As parents we make certain sacrifices for our children. The list of "better for them than mommy" is endless and leads to self-sacrifice of money, time, careers, independence and sometimes, sanity.
So for anyone who has every had the misfortune of NickJr. on constant repeat throughout the day, i.e. near every parent on earth, here are some alternate shows to consider that may have both you and your child laughing together.
The Amazing Race
It seems an odd choice but as far as family-friendly programs go, it can't be beat. A race around the world with contestants of varying lifestyles, relationships and dynamics who experience world culture.
While there are some "fights" they are, at most, at a PG level of drama, and the contestants' necessity for cooperation in the end, is a nice coda to whatever aggravations they experience along the way.
Although smaller children may miss the more nuanced social interactions, they love the "racing" premise. The challenges presented in the show always highlight the varied countries the contestants are in, so while your child is only laughing at the improbability of cheese-making, they are also getting a subtle undertext of a world they are not regularly exposed to.
Malcolm In The Middle
While a little over-the-top at times to add to comedic affect, this dysfunctional family story always seem to maintain a slightly kooky, but realistic view of family life that most kids, and adults, find hilarious.
Not only does it show the fallacies and follies of the four brothers in the family , but also of the parents themselves. Kids love to see that grown-ups can act childish, weird and silly. It levels the playing field and is comforting on some level to see that everything doesn't have to be perfect, not even in the magical world of television.
While some situations in the comedy are more "tweeny" than toddler-sized, kids of all ages usually get a kick out of shenanigans in general, a plot device that the show uses brillantly.
The Simpsons
Officially the longest running sitcom in history, this animated show can be a welcome break for adults who have had one to many fake puppets around.
There are times when The Simpsons goes above what could be deemed appropriate; some episodes do cater to a more mature audience by topic matter. Ironically, there are other times when the show can almost become downright preachy, extolling Christian values that some would feel uncomfortable with.
The best bet is to grab an earlier season and monitor what episodes you feel is appropriate for you child. There are many that have hilarious story-lines that won't leave you dying of saccharine or shielding the eyes.
Your best guideline in any entertainment for yourself and more importantly, your children, is to make choices as you see fit.
If you think it has the potential to offend or bring up off-limit topics, then by all means censor and protect.
Just keep in mind that thirty minutes of shared sanity can go a long way towards defeating the migraine-like drill of an incessant "Backpack!Backpack!" and might even bring your family closer.
