Kids are the ultimate trendsetters. They decide what’s cool, what’s lame, and what’s worth talking about on the playground. From viral shows and apps to learning tools and slang, here’s the ultimate guide to what’s trending with kids—and what’s not—in 2025.
🎬 Coolest Shows and Platforms for Kids
Kids love colorful, engaging, and interactive shows that mix fun with education. Here’s what’s ruling screens right now:
Cocomelon ABC
Why It’s Cool: Still one of the most-watched kids’ shows, Cocomelon continues to captivate young viewers with its catchy songs and vibrant animations. The focus on ABCs and foundational learning makes it a hit with parents, too.
Entergalactic
Why It’s Cool: A slightly older crowd is drawn to this visually stunning animated series. Its creative storytelling and bold visuals make it stand out from traditional kids’ content.
Dr. Binocs
Why It’s Cool: Curious kids love Dr. Binocs for its quick, entertaining lessons on science, history, and random facts. Think of it as a mini science lab packed into short, colorful videos.
Doggyland
Why It’s Cool: Snoop Dogg’s surprising venture into kids’ entertainment combines education with hip-hop. The show teaches essential social skills and values while grooving to catchy beats.
Art Hub for Kids
Why It’s Cool: Budding artists can’t get enough of this channel. Step-by-step drawing tutorials make creativity accessible and fun for kids of all ages.
🎮 Top Gaming and Activity Platforms
ChuchuTV
Why It’s Cool: Perfect for preschoolers, this platform mixes upbeat songs with learning activities, keeping kids engaged while teaching essential skills.
Ninja Kids
Why It’s Cool: From action-packed adventures to cool challenges, this group of real-life siblings brings non-stop energy. Their daring stunts and friendly competitions keep kids glued to the screen.
ABC Kids
Why It’s Cool: Designed for early learners, this app and channel help kids master their ABCs and early literacy skills through fun, interactive games.
SKZ (Stray Kids)
Why It’s Cool: K-pop fans as young as elementary school kids are hooked on Stray Kids. The group’s high-energy music and dance inspire countless fan art and TikTok recreations.
📚 Best Educational Resources
Khan Academy Kids
Why It’s Cool: Parents trust Khan Academy Kids for its well-rounded educational approach. The app covers everything from math to social-emotional learning with an adorable animal cast.
Pinkalicious and Peterrific
Why It’s Cool: PBS’s colorful duo inspires creativity and kindness, with episodes that dive into art, problem-solving, and teamwork.
🎤 Songs, Slang, and Fun Trends
Skidamarink
Why It’s Cool: This timeless tune is still a hit, especially with toddlers. Its catchy, repetitive lyrics make it a favorite for singalongs.
Popular Slang
Kids love keeping adults guessing with their ever-evolving vocabulary. Some current faves:
- “Rizz” (short for charisma)
- “Slay” (doing something amazing)
- “Bet” (agreeing to something)
- “Sus” (suspicious, often used in jest)
❌ What’s NOT Cool Right Now
- Facebook: This platform is for parents and grandparents, not kids.
- Fidget Spinners: Fun while they lasted, but no longer playground currency.
- Outdated Slang: Saying “on fleek” or “YOLO” will get you laughed off the schoolyard.
What’s NOT Cool with Kids These Days: What’s Lame, Cringe, and Totally Outdated
While kids can be brutally honest about what they think is awesome, they’re equally clear about what’s not. Understanding what’s considered lame or cringe-worthy can help parents, teachers, and even cool uncles and aunts avoid those awkward eye rolls or embarrassed groans. Let’s dive into the list of things kids these days find totally uncool.
Overusing Outdated Slang
- Why it’s cringe: Nothing makes kids wince faster than hearing adults try to use slang that’s either outdated or misused.
- Examples:
- Saying “YOLO” (so 2012).
- Using “lit” when it’s been replaced by “fire” or just… not saying it at all.
- Saying “on fleek” (no one says that anymore—trust me).
- How to avoid it: Stick to normal conversation, and if you do use slang, make it lighthearted and not too serious.
- Why it’s lame: For most kids, Facebook is for parents and grandparents. Kids have moved on to platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram.
- Cool alternative: If you want to connect with kids online (appropriately and safely), learn their preferred platforms, but don’t invade their space.
Cheesy or Overly Babyish Shows
- Why it’s cringe: While younger kids may still adore shows like Cocomelon or Peppa Pig, older siblings think they’re for babies. Mentioning these shows to anyone over age 6? Prepare for some serious side-eye.
- What’s cooler: Shows like Bluey or The Owl House that blend humor, heart, and creativity resonate with a broader age range.
Trying Too Hard to Be “Cool”
- Why it’s cringe: Kids can sense when adults are forcing it. Whether it’s dressing way too trendy or dropping slang every other sentence, it comes off as inauthentic.
- How to stay chill: Be yourself! Kids appreciate authenticity. Be interested in their world without pretending you’re part of it.
Overly Branded or Generic Clothes
- Why it’s uncool: Wearing off-brand sneakers or clothes with giant, outdated logos (think: “Champion” knockoffs) isn’t going to win any playground popularity contests.
- What’s cooler: Kids gravitate toward brands like Nike, Vans, or even minimalist H&M styles. Bonus points for something unique or trendy, like graphic tees with anime characters.
“Kid-Friendly” Versions of Everything
- Why it’s cringe: When something gets watered down to be “kid-friendly,” older kids usually roll their eyes. Whether it’s pop songs with censored lyrics or toned-down versions of memes, they often feel patronized.
- What’s cooler: Let them engage with age-appropriate, authentic content. For example, clean versions of songs are fine if they’re not over-the-top censored.
Uncool Toys
- Why it’s lame: Kids have phases, and toys they loved last year may now feel babyish. For example:
- Fidget spinners (fun in 2017, now forgotten).
- Slime kits (still okay for some, but losing their novelty).
- Fingerlings (cute once, but now collecting dust).
- What’s trending: Smart gadgets, STEM toys, and anything involving coding or creativity tend to feel more “grown-up” and cool.
Forced Family Matching Outfits
- Why it’s cringe: While toddlers may not care, older kids often find family matching outfits embarrassing, especially if it’s for something public like a holiday event or vacation photos.
- Better idea: Coordinate colors or themes without going full matchy-matchy.
Public Displays of Affection
- Why it’s awkward: While kids love feeling loved, public hugs and kisses, especially in front of their peers, can make them squirm with embarrassment.
- What’s better: A subtle fist bump or “You’ve got this!” is cool. Save the smothering for home.
Adults on TikTok
- Why it’s cringe: TikTok might be the hottest platform for kids, but when adults try to jump in on the trends, it often backfires. (Think: poorly executed dance challenges.)
- How to win points: If you’re genuinely interested in TikTok, learn what kids are watching and talk about their favorite creators. Just don’t post your own awkward “Renegade” attempts.
FAQs
Q: How can I keep up with what’s cool for kids?
A: Follow trending platforms like YouTube Kids or popular creators on TikTok. Ask your kids what they’re into—they’re the experts.
Q: What’s the best way to introduce educational trends to kids?
A: Balance fun with learning. Apps like Khan Academy Kids or channels like Art Hub for Kids make education exciting.
Conclusion
Being cool isn’t just about following trends—it’s about understanding kids’ perspectives, showing genuine interest, and giving them the space to define what they like. By steering clear of cringe-worthy behaviors and embracing authenticity, you can stay connected with the younger crowd while still being your awesome self.
From Cocomelon ABC to Doggyland, kids’ trends in 2025 reflect their love for creativity, energy, and learning. Whether it’s the latest K-pop hit or an educational app, there’s plenty to keep them engaged—and parents in the loop. Got a favorite kids’ trend? Share it in the comments below!