As a parent, I’m always on the lookout for ways to support my child’s learning without turning it into a chore. Early reading skills are so important—but let’s be honest, keeping a preschooler or kindergartner engaged with phonics and letter sounds can be tough. That’s why I’m a huge fan of using YouTube as a tool for early literacy.
There’s a lot of content out there, and not all of it is worth your child’s screen time. So I’ve rounded up five YouTube channels that I’ve personally used (and loved) with my own kid. These channels are fun, educational, and most importantly, they actually help early readers build foundational skills.
1. Alphablocks
This channel has been a total game-changer in our house. Each letter is a fun little character with its own personality, and they “hold hands” to form words. It’s a fantastic introduction to phonics and word-building, all through adorable animation.
💡 Why I love it: It’s super visual and really helps my child understand how letters blend to make words. Plus, the songs are catchy enough that I find myself humming them later (in a good way!).
2. StoryBots on Netflix Jr.
The StoryBots are curious little characters who answer big questions—like how the alphabet works or what certain words mean. While full episodes are on Netflix, the Netflix Jr. YouTube channel has tons of short clips and songs that focus on literacy and vocabulary.
💡 Why I love it: It’s smart, silly, and sneaks in learning without my kid even realizing it. The humor also works for adults, so it’s one of the few shows I actually enjoy watching with my child.
3. Jack Hartmann Kids Music Channel
Jack Hartmann is a one-man learning party. His videos teach everything from letter sounds to sight words—and they’re all set to upbeat music that gets kids moving.
💡 Why I love it: My kid will dance and learn phonics at the same time? Yes, please. Jack’s songs are also great for reinforcing concepts they’re learning in preschool or kindergarten.
4. KidsTV123
If your child prefers a more calming screen-time experience, this channel is perfect. It offers slower-paced, soothing educational songs and animations that focus on early literacy and numeracy.
💡 Why I love it: It’s simple and easy to follow—ideal for quieter moments or winding down before bed. The clarity helps my child really focus on the words and sounds.
5. Peachie Speechie
This one is especially helpful if your child is working on speech sounds or articulation. Peachie Speechie is run by a speech-language pathologist and offers fun videos that teach kids how to pronounce different sounds.
💡 Why I love it: Even if your child doesn’t need speech therapy, the focus on phonemic awareness and clear articulation is incredibly helpful for early readers. Plus, the videos are short and really engaging.
Final Thoughts
Early reading doesn’t have to be a fight or even a “lesson.” With the right YouTube channels, it can be a part of your everyday routine, whether you're watching during breakfast, a quiet afternoon, or those unpredictable post-nap moods.
📌 Parent tip: I like to watch along when I can. It gives me the chance to reinforce what they’re learning with a quick “What sound did the B make again?” or “Can you think of another word that rhymes with ‘cat’?”
Got a favorite channel I missed? I’d love to hear about it—drop it in the comments!
If you're looking for more screen time that actually supports early reading, check out my YouTube channel, Rella B Books. I share fun, interactive read-alouds and sing-alongs that help little ones fall in love with books, build vocabulary, and get excited about reading—all designed with early learners (and busy parents!) in mind.
