French YouTube Channels For Kids
Our children never took a single formal language lesson, yet they became fully bilingual in French and English. How? A big part of their journey was simply watching YouTube cartoons and movies in their original version from an early age. By immersing themselves in authentic content, they trained their ears, re-enacted scenes, sang along to songs, and played their favourite characters—until one day, they understood everything they heard.
If you’re looking for engaging and effective ways to expose your child to French, we’ve put together a list of our favourite French YouTube channels for kids. These channels offer a fun and natural way to learn French through immersive storytelling, songs, and engaging content.
Mouk – A Journey Around the World
Mouk is a delightful French animated series that follows two adventurous friends, Mouk and Chavapa, as they travel the world on their bicycles, discovering new cultures, meeting local people, and experiencing the wonders of different countries. From the snowy landscapes of Canada to the bustling streets of Tokyo, every episode introduces young viewers to new traditions, customs, and languages in a fun and engaging way.
Created by Marc Boutavant and produced by Millimages, Mouk first aired in 2011 on France 5. The series is known for its bright, hand-drawn animation and its warm, curious approach to global exploration. Each adventure highlights cultural diversity and encourages an open-minded, curious attitude toward the world—making it a fantastic learning tool for children and adults alike.
For French learners, Mouk is an excellent way to improve listening comprehension while discovering international cultures. The dialogue is simple yet natural, making it perfect for beginners looking to immerse themselves in spoken French.
🎥 Where to watch? Episodes are available on YouTube —so hop on your bike and explore the world with Mouk and Chavapa! 🌍🚴✨
Il était une fois… – A Classic French Educational Series for All Ages
If you grew up in the 80s or 90s, chances are you’ve heard of Il était une fois… (Once Upon a Time…). This legendary French animated series, created by Albert Barillé, has educated and entertained generations with its engaging approach to science and history. Translated into more than 80 languages and watched by over 4 billion viewers worldwide, it remains a cornerstone of French educational entertainment.
One of its most beloved adaptations, Il était une fois… la Vie (Once Upon a Time… Life), originally released in 1986, takes viewers on a fascinating journey inside the human body. Restored in 2016 and made available on Netflix in 2019, the series introduces young audiences to biology through endearing characters like Maestro, the wise old guide, and Hémo and Globine, the red blood cells. Every organ, cell, and even viruses are brought to life in a way that makes complex concepts easy to understand. Beyond its scientific accuracy, the show also promotes healthy habits and self-care in a way that is both fun and engaging.
The series’ cultural impact is undeniable, with its iconic theme song—composed by Michel Legrand and performed by Sandra Kim—still remembered by many: “La vie, la vie, la vie…” (“Life, life, life…”). The melody is instantly recognisable and has stayed with viewers for decades, making it a nostalgic and enriching experience for both children and adults.
For French learners, Il était une fois… offers an excellent way to develop listening comprehension while exploring a key part of French pop culture. The clear pronunciation, engaging storytelling, and visual support make it accessible even to beginners.
🎥 Where to watch? Many episodes are available on YouTube —so dive in and discover this timeless French classic!
Les Histoires du Père Castor – A Beloved French Storytelling Series
Les Histoires du Père Castor (Father Beaver’s Stories) is a charming French-Canadian animated series that has captivated young audiences since its debut in 1993. Based on the popular Père Castor children’s books published by Flammarion, the series brings classic tales to life in an engaging and heartwarming way.
The show follows Père Castor, a wise and gentle beaver, who shares stories with his three children—Câline, Grignote, and Benjamin. Each short, six-minute episode presents a different fable, folktale, or moral story, leaving the young beavers (and viewers) to reflect on its meaning. This format encourages curiosity and critical thinking while providing entertaining and enriching storytelling.
First aired on Canal J and later on France 3 as part of Les Minikeums, the series quickly became a childhood favourite in France. It was also broadcast in Quebec on Radio-Canada from 1996, making it a cherished part of French-speaking culture on both sides of the Atlantic. The show continued to be enjoyed for decades, with reruns on France 5 (Zouzous) until 2015 and on TiJi.
For French learners, Les Histoires du Père Castor is an excellent resource for improving listening skills. The clear narration, slow pacing, and engaging storytelling make it accessible for all levels. Plus, it offers a glimpse into traditional and modern French children’s literature, making it both a language-learning tool and a cultural experience.
🎥 Where to watch? Many episodes are available on YouTube —immerse yourself in these delightful French tales and enjoy the magic of storytelling!
C’est Pas Sorcier – The Ultimate French Educational Show
If you’re looking for a fun and engaging way to improve your French while learning about science, history, and the world around you, C’est Pas Sorcier (It’s Not Rocket Science) is the perfect show! This legendary French educational series, which aired from 1993 to 2014 on France 3, has been a staple of French classrooms and households for decades.
Hosted by the charismatic trio—Fred, Jamy, and Sabine—the show breaks down complex topics into simple, easy-to-understand explanations. Fred and Sabine explore real-world locations, conducting experiments and asking questions, while Jamy, stationed in his famous truck, provides clear scientific explanations using models and animations. Whether it’s volcanoes, the human body, space travel, or historical events, C’est Pas Sorcier makes learning exciting and accessible.
One of the reasons for its enduring popularity is its dynamic and playful approach to education. The show’s mix of humour, real-life demonstrations, and animated explanations makes even the most complicated subjects feel fun and approachable. Its clear and well-articulated French is perfect for language learners looking to expand their vocabulary while following engaging stories.
For over 20 years, C’est Pas Sorcier has inspired generations of French speakers and remains one of the best educational resources available. Whether you’re a curious adult or a French learner looking for engaging content, this show is a fantastic way to train your ear while diving into fascinating topics.
🎥 Where to watch? Many episodes are available on YouTube —so hop in Jamy’s truck and start exploring the wonders of science in French! 🚛💡
Lucky Luke – The Cowboy Who Shoots Faster Than His Shadow
Lucky Luke is one of France’s most iconic comic book heroes, brought to life in several animated series and films. Created by Belgian artist Morris in 1946, this legendary cowboy has been entertaining generations with his quick draw, sharp wit, and unwavering sense of justice.
Set in the Wild West, Lucky Luke follows the adventures of the lone cowboy as he faces notorious outlaws—most famously the bumbling Dalton brothers—and restores order wherever he goes. With humour, clever storytelling, and memorable sidekicks like his sarcastic horse, Jolly Jumper, and the dim-witted dog, Rantanplan, Lucky Luke has remained a beloved figure in French-speaking pop culture.
For French learners, the Lucky Luke cartoons offer an excellent opportunity to improve listening skills while enjoying classic Western adventures. The dialogue is clear, the humour is engaging, and the stories are entertaining yet easy to follow. If you’re new to Lucky Luke, I highly recommend starting with the older episodes, which have a distinctive charm, great storytelling, and a nostalgic animation style that I personally prefer.
🎥 Where to watch? Many classic Lucky Luke episodes are available on YouTube —so saddle up and dive into the Wild West, French-style! 🤠🌵
Totally Spies! – A Spy Adventure with a French Touch
Totally Spies! is a French animated series that became a global hit, following the adventures of three teenage girls—Sam, Clover, and Alex—who juggle high school life in Beverly Hills while secretly working as spies for the World Organization of Human Protection (WOOHP). With its mix of action, humour, and fashion, the show is often described as a mix between Charlie’s Angels and Clueless, making it both exciting and fun to watch.
Although it has an American setting and vibe, Totally Spies! was created and produced in France by Marathon Media and originally aired in French before being dubbed into many languages. The dialogue is fast-paced and filled with casual, everyday expressions, making it a great resource for French learners who want to pick up natural speech patterns and slang.
If you’re looking for an engaging way to improve your listening skills while following thrilling missions and teenage drama, Totally Spies! is an excellent choice. Plus, it’s a nostalgic favourite for many who grew up in the early 2000s!
🎥 Where to watch? Many episodes are available on YouTube —so get ready to dive into the stylish world of espionage en français! 🕵️♀️💄💻
Martin Mystère
If your child enjoys mystery, adventure, and a touch of the paranormal, Martin Mystère is a fantastic choice. This animated series follows Martin, a quirky teenage investigator, his stepsister Diana, and their caveman sidekick Java as they work for “The Center,” a secret organization that studies supernatural phenomena.
Blending humour, action, and spooky mysteries, the show introduces young viewers to thrilling stories while exposing them to natural French dialogue. Originally co-produced by Marathon Media (France) and Image Entertainment Corporation (Canada), it became a beloved series in France.
Where to watch: Full episodes of Martin Mystère are available on YouTube —Perfect for older kids who love detective stories with a paranormal twist, Martin Mystère is a fun way to hear authentic French while following captivating adventures! 🔎👻
Oskar et Malika – A Daily Adventure… That Always Runs Late!
Oskar et Malika, toujours en retard (Oskar and Malika, Always Late) is a French animated series that brings a creative twist to the daily walk to school. Every morning, best friends Oskar and Malika leave home on time, determined not to be late—but something extraordinary always gets in their way. Whether it’s a time loop, a UFO sighting, or a magical creature, their short journey turns into an unexpected adventure.
Created by Fabrice de Costil and produced by Watch Next Media, the series first aired in 2019 on France 4. With fun, fast-paced episodes full of surprises, Oskar et Malika is a great watch for young audiences and French learners alike. The dialogue is clear and engaging, making it a perfect choice for beginners who want to improve their listening skills while enjoying a lighthearted adventure.
🎥 Where to watch? Episodes can be found on YouTube —so get ready to follow Oskar and Malika’s exciting (and always late!) journey to school. 🚲⏳✨
Flapacha, où es-tu ? – A Summer Camp Mystery
Flapacha, où es-tu ? (Flapacha, Where Are You?) is a French animated series that takes place in a lively summer camp, where a group of children embarks on daily adventures in the great outdoors. Their biggest mystery? Finding Flapacha, a strange and elusive creature that supposedly roams the forest.
Created by Christelle Naga and produced by Les Armateurs, the series first aired in 2010 on France 5. With its beautiful hand-drawn animation and charming humour, Flapacha, où es-tu ? captures the magic of childhood curiosity and friendship. The show also introduces themes of nature, teamwork, and discovery, making it both entertaining and educational.
For French learners, this series is a great way to hear natural conversational French, with clear dialogue and vocabulary related to outdoor life, animals, and exploration. Its fun and relaxed pace makes it an enjoyable resource for improving listening skills.
🎥 Where to watch? You can find episodes on YouTube —so if you love nature, adventure, and a touch of mystery, join the campers on their quest to find Flapacha! 🌲🔍🦉
Les Contes de mon Enfance – Classic Fairy Tales Brought to Life
Les Contes de mon Enfance (Tales of My Childhood) is a French animated series that brings timeless fairy tales to the screen in a beautifully traditional style. Produced in the 1990s by Jetlag Productions and CinéGroupe, the series adapts some of the world’s most beloved stories, including Cinderella, Snow White, The Little Mermaid, and Pinocchio.
Unlike fast-paced modern cartoons, Les Contes de mon Enfance takes a gentle, storybook approach, making it perfect for French learners who want to improve their listening skills with clear narration and classic storytelling. The animation style is reminiscent of traditional European fairy tale illustrations, immersing viewers in a nostalgic and magical world.
Since these tales are universally known, they provide an excellent opportunity for learners to focus on the French language without struggling to follow the plot. Whether you’re a fan of fairy tales or looking for a relaxing way to practice French, this series is a wonderful choice!
🎥 Where to watch?While not as widely available as other French animated series, some episodes can be found on YouTube. 📖✨
Les Contes de la Rue Broca – Magical Tales from a Parisian Street
Les Contes de la Rue Broca (The Tales of Broca Street) is a classic French animated series based on the beloved book by Pierre Gripari. Originally published in 1967, these whimsical and slightly mischievous tales have enchanted generations of children in France. The TV adaptation, which aired in 1995, brings these magical short stories to life with charming animation and a unique blend of humour and fantasy.
Set in a small grocery store on Rue Broca in Paris, the series follows a group of children who listen to fantastical stories told by the shopkeeper. Witches, talking furniture, and enchanted objects are all part of this imaginative world, making it a perfect mix of fairy tale and urban legend.
For French learners, Les Contes de la Rue Broca is an excellent resource for improving listening skills, as the narration is clear, and the stories are engaging without being too complex. Additionally, the series offers a glimpse into classic French storytelling traditions, filled with wordplay, irony, and wit.
🎥 Where to watch? Some episodes can be found on YouTube —so if you love fairy tales with a Parisian twist, this series is a must-watch! 🏙️✨📖
