Just 5 Things… Kids’ TV Shows

I’m going to admit that these top 5 lists I do every so often are usually on Fridays. And it’s usually because I’m kinda tired and want to do a quick and easy post. And then hundreds of words later, I realize nothing is quick for me when it comes to writing.

Today’s post is actually inspired by a random tweet from this week. My lovely son Evan decided that he wanted to watch “The Backyardigans” on Netflix. Fine with me. I was getting kind of tired of the bad animation and theme song from “Inspector Gadget.”

(Remember that show? Yeah, my son LOVES it. And he loves the free iPad game as well. That’s what really started the whole obsession.)

Back to my tweet. It started like this:

All of the sudden, I had several replies along the lines of, “Why? I love that show!” And I had a realization (not a new one but a realization nonetheless).

These kids TV shows polarize moms. Kids have their opinions. But as moms, we have very strong opinions about which shows we like. And we like to share those opinion.

Ever talk about “Max & Ruby” with another mom? Did you instantly bond over your mutual loathing of the show? I even confessed to my son that I can’t stand that show. And yet he still watched it. I secretly think it was to torture me. Thank God, we’ve moved on.

I realized, though, that there are many shows that I like to watch. I honestly enjoy sitting down to watch them. So without further adieu, these are a MOM’S opinion about the top 5 kids’ TV shows.

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1. Phineas and Ferb

Don’t you dare disagree with me on this one. I love this show. I’m obsessed with this show. I think I’ve seen every single episode of this show. Maybe because I’m a science nerd at heart. I love it because it funny and respectful without being snarky.

2. Dinosaur Train

What is it about this show? I just love it. It teaches about dinosaurs, especially with the transitions from Dr. Scott, the paleontologist. But really? It’s a show that celebrates diversity and embraces our differences. And they’re not afraid to talk about poop.

3. Little Einsteins

I’m sorry to say at 4 years old, my son has grown mostly tired of this show. That’s okay. He likes “Jake and the Neverland Pirates,” which is pretty much the exact same show but without the art and music. Here’s the thing. I like the art and music. And I’m a fan of accidental learning. We’ve seen artwork and heard music and my son lights up with recognition. How do you like that? He’s a fan of classical music. Score in my book.

4. The Cat in the Hat Knows A Lot About That!

This isn’t to be mistaken for the cartoon or live action versions that have popped up over the years. This is a new cartoon series where the cat is voiced by Martin Short. I’ve never really been a fan of his but I think he’s much better off camera. His voice is actually suited for the cat. But what I love about the show (science nerd alert!) is how is teaches about science and animal behavior in ways that are totally appealing to kids. Again, it comes back to accidental learning.

5. Good Luck Charlie

Don’t judge. Okay, I guess you can judge. I know I’m not the only one that likes these pre-teen shows on Disney. Sometimes it seems like this show plays 24/7 on the Disney channel. Maybe it’s why I watched is so many times before I gave in and admitted to myself that I really liked it. My 4 year old, surprisingly, likes it too. It’s a good family show. And honestly, we all laugh out loud at the silliness.

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What I figured out from creating this list is something you probably already know. Moms like kids’ shows. I know I like the learning and the entertaining. And no annoying music is a plus too (sorry, The Backyardigans fan!)

Since I know that parents have very strong opinions on the shows they their kids like to watch, tell me your faves. Maybe I will judge you harshly or maybe you’ll introduce me to a whole new world of goodness.