If you grew up in the ’80s, there were certain TV shows that nearly every kid had on their must-watch list. These shows shaped afternoon routines and weekend plans, becoming a big part of your childhood memories without even trying.

The list of 15 TV shows every kid watched in the ’80s offers a clear snapshot of what made growing up during that decade unique and fun. Whether you were into action, comedy, or cartoons, these shows connected millions of kids through shared stories and characters.

SpongeBob SquarePants

You might be surprised to learn SpongeBob SquarePants started in the late ’90s, but it quickly became a favorite for kids everywhere. It’s still running today and holds the record as the longest-running animated children’s TV series.

If you grew up watching cartoons, SpongeBob’s quirky humor and memorable characters probably made you smile. It’s easy to see why so many kids continue to enjoy it. For more about its lasting popularity, check out this article on its milestone.

iCarly

You might be surprised to see iCarly on a list about the ‘80s, but its spirit of creativity and fun fits right in. The show follows Carly and her friends as they create a web show, which was a fresh idea that captured many kids’ imaginations.

It showed how technology could bring friends together and made you feel like you could start something amazing from your own bedroom. For a modern twist on classic kid-friendly entertainment, iCarly is definitely a memorable show to know about.

Avatar: The Last Airbender

You might not expect this show on an ‘80s list, but many kids who grew up in the late ’90s and early 2000s still feel a strong connection to it. The story follows Aang, a young hero mastering the elements to bring balance to the world.

Its mix of adventure, humor, and important life lessons keeps it enjoyable even today. If you watch it now, you’ll see why it’s so highly rated by fans of all ages. For more about popular kids’ shows, check out this list of favorite childhood TV shows.

Regular Show

If you grew up in the ‘80s, you might find Regular Show different since it’s from a later time. But it captures the spirit of friendship and quirky adventures that many old cartoons had. You follow two friends, Mordecai and Rigby, as they work at a park and get into unusual situations.

The show mixes everyday life with odd, funny moments you might enjoy if you like classic cartoons with a modern twist. Learn more about the show’s unique style on Reddit’s Regular Show community.

Adventure Time

You might be surprised to learn that Adventure Time wasn’t actually from the ‘80s but it shares the imaginative spirit of that era’s cartoons. The show is known for its quirky characters and unique stories that capture the same sense of fun and creativity.

If you enjoy shows that are a little weird but fun to watch, Adventure Time will feel familiar. It’s a great example of kids’ TV that mixes humor with adventure in a way that keeps you interested. More on its appeal can be found on this Reddit discussion.

The Suite Life of Zack & Cody

You probably remember the mischievous twins, Zack and Cody, living in a hotel. Their antics made every episode fun and kept you laughing.

The show mixes humor with everyday kid problems, so it feels relatable. If you enjoyed lighthearted comedy, this was a must-watch.

You can find out more about it in the TV Shows of my Childhood list on IMDb.

Phineas and Ferb

If you loved creative adventures, Phineas and Ferb was a must-watch. You got to see two stepbrothers invent amazing things during their summer vacation.

The show balances humor and clever ideas, making it fun for both kids and parents. It’s a great example of timeless kids’ TV you can still enjoy today. Check out why it continues to be popular by visiting this list of shows parents and kids can enjoy together.

Babar

If you grew up in the ’80s, you probably remember Babar, the charming elephant king. The show follows Babar’s adventures in the kingdom he rules, teaching lessons about friendship and kindness.

You’ll find the animation simple but comforting, perfect for younger kids. Babar first aired in 1989 and remains a nostalgic favorite for many families. Check more details on the Babar TV series.

LEGO Ninjago: Dragons Rising

If you enjoyed action and adventure, you might like LEGO Ninjago: Dragons Rising. It follows a team of young ninjas who unlock their true powers while facing new challenges.

You’ll find plenty of exciting battles and cool dragons in the show. It’s a great pick if you love stories about teamwork and bravery. You can watch it on platforms like YouTube, where new episodes are regularly shared.

Learn more about LEGO Ninjago: Dragons Rising here.

Masha and the Bear

You might think Masha and the Bear is an ‘80s show, but it actually started in 2007. It follows a little girl named Masha and her caring friend, a bear.

The show is fun and teaches lessons about friendship and kindness. You can find episodes online, such as on YouTube.

Tom and Jerry Tales

You probably remember the classic chase between Tom and Jerry. The 1980s brought you The Tom and Jerry Comedy Show, with 15 episodes full of their fun antics.

This show mixed new stories with the classic cat-and-mouse humor you love. It kept the timeless rivalry alive for a new generation of kids.

If you want to relive those moments, check out The Tom and Jerry Comedy Show.

Dragons: Race to the Edge

If you enjoyed adventurous stories with dragons, this show might catch your interest. You follow young dragon riders exploring new lands and facing various challenges.

The series offers a rich world with detailed mythology and strong characters. It’s a great pick if you like a mix of action and thoughtful storytelling. You can find all episodes streaming on Netflix in many regions. More details are available on the DreamWorks Dragons page.

Gabby’s Dollhouse

You might not remember Gabby’s Dollhouse from the ’80s, as it’s actually a modern show. It mixes live-action and animation to create a fun, colorful world for kids to explore.

Your child can enjoy creative play and simple problem-solving in each episode. For more about the show, you can check out Gabby’s Dollhouse on Netflix.

Wow! Wow! Wubbzy!

You might remember Wow! Wow! Wubbzy! as a fun and colorful show full of lively adventures. It teaches simple lessons about friendship and problem-solving through the activities of Wubbzy and his pals.

The series uses bright animation and cheerful music to keep your attention. If you enjoyed playful and educational kids’ shows, this one was likely part of your lineup. Learn more about Wow! Wow! Wubbzy! here.

Higglytown Heroes

If you grew up watching kids’ shows, you might remember Higglytown Heroes. It’s a colorful animated series that teaches you about community helpers and teamwork.

You follow a group of friends solving everyday problems by working together. The show uses fun stories to show how everyone plays an important role. Check out a full list of Higglytown Heroes episodes if you want to revisit the adventures.