Documentaries are a fantastic way for families to learn and explore the world together. They offer a great opportunity to spark conversations, broaden horizons, and inspire curiosity. Whether you’re looking to teach your children about the wonders of the world, the importance of conservation, or just want to see animals going wild, there’s a wealth of amazing kid-friendly nature documentaries available to stream.
We’ve compiled a list of the best documentaries to stream with your kids, covering a variety of topics and age ranges. From cool animal stories to awe-inspiring natural wonders to mind-blowing scientific discoveries, there’s something for everyone on this list. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and get ready to explore the world together!
The Best Kid-Friendly Nature Documentaries
Chasing Coral
Chasing Coral, the follow-up to director Jeff Orlowski’s Chasing Ice, won an Emmy for Outstanding Nature Documentary. The film examines the consequences of the climate crisis on coral reefs as well as the activism underway to save them. This doc, which features divers, scientists and photographers who care deeply about coral reefs, is an excellent way to start or deepen a conversation about environmental issues with your kids.
Dolphin Reef
Dolphin Reef follows the story of a young dolphin named Echo as he learns how to navigate life in the coral reefs off the coast of Polynesia. The film showcases the breathtaking beauty of the coral reefs and the incredible variety of creatures that live there, including sea turtles, giant clams, and colorful fish. Through Echo’s journey, viewers learn about the complex social relationships and behaviors of dolphins as well as the importance of the coral reef ecosystem. Natalie Portman narrates the film, which also features an original score by composer Steven Price.
March of the Penguins
March of the Penguins takes viewers on a journey across hundreds of miles of Antarctica’s frozen landscape with Emperor penguins as they mate and raise their offspring. The award-winning film reveals the obstacles such penguins face, from frigid blizzards to dangerous ice to deadly predators. Viewers also see how penguins bond socially as they tend to their eggs and nurture their chicks. With jaw-dropping cinematography and narration by actor Morgan Freeman, the film evokes a sense of awe at the perseverance of penguins despite their brutal environment.
Born to Be Wild
Born to Be Wild is a nature documentary film that focuses on two extraordinary women who dedicate their lives to saving and rehabilitating orphaned baby elephants and orangutans in different parts of the world. Dame Daphne Sheldrick lives among the elephants in Kenya while Dr. Birute Galdikas works with orangutans in the rainforests of Borneo. The film showcases the deep ties that these remarkable women form with the animals they care for and their tireless efforts to rescue, rehabilitate, and release them back into the wild. If your kids have a soft spot for animal rescue and conservation, they will definitely enjoy this film, which is narrated by actor Morgan Freeman and features an original score by composer Mark Mothersbaugh.
The Elephant Queen
The Elephant Queen follows elephant matriarch Athena, who leads her herd across the African savanna in search of water during a drought. The documentary showcases the incredible intelligence, emotional depth, and social complexity of elephants, as Athena and her family navigate the challenges of their changing environment. The film also highlights the critical role that elephants play in maintaining the balance of their ecosystem and the urgent need to protect them from the threats of poaching and habitat destruction. Immersive storytelling, impressive cinematography, and an original score by composer Alex Heffes combine to beautifully showcase the magnificence of these majestic creatures.
This article was written in collaboration with ChatGPT.
