PBS KIDS and PBS KIDS, Go! - The Most Educational Programming on Television
A new report released today by independent research and advocacy organization Children Now gives accolades to PBS KIDS® (PBS morning programming for preschoolers) and PBS KIDS GO! (afternoon programming for elementary school kids), stating that the shows are among the most education-rich offerings on television. This is great publicity for PBS children's programming. I think that many times the PBS programs do not get the credit they deserve. The shows are not as flashy as some of those on commercial TV, and they don't get near the amount of advertising dollars. However, as PBS states, they are part of a "carefully-selected schedule packed with engaging series designed to boost four key areas of childhood development – cognitive (including literacy, science, technology and math), social, emotional and physical (guiding kids towards healthy living)."
My personal favorite show on all of kids' TV is PBS KIDS' Between the Lions. The program is fun for kids, and I have yet to see another series even come close to the level of educational value the show provides. Between the Lions combines puppetry, animation, live action and music to develop a literacy curriculum geared to beginning readers aged four to seven. The highly effective curriculum is based on sound research and helps kids develop several different types of literacy skills.
PBS KIDS also offers several science and math related programs, such as Curious George, It's a Big Big World, and Sid the Science Kid. During the afternoon, PBS KIDS GO! provides programming which entertains and educates early elementary age kids about math, science, and literacy. The afternoon shows, such as the popular Cyberspace series, are some of the few that try to continue making TV educational for kids older than preschoolers.
Do your kids watch PBS shows? What is your child's favorite PBS show? (Use the "comments" link below to share)
(Photo Copyright © Public Broadcasting Service (PBS). All Rights Reserved.)
My kids have always loved PBS shows, though the older they get the less there is for them on PBS. But, still, when my 2nd grader turns on Arthur, before you know it my 4th grader and even 7th grader will drift into the room to watch.