My six-year-old, Max, often insists that his favorite show is “Teen Titans Go!” However, the truth is that he is enamored with “Diff’rent Strokes.” The sitcoms of my youth have surprisingly fostered a unique bonding experience during our shared screen time. Max knows that if he’s fortunate, we can indulge in a “Diff’rent Strokes” marathon, or perhaps an evening featuring “The Facts of Life” or a particularly memorable “Saved by the Bell” episode. So, what makes these classic shows more enriching for us than the current offerings on Cartoon Network?
Like many parents today, I find the landscape of children’s television quite disheartening, especially when my kids prefer watching “Uncle Grandpa” over educational shows like “Super Why!” It can feel like mind-numbing torture, and it’s challenging to engage with them when they enter a trance-like state during “SpongeBob SquarePants.”
A couple of years ago, while I was watching “Diff’rent Strokes” on a random channel that airs ‘80s reruns alongside infomercials for used car dealerships, Max wandered in and asked to join me. It presented a wonderful opportunity to discuss important topics such as race, adoption, and diverse family structures.
As we delved into the episodes, I was surprised by the depth of the storylines. While many of us remember Kimberly’s hair turning green from acid rainwater, we might not realize that episode primarily features Aunt Sophia, an eco-activist, trying to involve Mr. Drummond in pollution control efforts. Aunt Sophia also plays a significant role in other progressive episodes, such as one where she helps Mr. Drummond demand the removal of junk food vending machines from schools while reading the chemical ingredients from candy bar wrappers.
“Diff’rent Strokes” is not alone in its forward-thinking themes. For instance, you may recall Becky, the duck from the oil spill episode of “Saved by the Bell,” but did you ever consider that the students were protesting fracking? Additionally, Charlene from “Designing Women” used cloth diapers due to her concern about landfills. These shows are a treasure trove of environmentally-conscious lessons wrapped in nostalgia and humor.
Just recently at the park, I overheard some children arguing with their parents over some oddly-colored candies, and Max leaned over and whispered, “It’s all Arnold Drummond’s fault.” That Arnold, always serving as a catalyst for discussions!
For now, however, we’ll be postponing the Very Special Episode about sensitive topics like pedophilia until he’s a bit older. I believe this approach allows us to engage with the material when he is ready to understand it.
In summary, the sitcoms of the ‘80s have not only served as a nostalgic escape for me, but they have also become meaningful educational tools for my son. They provide a platform for discussing complex social issues and instilling values in a fun, memorable way.
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