Blapper of Water
One aspect is the aesthetics. If it's, say, a puppet show, people will probably think of Sesame Street and think it's a kid show no matter what (Dont Hug Me Im Scared notwithstanding). Doctor Who is a good example of a family show that appeals to both kids and adults. I think a major factor there is the presentation of ideas, where it isn't always telling the audience what's wrong or what the conflict is. There's generally simple conflicts and easy-to-understand solutions without treating the audience like they couldn't have figure it out for themselves.
Look at all that shiny stuff ain't they pretty
Cape Malleum Majorem
Kids are probably more astute and sophisticated than adults give them credit for. Unfortunately, most "kid shows" tend to be dumbed down a little too much (sometimes way too much.) So we wind up with totally inane crap like Teletubbies and Barney the Purple Dinosaur.
If you don't assume the (kid) viewers are morons, and present the information in a clear, concise format without "talking down," then chances are it may appeal to adults as well.
This Space Intentionally Left Blank.
not saying that most cartoons, comics, or books don't do this but it's not so often you something successfully get a kid audience as well as a adult one.so that brings me to one point, I have a cartoon that's a rated TV -y7 show about bugs. I wasn't sure if I could is a edutainment show since it felt limiting to what I wanted to do. see, I plan on doing some arcs on that show but they don't take a whole season. there subtle but still there and when you watch the episodes in a certain order, you'll notice it, providing that build up.
this brings me to a question I've asked quite awhile, will adults also kinda like it? not love it just enjoy it with their kids. what does it take for a show to get a lot of adults to argue over it or just talk about in a passing conversation. I know that sounds weird for me to say that but I really wouldn't mind because I don't like treating my child audience like they're idiots. it is aimed for 7+ after all, because I don't care if kids don't watch cartoons anymore since there's always Netflix or You Tube.
MIA