Parenting comes with late nights, school sports, birthday chaos—and endless debates about what our kids watch and listen to. In Episode 7 of the Dad Livin Podcast, we dove into one of our most fun conversations yet: hot takes on kids entertainment. From Disney movie rankings to the most annoying kids songs ever written, we break down what hits, what flops, and why dads everywhere can relate.
Disney Movies (and other brands): The Best of the Last Decade
When it comes to Disney magic, every parent has opinions. According to ratings and our own family experiences, these movies sparked the biggest reactions:
- Inside Out (2015) – Topped the list with its emotional rollercoaster and surprisingly deep parenting lessons.
- Zootopia (2016) – A creative take on diversity and teamwork wrapped in an animal adventure.
- Moana (2016) – A family favorite featuring epic songs (and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson stealing the show).
- Coco (2017) – Powerful storytelling and music that hit dads and kids alike.
- Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018) – Groundbreaking animation that kept the kids glued and parents impressed.
Other mentions? Encanto, Turning Red, Toy Story 4, and the controversial Lightyear. Let’s just say, not all Disney decisions sit well in Dad Nation.
Top Kids Shows of All Time (Our Dad-Approved List)
Shows shape more than just screen time—they shape family culture. Here’s what made the cut:
- Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood – Timeless lessons in kindness.
- Sesame Street – Still iconic after 50+ years.
- Bluey – Modern parenting gold (and a little bit of “dad guilt” inspiration).
- Reading Rainbow & Schoolhouse Rock – 90s kids remember these classics.
- Wild Kratts & Dora the Explorer – Blending education with fun.
Of course, our kids keep us humble with their own list: Bluey, Paw Patrol, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, and Blippi. Yes, we had the Miss Rachel vs. Blippi debate. Spoiler: nobody wins.
Kids Songs: The Good, The Bad, and The Just Plain Annoying
Every parent has a soundtrack they can’t escape. Here are the ones that topped our conversation:
- Baby Shark (do do do do do do) – You sang it in your head, didn’t you?
- Happy – Pharrell Williams – Thanks to Minions, this one lives rent-free in our heads.
- Can’t Stop the Feeling – Justin Timberlake – A family dance-party staple.
- Let It Go – Frozen – Beautiful the first 50 times… after that, send help.
- This Is Me – The Greatest Showman – Inspiring for kids, catchy enough for parents.
We also confessed to using our own playlists to hack the system—teaching our kids to love Imagine Dragons, Metallica, and even K-Pop along the way.
Why It Matters: Parenting Reflections Through Entertainment
What starts as “just a cartoon” or “just a song” often becomes a way for dads to connect with their kids. From PBS shows teaching empathy to animated movies that sneak in life lessons, these moments shape both our children’s world—and our fatherhood journeys.
Family entertainment gives us nostalgia, teaches values, and sometimes tests our patience (looking at you, Cocomelon). But most of all, it gives us memories we’ll laugh about for years.
Join the Conversation
That’s our hot take, but now we want yours:
- What’s the best Disney movie of the last decade?
- Which kids show do you actually enjoy watching with your little ones?
- What song drives you the most insane?
Drop your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to subscribe to Dad Livin on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
Because parenting is messy, hilarious, and meaningful—and when it comes to kids entertainment, every dad has a hot take.
