Kids programming is helpful for reinforcing good habits, learning about good socialization skills, and even practicing things like counting and talking. Some children’s programming is mostly entertainment, but there are a few shows that are as educational as they are fun to watch.
In this post we’ll share a few of them.
Songs For Littles
One such show that has proven to be particularly valuable for young children is “Songs for Littles.” This YouTube channel provides kids with the opportunity to sing along with catchy songs that help them learn essential language and social skills.
One of the primary ways that “Songs for Littles” benefits kids is by helping them to develop proper enunciation and speech. The show’s creators use a range of catchy songs to reinforce important language skills, such as how to say specific words clearly and when to say them.
“Songs for Littles” can also help kids to learn how to interact with others. The show features a wide range of songs that teach kids about social skills, such as taking turns, sharing, and expressing emotions.
By learning to sing along with the songs, kids can also develop their musical skills, such as rhythm and pitch, which can help to lay the foundation for future musical interests and talents.
The show’s upbeat and energetic songs can contribute to a positive mood in kids, and it builds their confidence and self-esteem.
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood
This show bears some similarities to the classic Mr. Rogers show, both in its tone and even in some of the characters (Trolly, for example).
Each episode’s stories were driven by extensive input from early learning specialists, and aims to teach a valuable lesson to build confidence in social situations and improve empathy.
Parents have commented positively about their children watching the show, saying things like:
- “I love the way it teaches kids to cope with their emotions and with everyday challenges… This show really meets little ones where they are at in an emotionally intelligent way.”
- “There are so many great life lessons for kids, and every episode has a song that reinforces the lesson.”
- “This a great first show for a little one. Great lessons about cleaning up, using your words to express yourself.”
Peg + Cat
This animated show is about a young girl who solves math problems with her cat. Each episode explores shapes, patterns, and builds fundamental skills needed for a solid grasp of math.
In fact, a study from a few years back observed over 200 4-year olds, and found that kids who watched this show and employed its games showed improvement in key math skills.
Peg + Cat is also one with a lot of positive messaging. The puzzles and games Peg solves with your children are meant to empower them and help them believe in their abilities. The activities are interactive, so your children can participate in them and deepen their learning experience.
Benefits of Positive Kids Shows For Development, Supported By Studies
- A study published in the Journal of Children and Media found that watching educational television shows is associated with higher academic performance, particularly in the areas of literacy and mathematics. Anderson, D. R., & Subrahmanyam, K. (2017). Educational television and academic achievement in early childhood. Journal of Children and Media, 11(1), 4-14.
- A study published in the Journal of Experimental Child Psychology found that watching prosocial television shows can improve young children’s social behavior and emotional competence. Rasmussen, E. E., & Aricak, O. T. (2014). Effects of prosocial television on children’s social interactions in a naturalistic setting. Journal of Experimental Child Psychology, 127, 91-108.
- A study published in the Journal of Creative Behavior found that watching shows that promote creativity can enhance a child’s divergent thinking skills, which are important for problem-solving and innovation. Buijs, L., & Admiraal, W. (2017). Effects of a creative television program on children’s divergent thinking. Journal of Creative Behavior, 51(2), 146-159.
- A study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry found that watching television programs that promote emotional intelligence can improve children’s emotional regulation skills and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Fink, E., & Russell, J. A. (2019). Viewing emotional television programs promotes emotional regulation in young children. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 60(1), 30-39.
- A study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology found that watching educational television shows can improve children’s self-esteem and academic confidence, particularly for children from low-income families. Schmidt, M. E., & Vandewater, E. A. (2008). Media and attention, cognition, and school achievement. Journal of Educational Psychology, 100(4), 720-736.
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