Screen time.

We are supposed to limit it, monitor it, regulate it, and so on.

But is it always that bad for our kids to watch TV? To have a favorite show? And more importantly is it that bad for us to allow it because sometimes you really need a solid distraction to keep the rest of life going?

I will never forget when my husband and I first wanted to find a show for P to watch and we had no idea where to start. What were kids watching? Was it the same shows we watched or our younger siblings at least?

Before P we never had any reason to watch any kids shows so basically we were lost and didn’t know where to start.

So here’s our favs. to share with you and make your search a little easier. Then go take the 30 minutes while they watch to do something for you.

• Daniel Tiger; Ok who loved Mr. Rogers growing up? Then you will love Daniel as the shows characters are based off of Mr. Rogers. Parents, the best part about this show are the songs. Yes they will sometimes drive you crazy. They will be stuck in your head. But they will be so helpful in teaching and reminding your kids of basic life lessons such as trying new foods and taking turns.
• Sesame Street; Let’s admit it, it’s a classic. Teaching kids about friendship, community, themselves and the list goes on and on. They recently had an episode about social distancing and it was so helpful in explaining to children some of the events in the world right now with characters that they just love.
• Blue’s Clues; It’s back! In case you didn’t know it was out several years ago, was a fav. of many and now it is back. The way they engage with children in having them help solve mysteries and talking to them not only gets kids involved but help their critical thinking skills too.
• Muppet Babies; Another one that was around for many of our childhoods. The pretend or make believe play, problem solving, and focus on social interactions, get the little one’s imaginations going. Plus all of the characters are super cute and have their own unique personality traits.
• Bubble Guppies; cute, catchy songs, with each episode focusing on topics such as social interactions, feelings and more.
• Paw Patrol; like other children’s shows on Nick they highlight at the beginning of each episode what children can gain from watching it such as social and emotional development, or problem solving skills. Similar to other fav. shows the characters each have their own unique personalities and traits that kids love and soon develop their favorites.
• Vampirina; friendship, acceptance, kindness, differences, just some of the qualities this show touches on. They also have a girl band with great catchy songs to rock out to.
• Puppy Dog Pals; Do I need to say anything more after puppies? Follow along as they go on adventures with their animal friends often focused on helping others.
• Doc McStuffins; A girl who pretends to be a Dr. with her stuffed animals that come to life, too cute right? Teaches life lessons about overcoming fears, helping, kindness, and caring. Don’t be surprised if your little one plays animal hospital right after.
• Mickey Mouse Club House; Mickey and his friends are another classic that has updated through the years to be an interactive and educational show for young kids. They will enjoy Mickey talking to them to help him and his pals solve problems and mysteries, helping build on your little one’s critical thinking and problem solving skills.