This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Casper Libero chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.
In Brazil, Children’s Day is celebrated every year on October 12th. The date creates a feeling that comes to us during the entire month: Missing what once was, and also makes us live again the memories of what we used to do, such as the toys we had, our old friends and our favorites animated series! And so, it is more than just a holiday for kids, it’s a collective reminder of a generation that grew up watching cartoons on DVDs and Saturday morning TV shows.
And since Children’s Day is all about reconnecting with what was once pure and fun, and also bring us a sense of nostalgia and missing the old days, we’re traveling back to the age of early 2000s animation. Get ready for a memory reboot with the most iconic cartoons that shaped our humor, creativity, and imagination.
SpongeBob SquarePants
Since its first episode, aired in 1999, SpongeBob SquarePants has become one of the most beloved animated shows of all time. The series follows the ever-optimistic SpongeBob and his quirky friends in the underwater city of Bikini Bottom
Its absurd humor and unforgettable characters turned it into a pop culture symbol. In Brazil, it was present on almost every kid’s television and remains one of the most rerun cartoons to this day. SpongeBob never ages, and the meme-worthy “I’m ready!” still perfectly captures the spirit of those who grew up with him.
What’s New, Scooby-Doo?
The cartoon brought a modern twist to the classic 1960s franchise. Keeping the same mystery and comedy formula, the new version incorporated contemporary elements, like the internet and tech culture references.
The show followed the same iconic crew: Fred, Daphne, Velma, Shaggy, and of course, Scooby-Doo; as they investigated supposedly supernatural cases. With its updated animation style and pop-punk soundtrack, the reboot managed to stay true to the original spirit while captivating a new generation.
In Brazil, Scooby-Doo remained a TV staple throughout the 2000s, becoming a childhood symbol for many.
The Fairly OddParents
This animated series captured audiences around the world with its colorful design and imaginative concept. The series follows Timmy Turner, a kid who granted two fairly godparents: Cosmo and Wanda, who can grant any wish he makes.
With captivating comedy humor and a subtle critique of childhood frustrations, the show explored themes like loneliness, responsibility, and imagination in a playful way. Its bold visual style and dynamic storytelling made it a global hit.
In Brazil, the cartoon aired on major networks like Globo, Fox Kids, and Disney Channel, solidifying its place as one of the most memorable cartoons of the decade. Beyond ratings, The Fairly OddParents became an emotional and aesthetic reference point for the generation that grew up alongside it.
Today, traces of its distinctive design and color palette, vibrant pinks, neon greens, and sharp outlines, can still be seen in nostalgic fashion choices, digital art, and even Halloween costumes inspired by the show’s characters. The cartoon didn’t just entertain: it visually shaped how a generation expresses creativity and irony in the internet age.
Ben 10
Premiering in 2005, Ben 10 quickly became one of Cartoon Network’s biggest hits. The show follows the 10-year-old Ben Tennyson, who discovers the Omnitrix, an alien device that allows him to transform into various extraterrestrial beings, each with unique powers.
Blending adventure, sci-fi, and humor, the show tackled important themes like courage, growth, and responsibility. In Brazil, Ben 10 was a massive success across multiple platforms, becoming a cultural phenomenon among kids and preteens, and a defining symbol of 2000s animation.
Winx Club
The animation brought a new perspective to animated shows aimed at young girls. The story follows a group of teenage fairies: Bloom, Stella, Flora, Musa, Tecna, and Aisha. In the plot, they attend the magical school of Alfea, while facing villains and navigating the ups and downs of adolescence.
With its bold aesthetic, futuristic design, and with real-life themes portrayed in an affective way through fantasy , the show promoted values like friendship, diversity, and self-confidence. Its immediate success led to films, spin-offs, toy lines, and a dedicated global fanbase.
In Brazil, it aired on TV Cultura and became a great success. With its vibrant visuals and empowering characters, Winx Club transcended cultural borders and continues to influence new generations to this day.
Why Do These Cartoons Still Matter?
Rewatching these classics isn’t just about nostalgia, it’s all about revisiting the creative and narrative language that shaped an entire generation’s imagination.
These shows taught lessons about friendship, confidence, humor, and storytelling, long before communication majors would ever study those concepts in class.
Rewatching this series is a reminder that growing up doesn’t mean letting go of what’s playful. Because deep down, we all still have a little SpongeBob, Winx, or Scooby-Doo in us, ready to laugh, dream, and solve the mysteries of adult life with the same energy we once had in front of the TV.
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The article below was edited by Eloá Costa.
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