Is your child over CoComelon? Though it’s normal for children to become fixated on a certain TV series or movie, those obsessions generally don’t last forever. (We heard that sigh of relief!) Most kids age out of their favorite preschool shows as they grow and learn; simple animations and repetitious songs give way to more sophisticated storytelling and real-life concepts.

Many kids love CoComelon for its catchy songs and cheerful, attention-grabbing animation, but after a certain age, you may find that your child is ready for something new, and it may not involve JJ and Ms. Appleberry. “If your child starts tuning out, asking fewer questions, or rolling their eyes—yes, even little ones do it!—they’ve likely outgrown the show cognitively and emotionally,” says Jamie Krenn, a cognitive and developmental psychologist who teaches courses on children’s media, screen time, and learning. “Good content should challenge their thinking just enough. If they’re not actively engaged or learning new things, it may be time to move on.”

So what makes a TV show “good” for kids, and what should you look for in a CoComelon replacement? According to Krenn, a quality program aligns with where your child is developmentally and supports their cognitive and social-emotional growth. “That includes clear story structure, space for kids to think and respond, and some light humor—silly repetition and joyful bonding moments are development gold,” she says. “Look for shows that model how to think and how to feel, not just what to memorize.”

There are so many options out there, and with the rise of streaming services and YouTube programming, and it can be hard to find a show that checks all your boxes while still entertaining your child. For guidance, “kids should be learning how to navigate the world: how to manage emotions, solve problems, understand others, and feel confident in their ability to contribute,” says Krenn. “Look for shows that include warm characters, intentional pauses, and interactive elements like singing or movement—not just fast visuals or constant sound.”

Ahead, discover some great preschool shows to start when your child is over their CoComelon days.

Sure, this is kind of cheating, but this more “grown-up” companion series to CoComelon follows JJ and his friends as they learn and grow. In the show, the kids are older and there's more dialogue and storylines than the original series, which is mostly song-based. If your child really, really loves CoComelon, this is a good next step.

A forever favorite, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood is an incredible show for kids and parents alike. Kids who love the vivid colors and animal friends of CoComelon will love spending time with Daniel, his family, and his neighbors. And if your child loves music, they’ll be instantly drawn to Daniel’s catchy, repetitive “lesson songs” that help kids deal with emotions and routines.

Need a break from the go-go-go energy of CoComelon? Many parents love Netflix’s Puffin Rock for its slower, more gentle pace. The series follows Oona and Baba, a sister-and-brother puffin duo, and the other inhabitants of an island off the coast of Ireland. It’s a great choice for animal-loving kids who love shows full of nature.

Plus, Krenn says that “slow TV” shows like Puffin Rock can “help with attention span, emotional regulation, and empathy.” They’re also a good way to help kids wind down.

Super Why! has been a family favorite since it debuted in 2007. In the show, Whyatt and his pals travel through fairytale worlds to save the day while teaching kids reading and phonics. Kids who enjoyed the nursery rhymes of CoComelon will be happy to see familiar stories like the Three Little Pigs told in a more “elevated” manner.

Trash Truck is another quiet, slower-paced series that follows a six-year-old boy named Hank and his best friend—who just so happens to be a garbage truck. The show teaches kids important lessons about friendship, imagination, family, and the joy of being yourself. This is a great pick for kids who enjoy having a “hero” to follow, like JJ on CoComelon. And for kids who can't help but admire the garbage truck on pickup days.

This sweet, slow-moving show couldn’t be cuter. It’s about Lucas, the titular spider, and his friends, which include a puppy and a fly. The show follows the little creatures as they explore their surroundings and learn more about their environment. Kids will be delighted to see the adorable animation and cheeky humor—and if you’re dealing with bug fears, Lucas the Spider may be a useful tool to help kids understand that bugs can be our friends too! 

The beloved Nickelodeon series about a curious explorer named Dora and her pal Boots got a 2020s update with the new series, Dora. The reboot retains most elements of the original series, but the animation has changed to be more in line with modern tastes—similar to the bright, bubbly style of CoComelon.

Kids who loved CoComelon will enjoy accompanying Dora on her adventures through the rainforest. Plus, "active TV” shows like Dora, which invite singing, dancing, or answering questions, can help “build speech, memory, executive function, and confidence,” says Krenn.

Told in an enchanting stop-motion style, Tumble Leaf is about Fig the fox and his friends, who spend all day playing and learning. If your child was drawn to the animation style of CoComelon, they’ll love the vibrant colors and animal characters in Tumble Leaf. The series also teaches children scientific and mechanical concepts in a whimsical, charming way.