In the spirit of our homecoming theme, Norse Tunes, I wanted to take us back to the cartoons that hold a special place in our hearts. I’ve listed my top 10 most nostalgic and influential cartoons of the early 2000s.
As part of the last generation to grow up without streaming services, we once looked forward to these cartoons every day. You’ll find some rankings you may agree with and some may not, but my #1 spot is undeniable.
10) “Courage the Cowardly Dog”
Despite his name, Courage may not have been the bravest dog, but he always managed to surprise us–and himself–in the end. Living in the middle of nowhere with his grandparents, Courage found himself in situations where he was the only solution. Courage taught us that bravery can come from anyone.
9) “The Magic School Bus”
Ms. Frizzle and her students explored anywhere and everywhere on their magical, shapeshifting school bus. Ms. Frizzle managed to do the impossible–make learning fun. From traveling through space and the human body to visiting the past, Ms. Frizzle educated us on countless fascinating subjects.
8) “Arthur”
“Arthur” was one of those cartoons everyone could relate to. He experienced common childhood trials and tribulations like homework, bullies and siblings. The cartoon had an array of diverse characters—whether they were nerdy, foodies or tomboys— that included every viewer.
7) “Super Why!”
With a very catchy theme song, “Super Why!” was a hidden gem cartoon on PBS. Mixing fairytale themes with superpowers, this cartoon made reading, writing and grammar fun.
6) “Chowder”
All the young boy Chowder wants is to become a chef. When he takes an apprenticeship with a famous chef, he’s introduced to a city with zany characters and all kinds of mischief. “Chowder” makes for a fun watch.
5) “The Fairly OddParents”
Timmy is an average kid that no one understands. He’s neglected by his parents and tormented by his babysitter, but luckily he has fairies to help guide him through childhood’s troubles. “The Fairly OddParents” showed real problems that children face but are rarely talked about.
4) “Dexter’s Laboratory”
Unlike the silly, reckless main characters we usually see, Dexter is a meticulous, orderly child genius who spends his time inventing in his secret laboratory. “Dexter Laboratory” appealed most to those children interested in science and engineering. With a nosy older sister and a school nemesis, Dexter always had his fair share of problems to solve.
3) “Scooby-Doo”
These meddling kids and their dog have been solving crimes and unmasking criminals since 1969. This timeless cartoon has been reinvented over the years through countless series and movies. Viewers enjoy searching for clues and solving the crime alongside the mystery gang.
2) “Phineas and Ferb”
Brothers Phineas and Ferb have nothing to do during their endless summer vacation, so why not create a roller coaster that goes to space in their backyard? With impressive, unbelievable (for their mom, literally unbelievable) inventions and some fun musical numbers, “Phineas and Ferb” is a show everyone can enjoy.
1) “SpongeBob SquarePants”
For 26 years, SpongeBob and his Bikini Bottom friends have been entertaining kids and adults alike. A free-spirited sponge, SpongeBob only wants to go to work and have fun. Whether he was jellyfish hunting with his best friend Patrick, annoying his neighbor Squidward, doing karate with Sandy or hanging out with his pet snail Gary, SpongeBob is always up for a good time. This cartoon has harbored some of the most notable jokes and staples of our generation.