children is alarming in view of the potentially detrimental effects on a child’s cognitive, physical, and emotional development that comes with any screen time.

Another study, this one as recent as 2019, found “moderately strong evidence between screen time and greater obesity/adiposity and higher depressive symptoms” and “moderate evidence for an association between screen time and higher energy intake, less healthy diet quality and poorer quality of life.”

Again, this is unnerving, especially when you consider that this isn’t taking into account the type of messages from screen time, only the consequences of using devices regardless of the message.

Thus, here we have established that both the content and the screen time should rule out these types of movies for many children.

For more about kids and appropriate humor, I recommend these popular articles:

• Why Does My Child Laugh When Someone Gets Hurt?
• Is it Bad For Babies To Laugh Too Much? (We Find Out)
• Sense Of Humor In Gifted Students: What You Need To Know

Marvel for Toddlers and Preschoolers

So even though Marvel obviously markets to children, does that mean parents should listen? Are Marvel movies meant for toddlers and preschoolers?

Experts say toddlers and preschoolers should have restricted screen time, thus Marvel movies and their adult humor are not recommended. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends children under 18 months have no screen time, while toddlers have up to one hour daily, supervised.

Children of this age, below four years old, learn by exploration. Sights, sounds, touch and taste, toddlers and preschoolers, and those below, learn from using their senses. Including any cues from electronics, most commonly television and film, should be used sparingly, if at all.

But not all screen time is created equal.

Kids Health

So if experts make some screen time permissible, does that give an opening for Marvel? On the contrary.

What is meant is that if parents are able to interact with their kids while using screens, then that’s different from sitting toddlers down in front of cartoons (or the Avengers) for entertainment/babysitting while parents do something else.

Then there is the extreme violence of sometimes whole cities being destroyed, and people being pushed out of airlocks and laughter is directed at them as they freeze to death (vividly displayed on-screen in Guardians of The Galaxy 2.)

Tips for Screen Time for Kids (non Marvel, at this age)

• Keep it under one hour max, daily, and none at all for under 18-month-olds.
• Screen time should not only be supervised, but kept interactive.
• Play simple, age-appropriate, educational games using kid apps.
• If watching kid-friendly animation, talk about what’s happening throughout.
• Make sure your child is kept actively learning, not passively attuned.
• Shows and apps that incorporate movement or songs are good to start with.

Marvel Screen Time for Elementary Ages

Now that we know of the recommendation (or lack thereof) regarding screen time for younger children and what that means for Marvel movies, what is the expectation, then, for our older kids such as elementary, school-age children? Is Marvel for older, elementary-aged children?

Experts conflict when it comes to screen time for elementary-aged children 6-10 years old. Marvel movies are debatable at this age where screen time is concerned. Though the AAP sets no specific time limit on screens for this age, the MPAA states that the content and humor are inappropriate.

This means, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, that children can have screen time as long as they are able to maintain healthy eating, playing, and sleeping habits. Thus, it is really more parent guided as for the time-limits.

Following the AAP, some 6 year olds might have 4 hours of screen time while another 6 year old might just watch 30 minutes daily. It truly depends on what works for each individual child, but it does leave more room for error.

The American Heart Association, on the other hand, takes a more stringent approach for all children, teens included.

The AHA says no matter what children under 18 years old should have no more than 2 hours daily of screen time. To be honest, this is almost absurd, in my opinion. So much of our daily life includes screens, making it near impossible to meet this limit, and again, not all screen time is equal.

If this is about video or computer games involving almost no problem solving and program watching like sitcoms or cartoons, then sure.

Perhaps two hours is a good limitation to make, in the general sense. But when factoring in phone calls, research, homework, using internet for informational purposes, skills-based games, and such, two hours is probably unrealistic, especially for older teens.

But why does the AHA differ so drastically from the AAP?

Well, the AHA has conducted its own studies in which they linked screen usage with a propensity for sedentary behavior and likewise, obesity.

But let’s consider Marvel movies. How does this inform parents about whether or not Marvel movies are for their 8-year-old?

Now that we know there is some discrepancy regarding elementary-aged kids watching television (or other screen usage), it can reasonably be said that Marvel could be acceptable. This is the precise situation where parental guidance is suggested.

And since most all Marvel films, especially those in the last ten years, are rated PG-13 (or “Parents Strongly Cautioned, Some Material May Be Inappropriate for Children Under 13.” Source: Michigan State University) parents are expected to use their best judgment.

This applies to violence, humor, and adult situations found in many Marvel movies.

Parents, remember, you are not alone. You can utilize sources for help, such as Common Sense Media .

Using their Marvel-by-age guide for help on recommendations of Marvel movies, you can find some suggestions that take into account age-appropriateness. For example, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is suggested for 8-9 year olds (and above) while Captain America: The First Avenger is suggested for kids 10 and up.

But even with expert guidance like above, it is still critical parents take into account their children’s cognitive and emotional levels, as well as their own family’s perspectives on violence and dark humor, as well as religious point of view, considering Marvel movies infuse many religious archetypes and casual references.

Tips for Screen Time for Elementary Kids

• Keep it under two hours at first. Then add more time as you go, if desired.
• Make screen time ‘family time’ by watching movies such as Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and Captain America: The First Avenger together.
• Watch movies beforehand or utilize resources such as Common Sense Media and IMDb’s Parents Guide to preview.
• Talk about what’s happening throughout the movie. Don’t be afraid to push pause!
• Make sure Marvel movies are treats (or screen time for film programming). Think about saving it for Friday night family movie time!

Marvel Screen Humor for Tweens and Teens

When it comes to Marvel movies for tweens and teens, recommendations from experts don’t change much from guidance for elementary-aged kids. Yet, there are some other considerations parents should think about, particularly for tweens and teens.

Experts conflict when it comes to screen time for tweens and teens as well, making Marvel movies debatable. The AAP sets no daily restrictions as long as there’s no interference with sleeping, eating, and physical activities, whereas the AHA suggests two hour limits on screen usage for tweens and teens.

However, other research regarding teen depression and suicide ideation should inform parents, too.

A 2018 study published in Clinical Psychological Science linked screen usage with teen depression as well as suicide ideation. Keep in mind, screen usage, especially in this demographic includes social media, not just video games and movies.

The high usage of screens in tweens and teens is also proportionate to lower in-person social interaction, sports involvement, regular exercise, homework completion, and attending religious services. It’s important to note that a decrease in these healthy behaviors is more directly likely to affect teen health and well-being, whereas screen usage is indirectly related.

However, to be fair, there is a recent study from 2019 that shows little to no links between screen usage (including social media) and teen well-being.

In other words, parents must do their due diligence when it comes to their tweens and teens and screen time.

Again, parents can utilize resources like Common Sense Media and IMBd Parents Guide for expert suggestions.

For instance, Common Sense Media recommends Marvel’s humor and action in movies like Thor and Iron Man for tweens and suggests Marvel’s adult humor and violence found in Deadpool and Jessica Jones wait until teens are 16 years old or older.

For us, though, we also take into account our religious viewpoint. This means our 17-year-olds aren’t watching Deadpool because its MPAA “R rating for strong violence and language throughout, sexual content and graphic nudity” are in severe conflict with our Catholic morals.

So when it comes to what Marvel movies your tween and teen watch, you’re the parent and ultimately, it’s up to you!

Tips for Screen Time for Tweens and Teens

• As with elementary kids, start out slow. And monitor your tween/teen’s behavior based on how impactful screen usage is. Allow more time if healthy habits are maintained and pull back if you notice problems.
• Make screen time ‘family time’ by watching movies such as Thor and Iron Man together.
• When it comes to Marvel you’re unsure about, preview it first or seek out resources as mentioned above.
• Talk about what’s happening throughout and after the movie. Discuss issues that might disturb you, especially dark humor and your concerns.
• Make Marvel movies a treat. Think about saving it for the weekend so there’s time for everyone to watch together. Don’t forget the popcorn!

Dark Marvel Movie Humor- How This Is Not Appropriate

Now that we know recommendations for screen time in general, and how that relates to Marvel movies, what does that mean when considering actual Marvel messages, particularly when delivered via dark humor? Is Marvel’s dark humor age-appropriate for children?

Marvel’s use of dark humor is not appropriate for most tweens (and under) despite marketing and kid protests that may say otherwise. When it comes to older teens viewing Marvel movies, parents should address instances of dark humor directly to help teens keep it in proper perspective.

Dark humor: also known as ‘black humor’ is humor “marked by the use of usually morbid, ironic, grotesquely comic episodes”

Merriam-Webster

Marvel’s movies often rely on comedy during dire straits, or essentially ‘when the world is about to end’. Instead of providing an appropriate sense of response to the seriousness of the issue, Marvel’s characters instead make jokes, poke fun at each other, or conduct some sort of slapstick.

Now, I understand the plot is typically over the top and extreme in superhero films such as Marvel. After all, we’re usually dealing with a pantheon of gods, aliens, and super powers!

However, without any restrictions or limits on viewing these films, or addressing this out of context, kids are actually taught inappropriate and disordered methods to handling important issues. Depending on your child’s age, this can become critical.

Ruth Wisse, renowned scholar of Yiddish literature and Jewish history and culture, questions in her book, No Joke (available free with new Audible subscriptions), “when did Americans begin to deal with news by laughing at its absurdities and their own attempts to solve the problems of the world?”

Thus, parents need to be cautious with Marvel movies and address the embedded as well as overt dark humor. In fact, a lot of modern comedies use dark humor in their approach, so it’s wise to be aware of this as a whole, and prepare to talk about it with your over-tweens.

Is Marvel Violent?

Many people might have to think twice when asked if Marvel movies are violent because we’re so conditioned to their levity and kid appeal. However, upon second take, most would agree Marvel movies contain an abundance of violence.

Marvel movies are indeed violent humor. Recent studies show superheroes are more violent than villains, with almost 23 acts of violence per hour compared to 17. Acts of violence mixed with comedy from both protagonists and antagonists include lethal weapons, torture, and murder.

A recent study by Penn State Medical School in conjunction with the AAP explains that almost all movies in the superhero genre are violent. Not only that, the superheroes are involved in the violence more often than villains (Source: NIH)!

And all of it is bookended with quips and ‘funny’ one liners… “We make a great team!” or “Puny god.”

Now this may be the movie creators way of showing the superhero in the most scenes or how character development occurs on screen (i.e. to show heroes as ‘tough’), but ultimately, it really just shows the so-called good guys causing more ruckus and damage than the bad guys. Is this superhero behavior? Surely, Cap would say otherwise!

Violence in Marvel Movies As Humor

In particular, Marvel likes to use humor to address violence or vice versa. That is, Marvel uses violence in supposedly funny ways. But is this truly funny and how should you handle this with your kids?

Marvel uses violence as a tool for humor. Yet, in the real world, violence is never funny. Children are taught that superheroes are good guys and worthy to emulate, so there is credible concern about the rising violence in Marvel movies, most often conducted by the protagonists.

With the tendency in many such movies to make the flaws in their super-heroes so demonstrative, it becomes hard to see the redemptive quality of any ‘saving’ they may do. When three buildings full of people are destroyed within seconds by the supposed hero, it makes you wonder who these writers are telling these stories.

Because of concern that children will be unduly influenced by the violence in Marvel, and other superhero movies, there are recommendations to counteract that. One is most applicable, easily doable, and has already been recommended here:

“Co-viewing these movies as a family can be an effective antidote to increased violence in superhero-based films,”

John N. Muller, MS

The Takeaway On Marvel Humor and Kids

So the next time a Marvel movie is released, or any superhero film, I urge you to think about it seriously before buying a ticket or paying to stream it for your child. Our kids are kids for only so long and our reach as their guide and teacher goes only so far…

For more about kids and appropriate humor, I recommend these popular articles:

• Why Does My Child Laugh When Someone Gets Hurt?
• Is it Bad For Babies To Laugh Too Much? (We Find Out)
• Sense Of Humor In Gifted Students: What You Need To Know

Since there is always a reasonable worry about what kinds of things a child can get into while on the internet, having safe websites with fun games to keep them laughing is one of the best proactive measures you can take. Thankfully, there is a whole host of funny kids’ games online to keep your child busy—safely!

The best online games that kids can play are not only funny, but also educational. In addition to making them laugh, playing these games has been proven to be a great way for children to learn skills from problem-solving to communication and even to time management.

Throughout this article, we will look into 5 of the best funny kid games online and explore a few sites where you can find even more funny games for your kids! (If you want a comparison, I’ve also written about best board games for making kids laugh.)

Funny Kids Games They Can Play Online

We’ll start off our list with just a few of the best (and funniest) kids games that can be found online. These are typically free to play, though some may have paid options for an enhanced experience. As well, they can be accessed from just about any web browser and used on desk tops, laptops, tablets, or smart phones.

Pictionary: A Classic Now Online

Pictionary is a classic game that us older people are generally used to playing with paper, markers, and a plastic “sandglass.” Nowadays, you can find this exciting and slightly competitive game online where your child can play with their friends right from home!

Pictionary has long been praised as a good creative outlet for kids, even if it is a bit rushed. Children are also learning valuable life skills, especially communication under stressful circumstances. On top of that, Pictionary has made so many people laugh with their friends, making it a perfect candidate for a bored kid.

Pictionary helps children to obtain a better understanding of the words they use and helps them to remember the words and their meanings and how to try and see things from another person’s point of view. 

You can find a free Pictionary game online at Skribbl.io. Here, your children can create a private room and invite up to 12 friends to log in and play! Just be sure not to allow them into the public rooms, as those are open to anyone who logs into the site. 

Poptropica: For Diary of a Wimpy Kid Lovers

The next best funny game online for kids is Poptropica. This game was primarily developed by the author of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid book series, Jeff Kinney and was meant to be used for educational purposes. (To purchase the 12 book collection, you can find Diary of a Wimpy Kid at Amazon.)

Poptropica is filled with bright colors, big adventures, and museums, where children can find paintings, statues, monuments, and documents that give will give details on the history about them. It is also loaded with clues that your child has to search for and puzzles to solve.

Playing puzzle or investigative games like Poptropica really help your child’s critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They can even get a little creative when creating their Poptropican character! Poptropica is totally free and can be found by using this link.

The Impossible Quiz: Help Your Child Build Patience

The last of the 5 best funny kid games that are online is The Impossible Quiz. At its core, it’s a quiz game—but with a twist that actually makes it fun to play.

The Impossible Quiz is a trivia game, but, as you could have guessed, but the questions are quite tricky and funny. Getting the correct answers will require your children to really think outside the box and look for clues as to what the answer could be. The best way to get a sense of the gameplay is to go try it out yourself.

Once the quiz is started, your child only has three lives. So, after 3 mistakes have been made, even if your child is on question 101, then the game starts over back to question one. There are 110 questions in the whole game.

This can make the game frustrating but will likely make your children more determined than ever to complete the quiz!

Funny Kids Games They Can Play Anytime

While the games above are great, they have a flaw: they can only be played with an internet connection. In the modern age, this usually isn’t much of a problem. However, it’s still great to have a couple options ready for your kid when the internet cuts out, you want to limit their internet time, or you are somewhere without internet access. So listed below are some computer games you can easily download (as well as use via internet connection).

Minecraft: A Classic Standby

Minecraft is one of the best games for kids and is known by just about everyone. If your child hasn’t started talking about it yet, you’re in the minority! Minecraft can be played both online with other players or offline and alone (we’ll discuss the safety concerns in a moment).

Minecraft, at its core, is a building game. Your child has access to a very wide variety of different types of blocks and substances that they can use to craft the wild world to their liking. Because of this, most of the humor in Minecraft is spontaneous and happens entirely from your child’s own mind and actions, meaning that it has some of the broadest appeal.

Players also have to the option of getting their friends to log in and play online with them. While many children know Minecraft is heaps of fun, they don’t realize what kinds of skills they are picking up when they play it!

Here are just a few types of skills that Minecraft encourages organically:

• Organization
• Problem-solving
• Planning
• Socialization

The online component of Minecraft comes from the ability for the player to connect to shared worlds (servers) with other players. Here’s what you need to know as a parent or teacher:

• The servers are run by other users and not Microsoft, who owns Minecraft. As such, each server is entirely different and has its own rules and structure. Some servers are advertised as child-friendly while others are distinctly adult and could expose your child to adult concepts or words.
• Because of the above, you need to put in the time to help your child find a safe server. Or alternatively, simply find one yourself. Googling “child friendly Minecraft servers” is the best way to find an updated list. More importantly, use your child’s account to log in the server and check and make sure it all looks well.
• Players can use a text chat to communicate with each other. Some servers have filters to keep players from using swears or slurs, others have no filter at all, and some disable text chat between players entirely. Minecraft has no voice chat built into the game, so players have to use a 3^rd party program to actually speak to one another.
• No sensitive information is shared between players. Other users on the server may be able to see what country your child is playing from, but that’s the extent.

The safest option for your child is to rent a server yourself for them and their friends to use. For $5-10 a month, you can have a trusted and secure company run a server that you have full control over. You can control who can and cannot play on the server, when the server is online and available, and have full logs of everything said in the server. 

Alternative: Minecraft Education Edition

The creators of Minecraft have also developed a version of the game that is for school so that teachers can use it in their classrooms, which is called Minecraft: Education Edition. By using this game in classrooms, teachers have found that students are excited to learn and work together, and research supports this.

Minecraft: Education Edition can be used for children in Kindergarten all the way up to teens in the 12^th grade, and you can buy a version for home use too.

The education version of Minecraft can help teach:

• Chemistry
• Game coding
• Marine Biology
• Ancient History
• Space concepts/Astronomy
• And much more!

So, as you can see, there is no doubt that Minecraft is one of the best games your child can play online to have some fun, laughs, and learn essential skills!  

Just Dance 2020

If you want your child to have some major fun while online, then look no further than Just Dance 2020! There is nothing that is more fun (and funny!) than dancing around and being silly with friends and family.

The great thing about this game is that it allows your children to keep their bodies healthy and burn off some of that extra energy that seems to show up out of nowhere. It also helps to improve coordination and focus since children have to pay close attention to their next moves in order to get a high score.

Just Dance 2020’s online mode allows players from all over the world to compete against each other. While that may seem like a red flag, there is no communication of any sort amongst competitors. The only thing that the competitors see is other competitors’ high scores. 

Websites Where You Can Find Other Fun Games for Kids

The games mentioned above are all excellent games for children to play when they get online. With that being said, it could be possible that your children may not be interested in any of these games. They may be interested in more or less involved games, different genres, or other play styles. It happens.

If that occurs, then here are some websites where you can find tons of other fun and educational games for your children to play: 

• PBS Kids
• Fun Brain
• Lego
• Kids World Fun
• Learn 4 Good

Most of these websites have many different categories of games to choose from which means it is highly unlikely that you will not find a great game that is fun, educational, and safe. A lot of these games are also easy to get into and don’t require a ton of time for kids to complete.

This should solve any of the problems with the larger list above. As with all games, no matter how funny kids find them, parents should screen what their kids are interacting with. This means you may either have to watch them play in the beginning or even give them a try or two yourself. Go on, let the little kid in you come out.

What’s the Punchline for Best Funny Kid Games Online?

In conclusion, the internet is filled with great and kid-safe websites that have tons of games that are exciting, fun, and educational. Encouraging or allowing your children to play games can help them in a myriad of ways beyond just simple entertainment!

To recap: the 5 best funny kids games online that we found are:

• Skribbl.io (Online Pictionary)
• Poptropica
• The Impossible Quiz
• Minecraft
• Just Dance 2020

The five games above are sure to get a laugh from your child (though humor is subjective, after all), and if they need more, then you can check out our list of top sites to find more funny games for your children. And don’t forget about our comparison article on fun board games for kids, linked above.

Additional Sources:

We Are Teachers

Red Tri

Life Wire

Mommy Poppins

Minecraft

Parent Info

The Teacher Toolkit

Family Education

It’s no surprise to anyone (around kids) that kids love TV. They can watch for hours on end! They also like to laugh, so combining the two makes sense, right? But what’s appropriate for grown-ups isn’t always that way for kids. Therefore, it’s important for parents, grandparents, babysitters…basically, anyone around kids to know the top TV shows to make kids laugh.

The top TV shows guaranteed to make your kid laugh have a few simple things in common. Slapstick humor, colorful and vibrant settings, zany plots, and over-the-top characters are most prominent in the top funny TV shows for kids. From Mr. Bean to Wipeout, there is a commonality that’s successful.

As a mom of four and retired public school teacher, I’ve been around enough kids to know what’s universal in their humor. I’m happy to share with you what I’ve learned about making kids laugh and the top TV shows I recommend for this!

Top TV Shows to Make Little Kids Laugh

Now it’s not to say that little kids should be watching loads of TV programming, educational or not. Kids Health say toddlers from 18 months to 2 years old may watch some videos with their supervising adult, and recommend no more than one supervised hour per day of ‘screen time’ for kids 2 -3 years old.

The Mayo Clinic also advise selecting shows that incorporate movement like dancing to support children’s physical health, as well as mental development. But caution that it’s important to keep in mind that all children are different.

“As your child grows, a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work as well. You’ll need to decide how much media to let your child use each day and what’s appropriate.” – The Mayo Clinic

The Boss Baby: Back in Business

The Boss Baby: Back in Business is guaranteed to make your kid laugh. After all, it has a baby dressed in a suit! That alone was a brilliant move by the creators because kids find things funny that are out-of-the-norm.

The Boss Baby should sound familiar because it originally came out as a full movie starring ‘voices’ of some well-known Hollywood actors. But kids don’t really care about name-dropping voices that are used for the characters, nope! They care more about the plot, character traits, and that the voices fit the dialogue.

This TV show (and the original animated film) stars a baby wearing a suit, with a grown up voice, tricking all the grown ups around him. Basically, that’s what kids like the most- and no surprise to anyone familiar with kid humor, I’m sure! And the shenanigans that follow have kids laughing out loud!

You can find new episodes of The Boss Baby: Back in Business on Netflix. However, don’t fear if you don’t have a subscription for it. You can find lots of clips on YouTube to keep your little kids laughing, or feel free to go to Amazon and purchase seasons for streaming or DVDs, as well as the original animated 2017 version, The Boss Baby.

Mr. Bean

Mr. Bean (1990 TV series) will make your kid laugh! Mr. Bean, the character, is child-like, naïve, clumsy, and goofy-all the things that make him appealing to kids.

It’s good for kids of all ages, but particularly little kids, because of it’s limited dialogue (dialogue can be confusing for little kids sense the vocabulary is often above their level). Instead, the show relies more on slapstick humor and the crazy faces actor Rowan Atkinson is able to contort for laughs. And this is quite successful for making young kids laugh.

You may think that the animated version would be more up your small child’s alley, and if you have a cartoon lover then maybe you are right. Yet, I would suggest trying out the in person version. Rowan is a master with facial expressions, body positioning, and awkwardness.

His long running character Mr. Bean is famous for being able to tell a story with complete with insinuations and subplots with nearly no dialogue. This will resonate with children that are trying to learn what body language means and how to recognize it. The comic device of exaggeration is masterfully done in these scenes.

Amazon Prime members can often find free episodes of Mr. Bean (both animated and non-animated) for viewing. If you are not a Prime member, but interested, you can go here.

Shaun the Sheep

Shaun the Sheep started out as a TV series back in 2007 and then spun off into a movie in 2015. It’s about a really smart sheep, always getting into some trouble, and the funny ways he and his farm buddies manage to escape. It’s a claymation show that most adults enjoy just as much as kids.

Another great aspect of this series for younger kids is the extremely limited dialogue. All story is told through action and reaction. All the characters from the sheep, to the farmer’s dog, to the farmer himself use only grunts and some claymation style facial expressions to tell the comical stories.

Smaller kids will be able to follow the story and will love that they understand everything that is going on. One of the big problems with some shows aimed at this age group is the language. It is too far above the intended audience. This is not a problem with Shaun and his barnyard pals.

Not only is this a claymation production, but the art style is very friendly and draws in viewers of all ages.

Kids love the toy-like look as well as the colorful characters of Shaun the Sheep.

Like Mr. Bean, Shaun the Sheep is available for easy viewing on Amazon Prime and free for Prime members. It’s also available there for purchase.

Top TV Shows to Make Big Kids Laugh

Statistics tell us that adolescents spend upwards of 9 hours a day ‘on screen’, which when you compile all usage of computers, tablets, smart phones, TVs and more, it’s not surprising!

The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) acknowledges, however, that not all screen time is equal and suggests parental supervision is the best way to ensure your child’s health and safety in regards to screens.

They even admit there are many positives that can be gained!

And one that we see is adding laughter (appropriately) to your child’s day through some funny TV viewing!

Malcolm in the Middle

Malcolm in the Middle is a another TV show that both parents and kids like equally, making it a great TOP choice for making your kid laugh! This show’s plot centers around a genius middle child and his kooky family.

The show began in the year 2000 and was a staple of the Fox TV network for six seasons. It is currently found in syndication on various streaming programs, but Malcolm in the Middle can also be bought directly at Amazon.

What makes big kids laugh about Malcolm? Well, I’d say it’s the slapstick humor, zany scenarios, and out-of-the-box characters, including Malcolm and his entire family, that’s prevalent in every episode!

The dad, played by Bryan Cranston, is a sideshow unto himself. His hairbrained ideas, over the top reactions, and lovable but completely opposite example of what a dad should be is hilarious.

Malcom’s older brother is a typical troubled kid turned bully and his younger brothers is the forgotten youngest child that slips many times into and out of trouble unnoticed. All of this is micromanaged by a mother that defines what mom’s aspire not to be.

Add all of this together with Malcom’s growing pains in a public school with friends and the pressures of being a genius and you have one hot mess. That is funny.

SpongeBob Squarepants

Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob Squarepants first began in 1999 and I think it probably surprises the creator as much as anyone that this show is as popular as ever!

Kids love the colorful cartoon, it’s wacky plots that see loveable SpongeBob in one mishap after another, and the silly songs that pop up frequently. With a wide-range of side characters from SpongeBob’s best friend, Patrick, to his pet snail, Gary, to the stingy boss, Mr. Krabs.

Spongebob has an age rating from ages 6 to 11 years old. There is some justification for this as sometimes the themes of the jokes can be a bit older in nature and some of the animations is a few episodes can be scary for younger kids. That being said, if your little one is 6 years old or older, this one can be a gem.

Mr. Krabs: Take that filthy pile of trash with you.

Spongebob: You shouldn’t talk about Squidward like that.

It’s available in many ways to watch: Disney+, Nickelodeon on Cable or App, or as usual, on Amazon streaming. There is always the convenience of purchasing SpongeBob DVDs from Amazon, as well. After all, you WILL be watching it over and over to make your big kid laugh, over and over!

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

Besides SpongeBob Squarepants, Nickelodeon also offers Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) for making big kids laugh. TMNT first hit TV screens in 1987 and has enjoyed a new popularity recently with a hit series in 2012, along with many spin-off movies on the big screen.

Kids love these giant ‘teen-sized’ turtles named for long-ago Italian artists, who devour pizza, use surfer-slang, and act like lovable, yet annoying big brothers. How can you not find that funny? Especially if you’re a big kid!

Raphael: I just want to apologize for earlier.

Leonardo: Okay, who are you and what have you done with our brother, Raphael?

The one character that really makes this a comic fest is Mikey. He is named after the famed artist Michael Angelo, but his are it painted in jokes and slapstick. From witty one liners, to eating pizza in the midst of a battle with evil space robots, Mikey is the star comic of these episodes.

There is also Splinter with his constant disapproval of the groups teenage antics and his swift martial arts style punishments. Even in the midst of a moral lesson that shows up in many episodes, they humor comes out of nowhere and elicits chuckles and out right laughs.

These series are great tools for parents, grandparents, instructors, and teachers alike. Even for those not inclined to pursue the martial arts, these are a great set of shows.

Funny TV Games Shows to Make All Kids Laugh

Game Shows make great TV viewing for the whole family, but are especially great for laughs. The game show format is ready-made for them, actually, with its silly tasks, time limits that lead to big crashes- literal and/or figurative, and eager contestants. This is why three game shows make the list for Top TV Shows guaranteed for making your kid laugh.

Minute to Win It

This TV game show came out in 2010 and ran for several seasons. On this show, competitors vie for $1 million by being the first to finish ten tasks. The thing that makes big kids laugh out loud is the use of common, household objects like cups and vacuums within a nail-biting one minute time-frame in the tasks!

Make no mistake, when you are rooting for someone to win and they fail big, laughter ensues. Sometimes it is a laugh of pity for the person or it can be at their expense if the crash and burn is big enough. There are several shows that bring cheers, jeers, and laughter even from sitting you your own living room. This is definitely one of those shows.

Because it’s no longer in production doesn’t mean it’s lost its popularity. In fact, with YouTube and TikTok, Minute to Win It has seen a resurgence. People are catching ‘reruns’ and making their own minute challenges to post, too.

Wipeout

Caution: This show may cause the viewer to laugh until they cry. This is no joke. My husband laughs at this show until his sides hurt.

There’s something about seeing people fall, i.e. ‘wipeout’, that is guaranteed to make your kid laugh! I think this is part of the impetus for the producers of Wipeout. They not only set up most of these competitors to fail, but did it in such a way that you can’t hardly watch and stay silent.

Wipeout aired originally in 1994 and ran several seasons. It’s also being currently rebooted.

The show has several rounds of obstacles courses that contestants must get through in order to win. From the title, it’s pretty obvious that many competitors don’t make it and literally, wipe out. The good thing is that it is usually into a giant pool of water or a soft pit of sponges.

This hits a nerve that children have starting in the toddler stages. They want to know that these contestants will be alright. Since the show is designed with safety in mind and we see contestants take spill after spill and get back up just fine, children will find it safe to laugh at.

Kids audibly groan, and then laugh out loud, seeing the contestants plummet…and that’s why this show makes the Top 9!

Who’s Line Is It Anyway?

Whose Line Is It Anyway is guaranteed to make your big kid laugh! It’s a comedy show geared around improvisational ‘acting’.

Four comedians supposedly compete for judges which include Drew Carey and the audience to be the funniest at demonstrating impromptu ‘lines’. I say, ‘supposedly compete’ because it’s always unclear about the rules for winning; that in itself is part of the gimmick.

Kids loves watching the hilarious back-and-forth acting and chatter among the contestants and Drew Carey. It’s evident to them that the show is light-hearted and just plain silly. To be honest, our whole family adults includes love to laugh at this show. There is some serious talent on display in these episodes. They are a great set of family safe seasons of pure fun.

There’s usually some slapstick, over-dramatization as well…features that are especially appealing to kids. It is even fun to do a ‘try not to laugh challenge’ while watching with your kids. Warning: With this show it is much harder than it sounds.

Your family can watch via Amazon Prime streaming or by purchasing the Whose Line Is It Anyway DVD sets from Amazon.

Punchline for Top 9 TV Shows Guaranteed To Make Your Kid Laugh!

Despite what might seem a common feeling, TV can be used appropriately as a family past-time especially if you include these top 9 tv shows guaranteed to make your kid laugh!

Keep in mind that screen time has recommended viewing limits but ultimately, you know what’s best for your family. As long as you enjoy the shows together, it’ll be a great time for your kids!

From old favorites like Mr. Bean to modern game shows that spark viral trends, there’s bound to be many days ahead of laughter for your kids (and you) watching these top 9 TV shows!

There are those kids that must be forced to read, and then those that always seem to have their nose stuck in a book. Teachers know that if kids are laughing while reading, it’s a very good thing. So what are the top books recommended for kids that make them laugh?

The top books that make kids laugh usually have quirky characters, sassy dialogue, figurative language, out of the box scenarios, and are meaningful to them. From old favs like Amelia Bedelia to new ones like Captain Underpants, teachers are happy to recommend books that make children laugh.

As a former English teacher in public schools, it’s no surprise that I absolutely love reading. However, it’s not always easy to convince children of its specialness. I’ve learned over the years the best way to do this is by finding books that make children laugh. I’m happy to share with you my experience with using literature to make kids laugh! Do you believe I have 187 recommendations?!

Picture Books that Make Kids Laugh

Kids are first introduced to picture books as infants with Goodnight Moon (Amazon linked) and other bedtime stories. But just because they’re easy for little kids to read doesn’t mean big kids can’t enjoy them, too! Laughs are made for all ages.

Amelia Bedelia and its Figurative Language Makes Kids Laugh

Amelia Bedelia (with anniversary issue available at Amazon) is probably one of the first books to make kids laugh because it’s used in kindergartens and first grades all around US schools.

The pure joy on kids’ faces and room full of exploding laughter from listening to Amelia Bedelia is unforgettable as a teacher.

Amelia is a charming housekeeper who means well, but generally gets everything wrong because she takes it literally. Teachers love watching kids begin to unravel the difference between figurative and literal language from Amelia’s antics, but kids just love the story!

Whether it’s when she’s putting a dress on a chicken (“to dress the chicken”) or dusting powder on the furniture (“to dust the furniture”), kids laugh out loud with Amelia Bedelia! And at last count there are 41 books featuring Amelia, so there’s lots of opportunity for laughing!

All Books by Mo Willems Make Kids Laugh (and adults, too!)

Mo Willems is a master of making kids laugh! From his wacky pigeon breaking the 4th wall by talking to the reader to the terrible monster named Leonardo who can’t even scare the tuna salad out of a kid, Mr. Willems connects to kids through silly characters and vivid dialogue.

It’s impossible for kids and adults alike to pick favorites from Willems’ myriad of books, but here are the ones I’ve noticed my kiddos reaching for more than most (with Amazon links provided):

• Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus (is one of 10 in the series featuring Pigeon)
• Leonardo, the Terrible Monster (published in 2005)
• There Is a Bird on Your Head (the first Elephant and Piggie book out of 25 currently, and is also a Geisel Medal winner)
• Knuffle Bunny (about a little girl and her bunny, one of 3 in the series)

Picture Books with Crazy Scenarios

Just like this little girl’s toothless smile demonstrates, kids love books with wacky or plain ol’ nontraditional ideas or settings. She’s holding a book that puts Cinderella in space called Interstellar Cinderella. I remember she kept giggling about it because “Cinderella’s not an astronaut!”.

For example, No, David! by David Shannon has been causing raucous laughter since 1998 when it was first published. Every teacher knows that when she pulls out this book, she will immediately grab students’ attention from the moment she utters the title, ‘No, David!’

There’s just something about the word ‘no’ that kids can commiserate with right away!

And kids are absolutely out of control with laughter when they see the page of David streaking down the street!

Any book that puts traditional characters in nontraditional scenarios or has plots that are very different than expected will definitely make kids laugh! With a visit to any local library, you will find a plethora of books that fit into this category!

Math Picture Books To Make Kids Laugh (not Cry)

I used Flat Stanley chapter books (of which there are 6, I believe, currently) quite often when teaching math concepts to my elementary schoolers. It’s not that this book series is all that mathematical, but having the main character ‘2D’ in a 3D world leads to all kinds of chaos (and some interesting math discussions to boot!).

However, the funniest math picture book that will get kids laughing (and hopefully, loving math) is Alexander, Who Used to be Rich Last Sunday (Amazon) by Judith Viorst. This is the same familiar character of the book, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day (also quite humorous!). Kids enjoy the shenanigans that lead to Alexander losing all his money over the course of a week.

As a teacher, I enjoyed creating an assignment that had students write their own version of Alexander, Who Used to be Rich Last Sunday…and it’s one of the few times all of my students completed the work!

There’s a lot of quality literature out there that can get your student or child excited about math, writing, and other academic content, through humor!

Chapter Books that Make Kids Laugh

As kiddos merge into chapter books, one of the most important things for them to grasp is the notion of just right books. Just right books are books on kids’ reading level. But besides that, teachers know they also need to be on kids’ interest level for them to be successfully matched (Source: Journal for Early Literacy). And from my experience, I’ve been able to hone in on what that looks like!

I have actually already mentioned one chapter book series that was pretty popular with both teachers and students for bringing about laughs while connecting mathematically called Flat Stanley. There are 6 of those books, but read on to learn about more popular chapter books known for making kids laugh!

Fly Guy Books Make Boys and Girls Laugh

Kids love all 19 Fly Guy books. First, just get kids to read the title and you’ve hooked them. Anyone familiar with children know that they love rhymes. I truly believe that is one of the biggest reasons for Dr. Seuss’ success…that and his knack for the oddball that makes learning fun and attainable! (Source: The Reading Teacher) By the way, all 45 of the Dr. Seuss-authored books are quite hilarious!

Fly Guy is about a boy and a his best friend, a talking fly. The scenes are both cartoonish and realistic, with several of the books leaning towards nonfiction by presenting some factual information, too. Of course, in the most silliest way possible!

Both boys and girls love this chapter series made especially for early readers, grades K-2.

The Nightshade Chronicles Are Funny, Too

When Hilary Wagner wrote The Nightshade Chronicles I don’t think she expected it to be so humorous. It’s described on Amazon as an “impossible-to-put-down animal fantasy, set in a brilliantly imagined subterranean world, explores timeless themes of freedom, forgiveness, the bonds of family, and the power of love.”

However, it’s witty back and forth dialogue is noteworthy for its power to bring laughter from even the most obstinate of readers, our son, Ethan. Back story: Ethan is special needs with an actual reading disability, so you can imagine why he has actively avoided reading at all costs. Well, thanks to Ms. Wagner and her ‘knighted’ rats, scrappy and sassy, that’s all changed!

There are three books in the Nightshade series for your kiddos to enjoy!

Captain Underpants Of Course Are Funny

Probably the chapter book series most credited with introducing boys to books that make kids laugh is Captain Underpants (Amazon linked) by Dav Pilkey. Currently, there are 12 Captain Underpants books with a thirteenth in production.

Why does Captain Underpants make kids laugh so much? Well, besides the title character wearing white underpants and a red cape, that is? I mean, seriously, if you’ve ever been around any child, the male version in particular, from age 2 and up, you know the mere word ‘underpants’ causes guffaws!

These books have crazy scenarios (outer space!), wild side characters (Sergeant Boxers), silly dialogue, and more that cause kids to snap these up first from the library and wait anxiously for the next edition to be available.

Run, don’t walk, to get these for your kiddos if you want to make them laugh while reading!

Diary of a Wimpy Kid (series)

The Diary of a Wimpy Kid books by Jeff Kinney are what started my other son, Ronin, on his path as an avid reader. He’s the first to tell you he didn’t want to read; he much preferred playing video games! But with the introduction to Greg and his jaunt into middle school, Ronin was hooked! This doesn’t, of course, mean he stopped playing video games, however.

Kids love the simple sketches with the note paper background that are easy for them to replicate. They connect with Greg’s problems with his brother and teachers. And they really connect with the middle school humor, spilled milk and rude comebacks included!

Bonus: Joke/Coloring Book Keeps Kids Coloring And Giggling For Hours

There are also joke books specifically designed for kids and laughter. These may be more direct in their approach, but with producing giggles and fun as their main goal, one had to make the list.

The trick is to find jokes that are age appropriate and clever enough to make kids laugh. So many jokes, joke books, and especially comedians fall prey to the temptation to be overtly inappropriate in order to shock instead of inspire genuine laughter. Not just any joke book will do. I know of a joke book that fits the bill.

And this one is not even included in the ridiculous number of others recommended (187 is just crazy right?). But there is even more with this one. It is also a coloring book. You can offer them the sense of accomplishment as they show off their ‘artwork’ and they may even try out some of the jokes as they do.

My husband Mat has written a unique joke book that combines the fun of friendly coloring images and the wackiness of jokes and puns. It has over 100 pages filled with easy pictures that any age will enjoy and jokes that are so simple that ‘Dads’ will even love to tell them.

I recommend picking up a copy for an child that either loves to laugh or needs a pick-me-up in your life today. You can find it here on Amazon at this link.

Punchline for The Top 187 Books That Make Children Laugh

“So now that we’re at the conclusion, let’s review!” I couldn’t resist my teacher voice (Eek!)

Kids don’t naturally gravitate to books and reading, that is, for the most part. But with proper introductions to just the right books, such as those that make them laugh, you’ll turn a sizeable portion into book worms!

Kids find humor in books that connect to them in meaningful ways. That doesn’t mean the books have to be literary masterpieces. On the contrary, many of them can be and are quite simple.

The features that make them connect are quirky characters, out of the box ideas and scenarios, sassy and quick-witted dialogue, and lots of figurative language.

So did you see all of the 187 books I promised? They are there. There are series with many volumes available in each. Believe me, once you find a book that draws out the laughter from a reluctant reader, you will want there to be a series of them to continue with.

And it doesn’t hurt to use ‘poop’ or ‘underpants’ now and then.

Please enjoy any of these 187 recommendations for funny books that make kids laugh!