12 Family TV Picks for Black History Month Weeknights

Introduction

As February arrives, the search for meaningful, entertaining, and culturally rich content takes center stage in households across the country. Black History Month is not just a time for reflection; it is a vibrant celebration of resilience, creativity, and joy. In 2025, the trend on platforms like TikTok and Pinterest is shifting away from purely educational documentaries for kids and moving toward "Edutainment"—shows that blend authentic storytelling with teachable moments that the whole family can enjoy together.

We are seeing a surge in nostalgia (hello, 90s sitcom reboots!) and a demand for animated series that don't just feature Black characters but center their diverse experiences in every frame. Whether you are looking for a laugh-out-loud comedy to unwind after a long day or a heartwarming drama that sparks deep conversations about history and identity, this curated list has something for every weeknight.

These 12 picks aren't just shows; they are invitations to connect, laugh, and learn as a family. So, grab your favorite snacks, gather around the screen, and get ready to build your own family watch-list tradition.

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1. The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder

Genre: Animated Comedy | Platform: Disney+

The reboot of the early 2000s classic has taken the internet by storm, becoming a consistent trending topic on Twitter (X) and TikTok whenever a new season drops. The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder follows Penny Proud and her eccentric family as they navigate life in the 2020s.

Why It’s Perfect for Black History Month: This isn't just a nostalgia play; it’s a bold reimagining that tackles modern issues like social media pressure, gender identity, and performative activism, all while staying true to its roots of Black joy and family chaos. The animation is gorgeous, featuring a "Black aesthetic" that Pinterest users love to pin for art inspiration.

Family Discussion Point: Watch the episodes that delve into history, such as the Juneteenth special, and discuss how the characters' understanding of their heritage helps them navigate their current challenges.

Pair with a Snack: Enjoy this colorful show with our Easy & Vibrant Jell-O Cookies for a fun, kid-friendly treat that matches the show's energy.

2. Raising Dion

Genre: Sci-Fi / Family Drama | Platform: Netflix

While many superhero shows focus on the hero, Raising Dion focuses on the mother. It tells the story of Nicole, a widowed mom trying to raise her son, Dion, who starts manifesting mysterious, Superman-like abilities.

Why It’s Trending: The "Black Boy Joy" movement sees a perfect representative in Dion. The show is praised for normalizing Black children in sci-fi spaces without making their race the only plot point. It balances high-stakes action with the grounded reality of single parenthood and community support.

Family Discussion Point: Talk about the "superpowers" that exist in your own family. What are the strengths (patience, creativity, humor) that help you get through tough times, just like Nicole and Dion?

3. Black-ish

Genre: Sitcom | Platform: Hulu / Disney+

For eight seasons, Black-ish reigned supreme as the modern gold standard for the Black family sitcom. It follows Dre and Rainbow Johnson as they raise their four (and eventually five) kids in an upper-middle-class neighborhood, constantly balancing their cultural identity with their surroundings.

Why It’s Essential Viewing: Though it has concluded, its legacy endures. Episodes covering topics like police brutality ("Hope") or Juneteenth are rebroadcast frequently during February because they handle heavy topics with a rare mix of humor and grace. It’s a masterclass in using comedy to bridge generational gaps.

Family Discussion Point: Dre often worries that his kids are losing touch with their culture. Ask your kids what traditions or family stories are most important to them and which ones they want to keep forever.

Pair with a Meal: A sitcom marathon needs comfort food. Try our Easy and Creamy Weeknight Creamy Beef & Bowtie Pasta for a hearty dinner that feeds a crowd.

4. The Wonder Years (2021)

Genre: Coming-of-Age / Period Drama | Platform: Hulu / Disney+

This reimagining of the beloved classic shifts the lens to the Williams family, a Black middle-class family living in Montgomery, Alabama, in the late 1960s. Narrated by Don Cheadle, it captures the turbulence and hope of the Civil Rights era through the eyes of 12-year-old Dean.

Why It’s Educational & Entertaining: It provides a "soft entry" into history for younger viewers. Instead of reading about the 60s in a textbook, they see it lived out through the eyes of a kid who just wants to play baseball and talk to his crush, all while history happens around him.

Family Discussion Point: Compare the school experiences of Dean in the 1960s with your children's experiences today. What has changed? What challenges unfortunately remain the same?

5. Family Reunion

Genre: Sitcom | Platform: Netflix

When the McKellan family moves from Seattle to small-town Georgia to be closer to extended family, culture shock ensues. Family Reunion is a throwback to the multi-camera sitcoms of the 90s, complete with a live audience feel and lessons on faith, family, and Southern tradition.

Why It’s a Cozy Watch: It features the legendary Loretta Devine as the matriarch, M'Dear. Her "old school" wisdom often clashes with the "new school" parenting of the younger generation, creating hilarious friction that every Black family will recognize. It celebrates the concept of the "village" raising the child.

Pair with a Meal: This show screams "Sunday Dinner." Serve it up with our Deliciously Perfect Roast Turkey to get that big family gathering vibe right at home.

6. Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum

Genre: Educational / Animation | Platform: PBS Kids

For the younger set (and parents who love history), Xavier Riddle is a hidden gem. The trio of friends travels back in time to meet historical figures when they were kids.

Why It’s Trending for 2025: PBS often releases special programming for Black History Month. Episodes featuring figures like Jackie Robinson, Maya Angelou, and George Washington Carver humanize these titans of history, making them relatable peers to your children rather than distant statues.

Family Discussion Point: After watching an episode, ask your child: "If you could travel back in time to meet one of these heroes, what question would you ask them?"

7. Ada Twist, Scientist

Genre: STEM / Animation | Platform: Netflix

Based on the best-selling book series, this show follows Ada, a young Black girl with an insatiable curiosity and a passion for science. Along with her best friends, she solves mysteries using the scientific method.

Why It’s Empowering: Representation in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) matters. Seeing a young Black girl as the lead scientist, asking questions and making discoveries, is powerful for young viewers. It’s bright, colorful, and relentlessly positive.

Pair with a Snack: Brain power needs fuel! Whip up a batch of Playful Piñata Cookies to celebrate the joy of discovery found in the show.

8. Karma’s World

Genre: Music / Animation | Platform: Netflix

Created by Ludacris, this series follows Karma Grant, an aspiring middle-school rapper and lyricist who uses her musical talent to solve problems and understand the world.

Why It’s a Hit: The music is genuinely catchy—parents won't mind listening to it in the background! It addresses nuanced topics like hair discrimination and self-esteem with a gentle touch that empowers young girls to use their voices.

Family Discussion Point: Karma uses rap to express her feelings. Challenge your family to come up with a four-line rhyme or poem about how they are feeling today.

9. The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air

Genre: Classic Sitcom | Platform: HBO Max / Hulu

The show that launched Will Smith into the stratosphere remains a cultural touchstone. When a street-smart teen from West Philly moves in with his wealthy aunt and uncle in Bel-Air, lifestyles clash in the funniest ways possible.

Why It’s Timeless: It bridges the gap between Gen X parents and Gen Alpha kids. The fashion is back in style (check any "90s aesthetic" board on Pinterest), and the jokes still land. Beyond the laughs, episodes like "Papa's Got a Brand New Excuse" deliver some of the most emotional acting in sitcom history.

Pair with a Meal: You can't watch a Philly-connected show without a hearty meal. Try our Easy Pizza Burger Bonanza for a fun, handheld dinner that fits the 90s vibe.

10. Sister, Sister

Genre: Classic Sitcom | Platform: Netflix

Tia and Tamera Mowry star as twins separated at birth who reunite as teenagers. One is bookish and reserved; the other is impulsive and fun-loving. When they move in together, they learn to navigate life, love, and their very different adoptive parents.

Why It’s Trending on TikTok: Clips of the twins' fashion and their relatable "boy trouble" moments frequently go viral on TikTok. It’s a wholesome, comforting watch that emphasizes the bond of sisterhood and the idea that family is what you make it.

Pair with a Snack: For a sweet treat to share with your "sister" (or family), bake our Deliciously Chewy Butter Pecan Cookies.

11. Everybody Hates Chris

Genre: Period Sitcom | Platform: Hulu / Peacock / Paramount+

Narrated by Chris Rock, this show chronicles his teenage years growing up in Brooklyn during the 1980s. It’s gritty, honest, and hilarious, tackling poverty, bullying, and family dynamics with a unique comedic voice.

Why It’s a Reality Check: It offers a different perspective on the Black experience compared to The Cosby Show or Fresh Prince. It shows a working-class family stretching every dollar, which resonates with many families today. The character of Julius (the dad) is iconic for knowing the price of everything.

Family Discussion Point: Julius is famous for his work ethic and budgeting. Use the show to have a lighthearted conversation about the "value of a dollar" and how your family manages resources.

12. Bookmarks: Celebrating Black Voices

Genre: Educational / Reading | Platform: Netflix

This isn't a traditional TV show but a collection of short episodes where prominent Black celebrities (like Lupita Nyong'o and Tiffany Haddish) read children's books by Black authors.

Why It’s Essential: It brings the library to your living room. The books chosen focus on themes of identity, justice, and self-love. It’s a quiet, calming alternative to cartoons that sparks a love for reading.

Pair with a Meal: Since this is a cozy, storytime vibe, go for a warm, comforting soup. Our Deliciously Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the perfect bowl of warmth to hold while you listen to a story.

Conclusion

Black History Month is a vast canvas. While schools often focus on the struggle and the civil rights movement—which is vital—your home can be a place where the focus expands to include Black joy, Black creativity, and the everyday magic of Black family life. These 12 shows offer a spectrum of experiences, from the scientific curiosity of Ada Twist to the wealthy hijinks of Fresh Prince, proving that there is no single way to be Black.

By integrating these shows into your weeknight routine, you aren't just entertaining your family; you are widening their worldview. You are normalizing diverse stories and creating a space where questions can be asked and laughter can be shared.

So tonight, don't just scroll endlessly through the streaming menu. Pick a title, cook a meal from the links above, and settle in for a night of quality family time that celebrates culture and connection.

Stream these shows on Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and HBO Max.

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FAQs

1. Are all these shows suitable for young children? Most of the shows listed, like Ada Twist, Scientist, Xavier Riddle, and The Proud Family, are rated specifically for kids. However, shows like Black-ish, The Wonder Years, and The Fresh Prince may contain mild language or mature themes suitable for older kids and teens. Always check the parental rating before viewing.

2. Where can I find more Black History Month content for kids? PBS Kids is an excellent resource, often curating specific playlists for February. Additionally, Netflix has a "Black Lives Matter" collection that includes many family-friendly titles.

3. Why is it important to watch these shows year-round, not just in February? Celebrating Black history is celebrating American history. Watching these shows year-round normalizes diversity and ensures that children see Black characters as protagonists in all types of stories, not just history lessons.

4. Are there any movies included in this list? This list focuses on TV series for weeknight viewing, but many of these shows have movie counterparts (like The Proud Family Movie). For movies, check out platforms like Disney+ which has a vast collection of Black-led films.

5. Can I watch these shows without a cable subscription? Yes, all the shows listed are available on major streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max, or Peacock.

6. What is a good snack to pair with The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air? Since the show is set in the 90s, nostalgic snacks like pizza rolls or our Playful Piñata Cookies are a great fit!

7. How can I use these shows to teach my kids about history? Shows like The Wonder Years and Xavier Riddle are direct history lessons. Use them as a jumping-off point to look up real events or people online together after the episode ends.

8. Is The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder different from the original? Yes, it is a revival with modern animation and updated themes relevant to Gen Z, though it retains the original voice cast and core family dynamics.

9. What recipes are good for a TV dinner night? Our Easy Weeknight Delight: Sizzling Chicken and Noodle Stir-Fry is fast, easy to eat in front of the TV, and delicious.

10. Do these shows feature diverse representation within the Black community? Absolutely. From the mixed-race family in Black-ish to the Afro-Latina representation in Karma's World (via her friends) and the socio-economic diversity in Fresh Prince, these shows highlight that the Black experience is not a monolith.