I know many of you are thinking TV for toddlers? What about no screentime? If you are able to get through your day without any form of screentime that is fantastic, well done. But many parents resort to screentime in order to get things done around the house, or use as a distraction during changing time or in our case a distraction during the many medical assessments and bloodwork we needed to get done for our daughter's duplex kidney condition. Whether you choose to use screentime or not, there is no judgement on this page. This is a safe space for all. That being said if you do use screentime, here are some of our favorite shows for toddlers that are great building their skills, knowledge and development.
5 Educational Shows for Toddlers
1. Ms. Rachel
"Ms. Rachel" on YouTube is who we call our daughter's third mother. I swear the woman is magical in every sense of the word. She has gotten us through so many tough experiences from bloodwork to scary x-rays to changing a toddler who has mastered the crocodile roll. She teaches how to regulate feelings and emotions, models milestones, expressions, and gestures and teaches toddlers how to form and say words. Her videos are the closest you will find to the video call visualization which is the only form of screentime the CDC says is okay for ages 0-1. I attribute many of my daughter's developmental achievements to "Ms. Rachel," all from speaking new words to learning how to wave when she was only 9 months. "Ms. Rachel" also has a diverse cast that will show your child how to be accepting of others despite their differences.
(Source: Parents.com)
2. Blippi and Meekah
Blippi and Meekah have just begun to be on our daughter's list of favorites for shows. This show follows Blippi and/or Meekah as they explore different museums, playgrounds, zoos and many more places throughout the United States. They help children learn about the world in a fun way. They encourage vocabulary building, learning numbers, colors and more. This show also has fun songs such as "I'm an Excavator" for children to sing along with.
(Source: Amazon.com)
3. Sesame Street
Sesame Street has been a favorite of ours since we were kids, but my daughter is yet to be a fan. Still this timeless classic needs a place on this list because even though it has yet to captivate my daughter, it may be on the top of your child's list! This show introduces letters, numbers, and basic problem-solving skills through lovable characters like Elmo, Big Bird, and Cookie Monster. It promotes inclusivity, diversity, and social awareness, making it an excellent choice for early childhood education.
(Source: PBS Kids)
4. Bluey
Bluey has quickly become an adult favorite in our house. This animated show follows the adventures of an Australian Blue Heeler puppy and her family. My daughter especially loves the introduction and will dance along with the characters as they are introduced to the audience. She will also run and grab her little Bingo plushie when we turn it on. But this show does more than illicit adorable moments from our toddler; "Bluey" emphasizes imaginative play, problem solving and social emotional learning. With relatable storylines and relatable characters, "Bluey" teaches valuable life lessons while entertaining both young and adult viewers.
(Source: Disney Plus)
5. Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood
Based on the beloved characters from Mr. Roger's neighborhood, "Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood" offer valuable lessons in social-emotional learning. Each episode focuses on essential life skills like empathy, sharing, and managing emotions. Through catchy songs and relatable scenarios, toddlers learn how to navigate the world around them and their big feelings within themselves.
(Source: IMBD )
Conclusion
Whether you are using screentime to tame a toddler during toddler time, get some chores around the house, or getting through some difficult times at the doctor, it is important to choose shows that are educational and help develop crucial and life-long skills such as developing speech, regulating emotions, empathy, and problem-solving skills. These five options are a perfect blend of entertaining and learning. If you have any shows to add to the list feel free to leave them in the comments! We are always open to new ideas.
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