Do you ever find a show can tackle a difficult topic, better than you can explain it to a child?
From tackling peer pressure to learning to achieve five whole minutes without a cell phone in hand, addressing tough topics with your kids head-on can sometimes be a challenge. Sometimes real-life examples portrayed in a television show or film are better understood than by a parent explaining with their words.
Netflix has recommended some helpful family-friendly shows that explores a range of topics that your kids may be facing, with humour and heart. No matter what the parenting issue, chances are there’s a show and episode that can kick start a dialogue around the topic just by watching it together.
Here are some family friendly shows tackling issues on Netflix.
For Little Kids
Sibling Rivalry
Watch Ep. S1E1: Babee’s Room
Buzzabee and Rubee compete over who Babee (their new sibling) gets to room with. Mom and dad must explain to Buzzabee and Rubee that Babee needs to grow up before she can share a room.
Responsibility
Watch Ep. S1E1: Puppies & Guppies/Sorry We’re Closed Today
Larry and Laura Carrot want to adopt puppies, but quickly learn it takes responsibility in order to watch over and care for a pet of their own.
Following the Rules
Watch Ep. S1E6: Stormy Weather/ Baba’s Adventure/ Rock Music
Mama tells Oona and Baba to stay close with a storm approaching. After ignoring her advice, Oona and Baba get stuck in a seagull nest during the heavy thunderstorms.
For Big Kids
Self-Love
Watch Ep. S1E13: Star
After Dulcinea feels like no one in the group needs her help, she tries to use a newly-discovered wishing star to show her worth — but fails — showing her that her presence alone has lit up her friends’ lives all along.
Teamwork
Watch Ep. S1E3: Smart is the New Cool
After McKeyla insists she works better alone, she learns that four is better than one when her friends jump in to help her rescue the Prince from a botched space mission.
Peer Pressure
Watch Ep. S1E6: The Legend of El Explosivo
After getting grounded for sneaking off to Bobby Popko’s house, Jackson realizes he needs to stand up for what he knows is right and not give in to please his friend.
For Teens:
Actions Have Consequences
Watch Ep. S1E1&2: Pilot & Consequently
Brandon finds himself in a dangerous situation when trying to help Callie (his new foster sister) find her brother — learning that his actions can result in unexpected consequences.
Self-Improvement
Watch Ep. S1E4: Kimmy Goes to the Doctor!
Kimmy quickly realizes that she can’t fix her problems by simply “Buhbreezing” them away — real change comes from the inside.
Body Image
Watch Ep. S1E16: Home
What are some memorable show episodes that deal with an important topic kids should watch?