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It's been a while since we've talked videos here on Steady Mom, and what videos could make a mom feel less guilty than "educational" videos for children?!
As I've written before, we do let our three young ones (currently 7, 6, and 5.5) view commercial-free DVDs and videos. They typically watch a total of one to 1.5 hours per day (not at one sitting!).
Although we allow viewing, I am highly, extremely selective about the programs I allow my children to watch, wanting it to be an uplifting activity in their lives--not a disturbing, obsessive one.
Most of the kids' programs meet my standards for them but don't interest me at all. Then there are a handful of videos that I love to watch with my children and have a hard time tearing myself away from, even when I'm supposed to be doing something productive.
Here are my favorite five educational videos for young children.
1. Signing Time
I love this slow-paced introductory series to American Sign Language. The songs are catchy and the tone of each episode is sweet and kind--I'm inspired by the mother and family who create this series. And I'm amazed that my slightly older kids still sit through these.
No video list could be complete without this classic. This was my absolute favorite show as a child, so I actually get goosebumps at being able to now watch it with my little people. Selected shows have been released on DVD and we also check these out from the library.
Every Saturday night in our home is Reading Rainbow night!
3. Treasury of 100 Storybook Classics
This series by Scholastic includes 100 book selections on 16 DVDs. They include several stories on each DVD, read aloud with slow-moving animation added.
Delightful!
I've mentioned this series in a previous post, and we are still fans of accompanying the little travelers on their journeys around the globe.
5. The Tales of Beatrix Potter (with Dancers of The Royal Ballet)
This DVD is one of the best for children I've seen in some time.
Several of Beatrix Potter's stories are included--there are no words, only classical music and dance are used to dramatize the story. So fun!
**I'm always on the lookout for more titles to add to our viewing list, so please share your favorites in the comments!**
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