10 Wholesome TV Shows for Families That Bring Everyone Together
In a world full of screen time and scrolling, finding shows that the whole family can watch together—and actually enjoy—is like striking gold. That’s where wholesome TV shows for families come in. These series offer more than entertainment. They teach values, spark laughter, and give everyone—from toddlers to grandparents—a reason to gather around the couch.
At Grumpy Sharks, we believe that family time matters. Whether it’s bonding over animated adventures or learning life lessons together, these shows create small moments that leave big impressions.
What Makes a TV Show Truly Wholesome?
Wholesome doesn’t mean boring or outdated. It means heart-centered storytelling without relying on shock, sarcasm, or cynicism. These shows celebrate kindness, teamwork, imagination, and family values. The best ones don’t talk down to kids or try too hard to be trendy. Instead, they offer warmth, humor, and timeless messages—something we could all use a bit more of.
10 Wholesome TV Shows for Families to Watch Together
#1. Avatar: The Last Airbender
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Animation
- Release Date: February 21, 2005
- Creators: Michael Dante DiMartino, Bryan Konietzko
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- IMDb: 9.3/10
- Plot: Set in a world where people can bend the elements, Aang is the last Airbender destined to restore peace. Alongside his friends, he learns about responsibility, forgiveness, and friendship. This show balances humor and emotional depth, making it a rare animated series that truly resonates with all ages.
#2. The Great British Baking Show
- Genre: Baking, Reality TV, Family-friendly Competition
- Release Date: August 17, 2010
- Creators: Love Productions
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- IMDb: 8.6/10
- Plot: In a picturesque white tent, amateur bakers tackle weekly challenges to impress the judges. With minimal drama and maximum encouragement, it’s a feel-good celebration of community and craftsmanship.
#3. Little House on the Prairie
- Genre: Romance, Drama, Western, Adventure
- Release Date: September 11, 1974
- Creator: Blanche Hanalis (based on the books by Laura Ingalls Wilder)
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
- IMDb: 7.5/10
- Plot: Life on the American frontier isn’t easy, but it’s filled with heart. The Ingalls family faces hardship and joy with grit, grace, and love, creating timeless values and unforgettable moments.
#4. A Series of Unfortunate Events
- Genre: Comedy, Mystery, Adventure
- Release Date: January 13, 2017
- Creators: Mark Hudis, Barry Sonnenfeld
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- IMDb: 7.7/10
- Plot: The Baudelaire orphans outwit a series of eccentric and sinister villains. It’s visually rich and darkly humorous, encouraging intelligence, resilience, and empathy in the face of adversity.
#5. Anne with an E
- Genre: Historical Fiction, Coming-of-Age Drama
- Release Date: March 19, 2017
- Creator: Moira Walley-Beckett
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- IMDb: 7.7/10
- Plot: A bold reimagining of Anne of Green Gables, this series tackles identity, feminism, and belonging through Anne’s fiery imagination and fierce heart.
#6. Lego Masters
- Genre: Reality, Family, Creativity
- Release Date: February 5, 2020
- Where to Watch: Hulu, FOX
- IMDb: 7.5/10
- Plot: Teams of Lego builders face off in incredible challenges—but the real focus is creativity, collaboration, and storytelling through bricks. Kids love the visuals, adults love the passion.
#7. The Andy Griffith Show
- Genre: Sitcom, Comedy, Classic TV
- Release Date: October 3, 1960
- Creator: Sheldon Leonard
- Where to Watch: Paramount+, Apple Watch
- IMDb: 8.4/10
- Plot: Set in the idyllic small town of Mayberry, Sheriff Andy Taylor keeps law and order with a gentle, wise approach. With his goofy deputy Barney and curious son Opie, every episode offers homespun humor and timeless morals.
#8. Full House
- Genre: Sitcom, Family, Comedy
- Release Date: September 22, 1987
- Creator: Jeff Franklin
- Where to Watch: Max, Hulu
- IMDb: 6.8/10
- Plot: After a tragic loss, widower Danny Tanner gets help raising his three daughters from his brother-in-law Jesse and best friend Joey. Through laughs, growing pains, and hugs, this feel-good series celebrates family, support, and second chances.
#9. Heartland
- Genre: Family Drama, Adventure
- Release Date: October 14, 2007
- Creators: Murray Shostak, based on the novels by Lauren Brooke
- Where to Watch: Netflix, UPtv
- IMDb: 8.4/10
- Plot: Set on a picturesque Canadian ranch, Heartland follows Amy Fleming and her family as they heal both horses and hearts. It’s a gentle, emotional ride filled with love, loss, and resilience across generations.
#10. Star Trek: The Next Generation
- Genre: Action, Drama, Science Fiction, Adventure
- Release Date: September 28, 1987
- Creators: Gene Roddenberry, Developed by Rick Berman and Michael Piller
- Where to Watch: Paramount+, Netflix
- IMDb: 8.7/10
- Plot: Set in the 24th century, this acclaimed sci-fi series explores futuristic challenges, diplomacy, and the human condition aboard the starship Enterprise. Its moral dilemmas and hopeful tone make it a surprisingly wholesome choice for families who enjoy thought-provoking stories.
Conclusion: Finding the Right Wholesome TV Shows for Families
From animated classics to live-action dramas, these wholesome TV shows for families offer meaningful entertainment across all ages. Whether you’re after giggles, good values, or just a calm hour together, these shows prove that quality family time can be found right on your screen.
So grab the popcorn, cozy up on the couch, and enjoy stories that bring your whole crew closer together. Let Grumpy Sharks help you discover more feel-good picks that never go out of style!
