Updated: Feb. 23, 2016
Originally Published: Sep. 9, 2015
With each passing day, our schedules seem to get busier, filled with responsibilities and desires, leaving us with less quality time than we had before our daughter was even a thought. As she matures, it often feels like she’s drifting away from us, navigating her own world. Yet, amidst the debates about clothes, food, and schoolwork, we treasure the time we share with our teenage daughter and feel a twinge of sadness for the moments that will inevitably turn into phone calls and family gatherings.
Fortunately, we have our evening wind-down routine. Once her little brother is tucked into bed and the day’s tasks are behind us, our teenage daughter joins us on the couch for a cozy Netflix session. This binge-watching time is a safe space where we can connect, indulge in desserts, discuss our favorite shows, and sometimes even share a cuddle if she allows it.
A hot topic among parents in carpool lines is often, “What are your kids watching?” I tend to stay quiet, as tastes vary widely. For instance, my daughter enjoys The Amazing Race but isn’t fond of most reality shows. She appreciates clever comedies but steers clear of relationship-focused series. Thankfully, she has outgrown the Disney and Nickelodeon phase filled with dramatic plots and over-the-top acting. I hope I’m not stepping on any toes here with that opinion, but if you’re reading this, you might share my sentiment.
Here’s what’s currently on our watchlist—shows that we all love, including our teenager:
- Doctor Who
As a passionate sci-fi enthusiast, I adore everything related to Douglas Adams and Steven Moffat. While my daughter didn’t quite get into Adams’s Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy yet (there’s still hope!), we’ve successfully hooked her on Doctor Who, where both have contributed as head writers. She revels in the quirky plots, witty banter, literary nods, and the philosophical dilemmas of time travel. Plus, her first Doctor was the charming David Tennant, and there’s minimal romance. Score one for mom! - Gilmore Girls
This charming series about a quick-witted mother-daughter duo has struck a chord with us. I’ve noticed that our conversations have become even more engaging since we started watching it together. We’re only on season two, but we’re already captivated by the quirky town and its endearing residents, where even the troublemakers have good hearts. - 30 Rock
Another gem featuring a strong female lead, 30 Rock offers a delightful escape with its brilliant cast and clever storylines. It’s the perfect light-hearted option, particularly after a suspenseful Doctor Who episode! - How I Met Your Mother
I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly our daughter embraced this show about young professionals in NYC. My partner knew she would enjoy it, as she was drawn to its sharp writing, intricate plots, and well-developed characters. We now share inside jokes about the blue French horn and the infamous pineapple. - The Big Bang Theory
While this may raise eyebrows, we stand by our love for this show. Sure, it touches on adult themes, but it also smartly weaves in discussions about science, making it accessible and entertaining. I appreciate that it celebrates the quirky and awkward, which is a great lesson for a teen entering high school. - Parenthood
This heartfelt family drama tackles a range of real-life issues like race, autism, and family dynamics. It sparks meaningful conversations about how we interact with others and what we might do differently in various situations. When faced with parenting challenges, I often find myself wondering, “What would Adam Braverman do?” - Modern Family
Offering a refreshing perspective on family life, Modern Family combines humor with relatable characters in entertaining scenarios. This is one of the few shows we watch before the little one heads off to bed, and it does a fantastic job of portraying diverse family structures.
We’re nearing the end of these series and are on the lookout for new recommendations! What shows do you enjoy watching with your older kids?
For more insights on family dynamics, check out our other blog posts at Home Insemination Kit. And if you’re interested in fertility resources, be sure to visit Make A Mom and Healthline for helpful information on pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary:
Finding time to bond with our teenage daughter can be challenging, but our Netflix binge-watching sessions have become a cherished routine. We enjoy shows like Doctor Who, Gilmore Girls, and Parenthood, which spark conversation and foster connection. As we finish our current favorites, we’re eager to discover new shows to enjoy together.