This is part 4 of a 5 part series, to see the previous post T.V. Shows for Your Toddler, The 5 Best Age Appropriate, #3 Sesame Street click here.

(These shows are not listed in a particular order).

#4 Barney And Friends

Barney is a controversial figure in children’s television. Either parents love him, or they don’t.  Some parents find his upbeat and positive attitude irritating.
Personally, I’m a huge fan of Barney.  I see his happiness and joy as something the world could use more of. Barney is positive, kind, generous and never says a mean thing.

If more people were like Barney, the world would be a better place, and everyone would be much more kind and loving to one another.
Parent’s main concern over Barney’s positivity, is that by watching Barney their child will somehow be put in an unrealistic positive bubble.  Don’t worry parents, have no fear, as that’s not likely to happen.  One hour a day or a week of Barney is not enough to influence your child into a comatose positive state.

Research shows that children need positive re-enforcement early on, as later, when they venture out into the world it helps them meet any challenge that comes up. Introducing little ones to stresses of life and cynicism early on only promotes low self esteem and fear.

Interesting Barney Trivia:

• Did you know that Barneys full name is Barney T. DINOSAUR.
• Did you know that Barney’s favorite bread is pumpernickel.
• Did you know that Barney and friends has been on the air since 1992.
  Studies conducted at Yale show that Barney and Friends is very educational for pre-schoolers.
  

Please Check out Wikipedia for more interesting facts about Barney and Friends on Wikipedia.