Toddler screen time is a controversial topic. However, I’m not here to tell you my opinion on the amount of television toddlers should watch. Instead, I’m here to share the least annoying tv shows for toddlers (because I know many of you can’t stand to listen to Cocomelon for one more minute).
The Least Annoying TV Shows for Toddlers
The first time my toddler became interested in a television show for more than 10 seconds I ran to the bathroom alone. It was glorious – sitting on a toilet by myself without a 18 month old staring at me.
Television is a well-thought choice in our home for both me and my children. In the beginning, I try to choose a t.v. program that has a purpose – fun songs, language development, interactive storyline, educational message, etc. However, we all know little kids have opinions and preferences of their own. To compensate for my lack of full control, I introduce shows I don’t mind watching or hearing in the background. This system doesn’t always work, but I do believe my toddler eventually liked Miss Rachel because I kept putting her on.
WARNING: THIS CAN BACKFIRE.
Big siblings, grandparents, babysitters, and even Dad can disrupt the system when it comes to choosing the right television show for your toddler. I lost count of the times I came home to find my toddler not just watching an overstimulating t.v. show, but LOVING the overstimulating t.v. show. All it takes it one viewing of Little Angel or a video of a middle aged man and his purple puppet singing about monkey poop on Kids YouTube for a toddler to become obsessed.
Why Do I Prefer Low-Stimulating Screen Time for Toddlers?
What does a two year old need? Aside from these two year old must haves, toddlers need to be able to thrive and flourish in a safe way. Sometimes screen time is a need in my home so I can clean/cook/wind down with my toddler present.
When it comes to toddler screen time, I prefer low-stimulating shows. Don’t get me wrong – I don’t mind musical television shows that teach my toddler the songs she sings to her baby dolls. However, I do mind the way she acts after watching the shows, especially when viewed on a tablet. There is a connection between my toddler’s mood and the type of television program she watches. Overstimulating shows can make her cranky, wild, and irritable. Low-stimulating shows can make her calm, cooperative, and stimulated in a positive way.
Choosing low-stimulating TV shows for toddlers can help create a calming environment while still entertaining them. If you allow screen time for your toddler, choose programs with slower-paced narratives, gentle music, and simple storylines. Shows like “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood,” which uses songs to teach life concepts and emotional understanding, or “Bluey,” which offers relatable family interactions and inspires imagination, are excellent choices. These programs tend to have soothing colors and prioritize educational content, making them ideal for young minds.
Toddler T.V. Shows That Aren’t Annoying
After consulting my fellow toddler parents, I compiled a list of the Least Annoying TV Shows for Toddlers. Anything that is low-stimulating is not annoying in my parenting book. Here are some of the best low-stimulating T.V. shows for toddlers.
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