Now that Isabel is 2, she is allowed to watch TV according to the American Pediatric Association, however, the APA is unclear on which TV shows are actually worth watching for a 2 year old.  This has lead to a few disagreements between Isabel and I.

We both agree that “football game” is the best.  So that’s good.  Isabel likes to watch football games and laughs then yells “he fell over” when someone gets tackled.  She also likes when someone kicks the ball. Finally, she likes when dad’s sings Gridiron Heroes (The Detroit Lions fight song). 

We also agree on what is worst – fast moving cartoons with lots of cuts and fast talking.  Think Power Puff Girls or SpongeBob Square Pants (the non-Broadway version). 

After that we disagree on what to watch.  Isabel doesn’t know too many shows, so she insists we watch Daniel Tiger (animated Mr. Rogers).  While this is generally a well done show that can teach her a lot of good lessons about how to behave it is less than entertaining for long stretches for adults. 

I compromise and suggest Disney movies because…well…I love Disney movies (and because they are kid friendly).  Moana seemed timely so I suggest that.  We watched a few minutes of it and she started calling it ‘No-ana’  (I’ll admit that the play on words was genius and probably unintentional).  Occasionally she would call it ‘yes-oana’ but then when I put it on she’d change her mind and ask for more Daniel Tiger. 

Recently, Isabel was sick (again) so I had my opportunity to mold a pliable and tired child into watching what I wanted.  She loves snuggles and TV when she’s sick. Together, we finally finished Moana after watching the first 2-30 minutes about five times and we started Lion King (she got scared at the stampede scene).  I’ll call it a success!  Go Disney! Go Isabel!  Meh Daniel Tiger!