As parents, we often find ourselves juggling responsibilities, from work to household chores, leaving little time to spend with our children. Now that our daughter is a teenager, those moments feel increasingly precious as she begins to carve out her own space in the world. Between discussions on wardrobe choices, snack preferences, and homework, we cherish our time together—especially during our nightly Netflix marathon.
Once the younger sibling is tucked into bed, we gather on the couch for our beloved binge-watching hour. This is our sacred space to unwind, indulge in dessert, and enjoy some lighthearted conversations about the shows we’re watching. One topic that frequently comes up among parents is what their kids are tuning into, but I often keep my thoughts to myself since tastes can be so subjective. Thankfully, my daughter has moved past the days of Disney and Nickelodeon shows, steering clear of the overly dramatic storylines that often dominate those networks.
Here’s a list of shows that have become family favorites, much to our delight:
- Doctor Who
As a sci-fi enthusiast, I was thrilled to introduce my daughter to this iconic series. Its blend of quirky characters and clever writing, helmed by brilliant minds like Douglas Adams and Steven Moffat, captivated her. She enjoys the whimsical storylines and the philosophical musings of time travel, especially with the charming David Tennant as her first Doctor. Plus, the lack of romantic entanglements is a definite win in my book. - Gilmore Girls
This delightful series about a fast-talking mother-daughter duo has sparked some amazing conversations between us. Watching their witty exchanges has not only entertained us but has also improved our own banter. We’re still in season two, but the warm, charming town and its endearing characters have already made a lasting impression. - 30 Rock
With its smart humor and a strong female lead, 30 Rock offers the perfect blend of entertainment and clever writing. It’s an ideal half-hour escape, especially after a particularly intense Doctor Who episode. - How I Met Your Mother
I was pleasantly surprised when my daughter took an instant liking to this show about young adults in New York City. Its sharp writing and engaging characters drew her in, and I enjoy our inside jokes about the blue French horn and other recurring gags. - Big Bang Theory
While some may critique the show for its focus on adult themes, we appreciate how it cleverly presents science through engaging narratives. The characters’ awkwardness is refreshing, providing a great lesson for teenagers about embracing their uniqueness. - Parenthood
This family drama resonates deeply with us, tackling various real-life issues such as race, autism, and the complexities of family dynamics. It opens up valuable discussions about human behavior and ethical dilemmas, allowing us to explore how we might react in similar situations. - Modern Family
This sitcom presents a refreshing take on family life with its diverse cast and relatable humor. We often watch it together as a family, and it’s been heartening to see how it portrays same-sex couples just like any other parents facing their own challenges.
A couple of honorable mentions include The Neighbors and Better Off Ted, both clever shows that ended too soon and left us wanting more! As we finish up our current series, we’re on the lookout for new recommendations. What shows do you enjoy watching with your older kids?
If you’re interested in more related topics, check out one of our other blog posts here for insights on family dynamics.
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Summary:
Finding shows that appeal to both parents and teenagers can strengthen family bonds. From the timey-wimey adventures of Doctor Who to the heartfelt moments in Parenthood, there’s something for everyone. As we navigate the challenges of parenting a teenager, these shared viewing experiences become cherished memories.
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