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Calm Down a Bit
You already know that shows like PJ Masks and Bubble Guppies can energize your little ones. But what can you turn on when you need to dial it back a notch?
By Clara Johnson
Updated: Feb. 20, 2024
Originally Published: Aug. 26, 2022
Have you ever wondered why some children’s TV shows keep your kids calm and content while others send them into a frenzy? You can criticize “screen time” all you like, but sometimes both Mom and her child need a moment of peace. With an increasing number of parents working from home—and many also opting for homeschooling—spending extended time indoors together is becoming the norm. While some kids can entertain themselves, others require a bit more distraction. Enter the television or tablet.
What Does Being Calm Mean?
Calmness can look different in every family. For some, a peaceful evening might mean avoiding chaos, while for others, it could be a night of laughter and playful noise. Dr. Amy Fisher, a well-respected child psychologist and co-founder of a children’s mental health platform, offers a more defined perspective: “Being calm means handling stressors, coping with challenges, and managing emotions, especially those overwhelming feelings.”
Aiding Kids in Emotion Regulation
An essential part of helping your child remain calm involves teaching them to recognize and manage their emotions. “Children often need guidance to ‘calm down’ when faced with strong feelings,” Dr. Fisher explains. “Parents can help their children develop emotional awareness and the ability to cope with their feelings.” To achieve this, choosing TV shows that focus on emotion recognition and management can be beneficial. Shows that validate feelings without overwhelming them will foster a child’s emotional growth.
Is It Acceptable to Use Television as a Calming Tool?
Though some parents might hesitate to use screen time to soothe a child, research supports its effectiveness. You may have noticed this in your own experience—sometimes, a show can provide a necessary distraction when a child is overly agitated. However, it’s important to continue discussing emotions with them afterward. “Using screen time to help a child calm down is completely appropriate,” says Dr. Fisher. “However, it’s not advisable to use TV as a sleep aid.”
Selecting the Right Calming Shows
Finding the perfect calming show depends largely on your child’s personality. Dr. Fisher shares some advice: “Avoid shows that are noisy and filled with rapid action; instead, look for those that engage your child in peaceful and gentle activities.”
Examples of Calming Kids’ TV Shows
Here’s a list of shows that can capture your child’s attention without inciting chaos:
- CoComelon
- Blippi
- Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood
- Elinor Wonders Why
- Lily’s Driftwood Bay
Additional Calming Shows:
- Dot
- Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom
- Curious George
- Sesame Street
- Bluey
- Hilda
- Peppa Pig
- Ada Twist, Scientist
- Sarah & Duck
- Clifford The Big Red Dog
- Jessy and Nessy
- Tumble Leaf
- Numberblocks
- Super Why!
- Doc McStuffins
- Dinosaur Train
- Madeline
- Storybots
- Puffin Rock
- Care Bears
- Clangers
Remember, it’s crucial to ensure that the shows you select are developmentally appropriate. “The real distinction lies between suitable shows and those designed merely to market products to children,” Dr. Fisher notes.
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Summary
In summary, finding calming TV shows for your children can provide both you and them a moment of respite. By selecting programs that promote emotional awareness and are developmentally appropriate, you can help your kids unwind while also fostering their emotional growth.
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