Poster for Numberblocks

Numberblocks

A great pick

Ages 2–6First shown 2017

The adventures of ten friends, in Numberland who can always count on each other. Each friend has a different ability that helps them on their adventures.

Our verdict

  • Good influence 4/5
  • Parent appeal 4/5
  • Well made 5/5

Numberblocks is widely celebrated for its innovative and meticulously crafted approach to teaching early numeracy through visual storytelling. Most reviewers find the show witty and surprisingly enjoyable for adults, though some find the sensory experience and catchy songs to be slightly overwhelming. The characters model a collaborative and enthusiastic attitude toward learning in a gentle, conflict-free environment.

Why these scores

Good influence

Does it show behaviour you'd be happy to see copied?

4out of 5

Characters are consistently kind, collaborative, and show a genuine enthusiasm for learning. While the show is more focused on mathematics than complex social-emotional guidance, the gentle nature of the stories and the lack of conflict provide a positive environment for preschoolers.

Parent appeal

Will you enjoy watching it with them?

4out of 5

Many parents find the show surprisingly witty and entertaining, citing clever parodies of film noir, sci-fi, and musical theatre. Although some reviewers find the repetition or sensory intensity taxing, the consensus is that it is significantly more intellectually engaging than standard preschool fare.

Well made

Are the writing, animation and sound made with care?

5out of 5

The series is highly regarded for its ingenious visual metaphors, where mathematical principles are baked into the character designs and animation. Educators and parents alike praise the high quality of the songwriting, the tight scripts, and the meticulous attention to educational accuracy.

Watch-outs

Overstimulating: not enough data

Evidence is highly contradictory regarding the show's pace. Some sources describe it as calm and logical, while others find the frequent cuts and busy visuals to be a frantic sensory barrage for young viewers.

Toy-led: not enough data

We haven't found enough independent sources to say yet.

Grating audio: not enough data

While many parents enjoy the high-quality, musical-theatre style songs, others describe them as persistent, irritating earworms and find certain character voices to be loud or shrieking.

Where to watch

Stream for free

  • Not that we know of

Stream with a subscription

  • Not that we know of

Rent or buy

  • Not that we know of

DVD and Blu-ray

Last updated 11 October 2026.