The purpose of this study is to theoretically explain the role of children's cartoons in the development of early age and pre-school children. The first part of the study defines the early age and pre-school children, how their social, emotional, cognitive and physical development takes place and what is the importance of family and institutional education. The second part of the study is devoted to the definition of cartoons, their purpose, their characteristics and a historical review of their development. A conclusion on the role of children's cartoons in the development of early and pre-school children can be derived by looking at the verbal and nonverbal messages transmitted by violent content, stereotypes found in scenes containing prosocial behavior and the musical background of cartoons. Given that primary education takes place within the family and the institution, most often a kindergarten, it is important to have good communication and collaboration between these two systems. This allows the activities of two parties to be coordinated which reduces the possibility of adopting negative behavior patterns from cartoons and increases the possibility of a positive impact on the development of children’s personalities as a whole.