Cartoons can be a powerful tool for entertainment and learning. Believe it or not, there are several cartoons that address emotional intelligence and you can help your child navigate the complex world of feelings. Here are a few of our favorites.
Sesame Street
This classic children’s program has been a trusted resource for decades. Through catchy songs and relatable characters like Elmo and Cookie Monster, Sesame Street explores a wide range of emotions, from happiness and sadness to anger and frustration.
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood
A spin-off of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood uses catchy songs and puppets to teach preschoolers valuable social and emotional skills. Each episode focuses on a specific emotion, like jealousy or shyness. The episodes share strategies for kids to navigate these feelings.
Inside Out
For children who are a bit older, Inside Out is a great choice. This Pixar masterpiece takes viewers on a journey through the mind of an 11-year-old girl, Riley. Her emotions – Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust – are personified as hilarious characters. Together, they work to guide Riley through the ups and downs of life. Inside Out is a fantastic tool for sparking conversations about emotional complexity and the importance of acknowledging all our feelings.