In Praise of Children’s Television

Little Miss dancing with Makka Pakka, Summer 2009

Last year, in the late Spring, we dipped our feet into the waters of Cbeebies.  Little Miss was fascinated by “In the Night Garden” initially.  Thank goodness, we’ve moved on from ITNG (as it’s known in parent circles) but I would like to take up residence on my Parenting Plinth.  My platform:  In Praise of Children’s Television!

For those of you who don’t know (or don’t live in the UK) the BBC has a Children’s Channel devoted entirely to “toddler appropriate” children’s programming.  Cbeebies is on from 6am to 7pm and has nothing but educational, entertaining programmes (and to many parents, somewhat irritating).  In addition to the variety of programmes which last anywhere from 10-30 minutes, there are lovely presenters who introduce the next programme and play some little games and generally goof around for a few minutes before the next show.  There are also musical “videos” for each of the four seasons.  Summer is our favourite…it’s back now!  Have a look…I dare you to not jump up & do the dance.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yI-kRu6KSDE[/youtube]

Little Miss will be 2 years old on Thursday.  I would like to thank Cbeebies for giving Little Miss a great education so far.  We have Cbeebies on at intervals throughout the day and it’s made a great difference in Little Miss’ vocabulary and general comprehension.  She can count to 10 (sometimes misses a number or two, mind), she knows her colours and says phrases and words like:

• “Whatever shall we do?”
• “That’s a great idea!”
• “See you again soon, I’m sure.”
• “Show me your groovy moves!”
• “That’s amazing!”
• “Delicious” “Gorgeous”
• “You’re bananas” (courtesy of Milkshake’s “Igam Ogam”)

Of course, not all of these are directly attributed to Cbeebies or other children’s shows and we don’t have Cbeebies on ALL DAY but I really believe that Little Miss’ vocabulary and understanding has been dramatically improved thanks to some of these children’s programmes.  She’s learned some Makaton sign language thanks to “Something’s Special” Justin, she’s learned a few craft ideas from “Mister Maker”, she’s learned how to break an egg & mix it up thanks to “I Can Cook” Katy, and she’s learned a TON of things from “Show Me Show Me” Chris and Pui.

Little Miss and I spend the entire day together.  I’ve always been very verbal with her from the day she was born and have encouraged her to speak and repeat words that I say.  I taught her a mixture of signs to aid her communication (she still uses the sign for please when she says it) and have always insisted on manners (please, thank you, pardon) when speaking.  We’re now working on Right and Left with body parts…a tricky one that!

I’m so pleased that Little Miss has picked up so many useful and educational things from Cbeebies and would like to categorically state that CHILDREN’S TELEVISION IS NOT THE DEVIL!!!  Of course, everyone has their opinion and many parents choose to limit and/or prohibit their child from watching television.  I certainly respect other’s rights to NOT watch telly but in our family we are very appreciative of the learning that Children’s Television has brought to our Little Miss.  I remember watching “Sesame Street” growing up.  It helped me to learn numbers and letters and how to count in Spanish and even sign some words and phrases in American Sign Language (I still remember “WET PAINT”).

As long as it doesn’t become the only form of interaction your child has, I see no problem with watching something like Cbeebies to expand your child’s horizons.  We are most definitely in praise of children’s television.  So, thank you, Cbeebies, for opening a few doors in our daughter’s mind and allowing in some brilliant education.  And if you can possibly fast track some toy merchandise for “Everything’s Rosie” we would REALLY appreciate it!

Cbeebies "Everything's Rosie"