Introducing Young Dinosaur Enthusiasts to the World of Jurassic World
If you’re a fan of Jurassic Park or Jurassic World, you might be eager to share these movies with your family. However, if your children are still young, they may not be ready for the intense action and violence that comes with the franchise. The good news is that there are several kid-friendly alternatives that can introduce younger audiences to the world of dinosaurs in a fun and age-appropriate way.
For parents who have young dino lovers at home, it’s possible to spark their interest in the prehistoric world without overwhelming them. Many kids as young as two years old can identify various dinosaur species, making them natural experts in their own right. Here are some of the best shows that can help bring the world of Jurassic World into your living room.
LEGO Jurassic World: The Secret Exhibit
One of the most engaging ways to introduce young children to Jurassic World is through LEGO Jurassic World: The Secret Exhibit. This miniseries is designed specifically for mini dino fans and offers a 22-minute format that aligns with shorter attention spans. Based loosely on Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, the show replaces the typical dinosaur violence with humor and creativity, making it an ideal choice for younger viewers.
The series features beloved characters like Owen, Claire, and Blue, but in a more lighthearted setting. It’s a great way to familiarize kids with the universe while keeping things entertaining. The show is rated TV-Y7 and available on Paramount+.
Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous
For older kids, Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous offers a more intense but still accessible experience. This series follows six teenagers who find themselves on a camp on Isla Nubar, where dinosaurs escape and create chaos. While the show includes more dramatic elements and higher stakes than the LEGO series, it’s still suitable for kids aged eight and up.
The series introduces new dinosaur species and characters, while also featuring familiar ones like Velociraptors and T. Rex. With its mix of adventure and teen drama, this show helps curious kids become more familiar with the Jurassic World universe. Seasons 1–4 are rated TV-Y7, while Season 5 is rated TV-PG and available on Netflix.
Beyond the Jurassic Universe: Other Kid-Friendly Dinosaur Shows
In addition to Jurassic World-related content, there are many other shows that cater to young dinosaur lovers. These programs offer a variety of themes, from scientific exploration to high-energy adventures.
Dino Dan/Dino Dana/Dino Dex
These three related series follow a dino-obsessed child who receives a magical dinosaur field guide that allows them to see real-life dinosaurs. Through experiments and hypothesis testing, the shows teach kids about dinosaur behavior in an engaging way. The content is targeted at preschoolers and elementary school kids, with minimal conflict and no scary or violent scenes. Rated TV-Y7, these shows are available on Amazon Prime.
Dinosaur Train
For preschoolers who love both trains and dinosaurs, Dinosaur Train is a perfect choice. This PBS Kids series follows a family of Pteranodon kids and their T. Rex brother, Buddy, as they travel on a train that visits different dinosaur habitats. Each episode introduces new species and teaches kids about scientific concepts like hypotheses and ecosystems.
With colorful animation and friendly characters, the show is both educational and entertaining. It’s rated TV-Y and available on PBS Kids.
Gigantosaurus
Set in a land filled with talking dinosaurs, Gigantosaurus follows four dino kids as they solve problems and explore their world. One of the main characters, Gigantosaurus, is unique because he doesn’t speak, which adds an element of mystery. The show balances character development with lessons on teamwork, confidence, and environmental awareness.
Rated TV-Y, Gigantosaurus is available on Disney+ and is a safe option for younger viewers. Its blend of humor and problem-solving makes it appealing to both preschoolers and elementary school kids.
Dinotrux
For families looking for more action and less science, Dinotrux offers a fun alternative. This show combines dinosaurs with robotic vehicles, answering the question, “What if Transformers were also dinosaurs?” The story follows dino-truck hybrids and their sidekicks as they work together to build and create. While not focused on factual information, the show emphasizes teamwork and problem-solving.
It’s rated TV-Y7 and available on Netflix, making it a great choice for kids who enjoy high-octane adventures.
Conclusion
There are plenty of options to keep young dinosaur fans entertained while preparing them for the full Jurassic Park and Jurassic World experience. From educational shows to action-packed adventures, these programs provide a safe and engaging way to introduce children to the world of dinosaurs. By the time they’re ready for the big-screen adventures, they may already know what a Gallimimus is—or even correct you on the size of a Velociraptor!