3 Things to Look for in Television Programs for Toddlers

In today’s day and age, television is unavoidable. Many people criticize the parents who allow their child access to screens, but some carefully chosen programs for toddlers can actually help their development and education! The question I hope to help you answer today is, “what makes a good program for my toddler?”

3 Things Television Does Right

Active Engagement

Programs for children should prompt children to think critically, use their imagination, and pique their curiosity. Make sure the show is not focused on a passive audience. Many programs will pause and ask the audience questions directly! This is a great thing to look for in a program as it helps keep children focused and helps them learn communication skills. Look for shows that involve sign language to help them practice! Try shows like; Blue’s Clues, Bubble Guppies, Dora the Explorer, and Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood!

Educational Subjects

We all want our children to start learning as early as possible. Most children’s programs are educational in some way or another, but you may want to focus on programs that depict subjects your kids will later learn in school. Shows that focus on science, math, and reading help to provide a foundational understanding of the subjects, making it easier for your child to learn further once they’ve begun their education. Here’s a list of options to look at!

Focus on Child’s Interests

This one is simple. From the vast array of television programs, let your child watch the ones that are interesting to them! There’s no point in active engagement if your child is not interested in the show in the first place. For example; If your child loves animals, try Wild Kratts or Zaboomafo! They’ll learn about so many different animals, their habitats, and conservation efforts to save the animals. Most programs show and teach children about certain things they may not get a chance to see in real life, so exposing them to these programs allows them to understand the world and find an interest that is not limited to what’s immediately available.

Important Things to Know about Toddler TV

You can have too much of a good thing. For children aged 18 months – 5 years old, it is recommended that their screen time is limited to about 1 hour a day and not before bed time.

Television is not a replacement for you! Be sure to watch with your child to make sure you are aware of what they are learning. The TV should not become a babysitter.

You are still the teacher. You may need to help them apply what they’ve learned to the real world. Try asking questions or reading about similar subjects! Although it can be a useful tool, television is not a replacement for other educational and social stimuli.

Repetition is helpful. That show they want to watch over and over again is helping them learn how to memorize! What’s more; children are more likely to learn from characters they are more familiar with. Like anything else, consistency is key!