Things I Learn From Watching PBS Kids

[wlotus]

I think I have figured out why I enjoy watching educational children's programming so much, specifically programs geared for children in preschool through second grade: the lessons presented to that age group are simple and generally do not involve extended angst or complicated communication snafus. (Programming geared towards older children often revolves around those things, like "Arthur" or "Martha Speaks". I don't watch those shows as much, as I have enough angst in my real life. That may be why I don't enjoy most television programming geared towards adults, too!) And the lessons about feelings are things that I did not learn in the environment I was originally planted in, so the reminders are helpful.

Things I Learn From Watching PBS Kids

• Sometimes people who love each other disagree, but that doesn't mean they stop loving each other.
• Clean up your messes as you make them, so there will be less work to do later.
• Using good manners makes things more fun for everyone.
• It's okay to be scared or shy.
• Try new things and go to new places; it's how you learn about your self and your world.
• Sometimes people are not ready to try new things, and that is okay.
• When you are feeling overwhelmed, stop and take a deep breath to calm yourself down before continuing.
• Ask lots and lots of questions.

Comments

[ruthiebgr8.livejournal.com]

I need to watch more PBS children's programming. I used to watch Mr Rogers even when the kids were napping or gone to Grandma's. He tended to soothe my emotional upheavals better than almost anything else. Think I need a dose of him soon, if I can figure out when he's on!

[wlotus.livejournal.com]

With the switch to digital, there is now a 24-hour PBS Kids station, along with regular PBS on a separate channel. That means if I time it right, I can watch my current favorite, "Franny's Feet" 3 times a day.

[queenlyzard.livejournal.com]

Yups. I also recommend Robert Fulghum's excellent book "Everything I need to Know I learned In Kindergarten." It's a wonderful mix of good humor and good philosophy.