One of the few Nickelodeon shows that doesn't make this Mom want to rip my flat screen off the wall, maybe it's the universal love of mermaids that make this Nicktoon so enjoyable. Whatever it is, Bubble Guppies is just cute enough to be endearing without overdoing it.
(Photo: Nick, Jr.)
Doc McStuffins definitely deserves the top spot. This adorable little doctor fixes the toys in her clinic with the help of her magic stethoscope. She has a working mom, a stay-at-home dad, and an adorable little brother. Even better, my sister and can sing her theme song by heart. And we actually enjoy it. The Doc is in!
(Photo: Disney)
Wild Kratts is a super-close second place for educational television. The Kratt brothers have been involved in animal television for decades. And their newest animated series, with its awesomely intelligent female sidekicks, is the best they've ever done. Because of the Wild Kratts, my daughter picks up every piece of trash she sees on the ground and throws it away. I cannot adequately repay them for that.
(Photo: PBS Kids)
One of the few Nickelodeon shows that doesn't make this Mom want to rip my flat screen off the wall, maybe it's the universal love of mermaids that make this Nicktoon so enjoyable. Whatever it is, Bubble Guppies is just cute enough to be endearing without overdoing it.
(Photo: Nick, Jr.)
The revamp of everyone's favorite children's classic isn't trying to be Mister Roger's. It's creating a new show with the same feel, and the same calm, kind tone. One of the most relaxing new shows you can watch with your kids.
(Photo: PBS Kids)
Get ready to hear a lot more about Jake, who is getting a huge products push and some increased exposure on the Disney line-up. In the vein of Dora and Diego but with so much less obnoxious yelling.
(Photo: Disney)_
If you can't find a decent cartoon to watch, skip the children's programming all together. Head over to Animal Planet and check out a little Dogs 101 or River Monsters. (Hint: The monster is a catfish.) Your kids will feel all grown-up and they'll be getting some real information. Big Cats Week is a must-see.
(Photo: Animal Planet)
The original non-obnoxious educational show! Disney has always known how to captivate parents and kids alike. They do a great job with Mickey and his friends. Classic characters that teach simple lessons to little ones. If it's ain't broke...
(Photo: Disney)
An up and coming PBS favorite, Dinosaur Train does an amazing job of appealing to both boys and girls. It has plenty of important social lessons, along with some science thrown in. They show taught my daughter how to use "hypothesis" correctly in a sentence. Talk about an impressive party trick!
(Photo: PBS Kids)
Another cartoon alternative, National Geographic offers some wonderful programs that will really teach children. Explorer is its longest running series and it takes kids to every corner of the globe. Give your kids a chance to fall in love with real-life amazing facts and adventures, instead of just the make believe stuff.
Sofia got off to a rocky start with that whole, "Is she or isn't she Hispanic" controversy. (By the way, nothing on the show indicates that she is.) That being said, it's a sweet, enjoyable show for little girls who aren't afraid to be different. From joining the Princes' sports teams to making friends with trolls, Sofia is fearless, kind and confident. All of the things we hope our daughters will be.
(Photo: Disney)
