Are you tired of your kids being overstimulated by loud music, bright colors, and fast-paced scenes on TV? According to studies, these elements could be making it harder for children to focus and self-regulate. (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9923845/)
That's why more and more parents are turning to "slow TV" options for their kids. But what exactly is slow TV?
Slow TV is typically defined by its slow pace and limited use of intense music or sounds. It aims to engage children in entertainment by highlighting play, creativity, and learning in real-world settings.
We've put together a list of gentle ABC Kids shows that you can stream on ABC iview. Here are some of our favorites:
- Fizzy and Suds (https://iview.abc.net.au/show/fizzy-and-suds/)
Fizzy and Suds engages kids in learning and curiosity by creatively exploring popular intense interests across a broad range of topics. Topics encourage out-of-the-box learning that connects to children's interests. Episodes are slow-paced and relaxing, with the animated bubbles placed in real-world scenes.
- Play School Art Crew (https://iview.abc.net.au/show/play-school-art-crew)
This Play School slow TV series features the Art Crew as they delight in creating, discovering, and enjoying some quiet time in the immersive world of art making. Kids can follow along with their own craft, or relax into the calming music and gentle visuals.
- Ready Eddie Go! (https://iview.abc.net.au/show/ready-eddie-go)
Eddie is a brilliantly imaginative little boy — who happens to be autistic. Ready Eddie Go offers bite-sized 'how-to' guides for life scenarios like dressing up, exploring new foods, and hosting a visitor. Each episode walks Eddie and his pals through the day's upcoming activity so he knows what to expect.
- The Sound Collector (https://iview.abc.net.au/show/sound-collector)
The Sound Collector has a passion for sound despite being very hard of hearing. The puppet characters are placed in real-world and immersive soundscapes, in a visually calming show that encourages kids to mindfully engage in the noises around them with curiosity.
- Big Lizard (https://iview.abc.net.au/show/big-lizard)
Big Lizard blends adventure and discovery with learning about science — from solar power to friction, prehistoric flora and fauna, and more. The series also explores social themes of friendship, courage, and communication in a soothing animation with a muted color palette.
- Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood (https://iview.abc.net.au/show/daniel-tiger-s-neighbourhood)
Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood focuses on social and emotional skills like patience and problem-solving. The gentle animation style and kind characters create a comfortable space for children to explore and understand their emotions.
Stream all the best shows for kids and families on ABC Kids on ABC iview. (https://iview.abc.net.au/channel/abc4kids)
But here's where it gets controversial... While slow TV can be beneficial for some children, it's important to consider that not all kids are the same. Some children may find slow TV too boring or unengaging. It's also worth noting that the quality of slow TV shows can vary greatly. So, it's up to parents to decide what's best for their child.
