"I put Johnny's snowsuit on in front of the TV. It's the only way I can get him ready without shrieking."
Dead silence. The other moms look at each other.
"You let Johnny watch TV?"
"Yup."
One by one, each mommy admits to letting her kid watch TV. Not a lot, and only certain programs, but TV nonetheless. This is one of the last taboos--we can talk about episiotomies, hemorrhoids, and vomiting, but kids watching TV? What kind of a mommy would let her kid do that?
I do. And my son is just fine: a healthy, active, well-behaved little toddler. I not only let my son watch TV, but I think kids' shows are an important part of my education as a parent. The producers of television shows for young children put a lot of research into their product, research that parents can use to communicate, play, and talk with their toddlers. Here are some of my favourite television lessons.
Respect your child's achievements
Blue's Clues is my favourite kids' show, partly because it has taught me how to speak to my child. Listen to the way Steve speaks to the children. He looks directly at the camera, and is never condescending. He thanks them for their help, and repeatedly says things like "Good counting!" or "You were a really big help today." His words and tone are an excellent way to encourage and praise a child.
Steve's way of speaking to children made me think from my son's point of view. At 14 months, every time Malcolm stands on his own, puts a block in a bucket, or eats his yogurt with a spoon, he has accomplished an important and difficult task. I make sure to recognize these little achievements that mean so much to him.
The toddler's classroom is everywhere
In the first three years, every experience helps to shape a child's brain, including routine activities around the house. Blue's Clues takes place throughout Steve's house and backyard--he uses everyday things as learning tools. Blue's Clues also gives practical ideas for activities and games to play with household items. Blue has helped make a water xylophone (with jars filled with various levels of water), act out stories, make a sock puppet, and pack a picnic lunch. These are all activities you can do at home with your toddler.
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