My 6-year-old often claims his favorite show is Teen Titans Go!, but the truth is, it’s really Diff’rent Strokes. The sitcoms from my own childhood have surprisingly become a unique bonding experience during our screen time together. My son knows that if he plays his cards right, we might have a Diff’rent Strokes night, a Facts of Life night, or even a very special episode of Saved by the Bell. So why is this nostalgic trip down memory lane working out better for us than today’s animated offerings?
Like many parents, I find myself cringing at the current landscape of children’s television, especially when my kids opt for Uncle Grandpa over Super Why!. It can be mind-numbing, and engaging with your children becomes nearly impossible when they slip into a SpongeBob daze.
A couple of years ago, my son walked into the living room while I was watching Diff’rent Strokes on a random channel that specializes in airing ’80s reruns alongside infomercials for used car dealerships. He asked to join me, and I welcomed him in. This presented a wonderful opportunity to discuss topics such as race, adoption, and diverse family structures.
As we watched, the storylines grew increasingly intriguing. You might recall the episode where Kimberly’s hair turned green after a mishap with acid rainwater, but did you know that the episode primarily revolves around Aunt Sophia, the show’s eco-conscious character, trying to involve Mr. Drummond in pollution issues?
Aunt Sophia often emerged as a voice of reason in other episodes that tackled timely topics. For instance, there’s the episode where Mr. Drummond insists on removing junk food vending machines from schools, while Aunt Sophia reads the ingredients from a candy bar wrapper, a discussion that feels remarkably relevant today.
Diff’rent Strokes wasn’t the only trailblazer in this regard. You might remember Becky, the duck from the oil spill episode of Saved by the Bell, but do you realize that those students were actually staging a protest against fracking? Or that Charlene from Designing Women opted for cloth diapers due to her environmental concerns? These shows serve as a treasure trove of life lessons wrapped in nostalgia and laughter.
Recently, while at the park, I overheard some kids arguing with their parents over some questionable-looking, brightly colored candies. My son leaned in and said, “It’s all Arnold Drummond’s fault.” That Arnold, always there to drive the point home!
But for now, we can skip the Very Special Episode about more serious issues. I’ll save that one for when he turns 7.
If you’re interested in exploring more about life lessons and parenting through various lenses, check out this post on Modern Family Blog. And if you’re considering starting a family, you might find the NHS to be an excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination options. For those looking to take matters into their own hands, reputable online retailers like Make a Mom offer at-home insemination kits.
In summary, revisiting the sitcoms of the ’80s has not only helped me bond with my son but has also provided valuable lessons that resonate today. Who knew that our favorite childhood shows could become a springboard for important discussions?
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