Our family (kids ages 8 and 9) has watched the entire series and are now watching Voyager. This is a wonderful show for opening family discussion: prejudice, sexism, addiction..it's all there! I believe this series is more appropriate for young kids than the original because it has very little insidious sexism- the mini skirts of the original ST seem very sexist to me, as does Kirk's constant womanizing. There are more strong female characters here and they are not prancing around in go-go boots!
This is the best TV series ever made. Adventure, good role models, good morals, interesting characters, a vision of the future as a better place with loftier goals for humans -- exploration, interest in and appreciation of the new and different, the opposite of xenophobia. It is great for children and adults (only caution is that there is some violence -- battles, and also sometimes death so parents should consider this when determining what is appropriate for their own children).
Enjoy!
I have been a Star Trek fan since I was a kid and The Next Generation started me out and then I moved to the Original Series my siblings watched when they were kids. It's a great watch for anyone who loves sci-fi and space.
I grew up watching TNG, and in my late 20's I find myself going back just for the philosophy and clean entertainment. The show helped me to be more ethical, analytical, and accepting towards other beings.
I felt that it was highly beneficial for my growth (especially as a young male), and emphasised morality and responsibility, without the overemphasis of militarism and blind obedience to authority.
Overall, I highly recommend this series to viewers of all ages, and especially for children whose parents are looking for a healthy alternative to the modern garbage on the tv today. It is intellectually gratifying, and promotes a future society in which humanity's greatest traits are exalted, and a peaceful galactic existence is possible.
(On a personal note, if governments on this planet today behaved more like the Federation, we would definitely be living in a more just, holistic, and harmonious society.)