My 6-year-old often insists that his all-time favorite show is Teen Titans Go!, but the truth is, it’s really Diff’rent Strokes. The sitcoms I grew up watching have unexpectedly strengthened our bond during the inevitable screen time we share. My son knows that if he plays his cards right, we might just have a Diff’rent Strokes night, a Facts of Life marathon, or a very memorable Saved by the Bell episode. So, what makes this experience more enriching than the endless offerings on Cartoon Network?
Like many parents, I find myself dismayed by the current state of children’s television—particularly when my kids prefer watching Uncle Grandpa over something more educational like Super Why! It can feel like mind-numbing torture, making it nearly impossible to connect with them when they’re entranced by shows like SpongeBob.
One day a few years ago, my son wandered into the living room while I was immersed in an episode of Diff’rent Strokes on a channel that airs ‘80s reruns between infomercials for used cars. He asked to join me, and I gladly welcomed him. This became a perfect moment to explore themes of race, adoption, and diverse family structures.
As we watched, the storylines began to captivate us both. Sure, we all chuckle at the moment when Kimberly’s hair turns green from acid rainwater, but did you know that episode mainly revolves around Aunt Sophia, the show’s eco-activist, rallying Mr. Drummond to tackle pollution? Aunt Sophia also plays pivotal roles in other progressive storylines, such as when Mr. Drummond demands the removal of junk food vending machines from schools, while Aunt Sophia reads aloud the chemical ingredients from a candy bar wrapper.
Diff’rent Strokes wasn’t the only sitcom ahead of its time. Take the episode of Saved by the Bell featuring Becky, the duck, which cleverly highlights students protesting against fracking. Or remember Charlene from Designing Women, who opted for cloth diapers due to her concerns about landfills? These shows serve as a treasure trove of environmentally conscious lessons, all wrapped in a nostalgic package with a laugh track.
Recently, while at the park, I overheard some kids arguing with their parents over some questionable-looking multi-colored candies. My son leaned over and whispered, “It’s all Arnold Drummond’s fault.” That Arnold, always a catalyst for conversation!
For now, though, we’ll skip the Very Special Episode on pedophilia. I’ll save that for when he turns 7.
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In summary, ’80s sitcoms have not only entertained me but have also provided valuable life lessons and bonding moments with my son. We may be skipping over some heavier topics for now, but the laughter and nostalgia continue to enrich our lives.
Keyphrase: 80s sitcoms parenting
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