Watching Cartoons With My Child
How
Made Me a Better Parent by Liz Arrington
’m cuddled up on the couch with my six-yearold son to watch a new show that I’ve heard a lot of friends talking about. Classical music plays as the first scene opens to a family of cartoon dogs playing together in their living room. The dad is pretending to play piano, and then the bongos, on his two daughters while they squeal with laughter. What happens next can only be described as absolutely delightful mayhem. Bluey- the big sister- is not sharing with her little sister, causing conflict and frustration during the game. Eventually the sisters work out their conflict, ending the episode sitting contentedly together while Dad remains fully committed to his role in their silly game. It’s hilarious, meaningful, musical, playful, and magical all at once. We are immediately hooked.
Through Bluey, my kids and I were able to reconnect through the power of play. I found myself drawing inspiration from the episodes and was served with many reminders to be more aware of my tone of voice, my willingness to slow down and connect, and just generally enjoy more of the time I spend with my kids.
Over the course of our long summer break, my family has watched every episode of this Australian children’s show- appropriately named, Bluey. Even my teenager secretly admits that he likes it. Ever since my little one and I watched that first episode
As Bluey is gaining popularity in the US, reviewers and early childhood professionals alike are pointing out the significance of this show for today’s young families. It really seems to capture the essence of modern parenting.
I
18 September | October 2021
together, he frequently climbs into my lap and starts singing the tune that is played in that first scene. Without speaking, I understand what I’m meant to do, and I begin vigorously “playing” the tune out on his back, like a wiggly little keyboard. This show has brought the game of “Keepy-Uppy” into our house, a game called “Octopus”, as well as countless other small ways of adding more playful interactions into our daily life.
