I’m so happy *jump* – I’m so happy *jump clap*
Don’t get me wrong, Ms. Rachel has been a lifesaver some days. My baby has never been one to just sit and play, and she has absolutely no interest in cartoons (which is fine by me).
But every once in a while, it’s nice to be able to cook dinner with both my hands. Or pee in peace.
And Ms. Rachel has provided that opportunity. Lately, however, I catch myself singing “D-D-D-D-D-D-D-Dino Play” waaaaaay too often.
I mean, my girl will be in the middle of a solid nap in her room with two sound machines on and I’m walking around the house saying, “uh-oh! I dropped my toy…” (IYKYK)
So, as much as I love having Ms. Rachel as my on-demand babysitter, I’ve also been testing out some alternative tv shows like Ms Rachel for babies.
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I know I can’t be the only mom out there seeking some variety, so I wanted to share my list of other educational baby shows for any other mamas who are ready to get a whole new set of baby tv songs stuck in their head.
Here ya go!
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Best Baby Shows Like Ms Rachel for Babies
1. Paisley’s Corner – Silly Miss Lily (YouTube – Baby TV Show)
Silly Miss Lily specializes in playing with toys! She makes learning and imagination fun through the use of baby dolls, busy boards, art projects, and more. She also incorporates song and dance – she has a big smile that my daughter just loves! These are my go-to baby tv videos when I need a change-up from Ms. Rachel.
2. The Wiggles
A musical group turned TV show, The Wiggles provides energetic performances, catchy songs, and simple dances that encourage physical activity and learning.
3. Signing Time!
This series teaches children of all ages basic sign language through catchy songs, stories, and relatable characters.
4. Playtime with Aygo
Aygo is a friendly puppet who engages babies and toddlers in imaginative play, music, and movement activities, encouraging their creativity and motor skills.
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5. The Baby Club
A live-action show that encourages parent-child interaction through play, songs, and simple activities designed for babies and their caregivers.
6. Julie’s Greenroom
A kids show hosted by Julie Andrews that combines the magic of theater, captivating guest stars, and interactive activities to inspire young viewers with a love for the performing arts. It is geared toward more of the toddler age group, but my 10-month-old loves it.
7. Sesame Street
A timeless classic that combines puppetry, animation, and live-action segments to teach children essential skills, such as literacy, numeracy, and social interaction. Sesame Street has always been one of the popular baby shows for good reason!
8. Bluey
Although primarily aimed at slightly older preschoolers, this Australian animated series promotes imaginative play, problem-solving, and family values through its relatable characters and heartwarming stories.
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9. Caitie’s Classroom
A vibrant and engaging educational show hosted by Caitie, where young learners embark on exciting adventures filled with music, stories, and interactive lessons, fostering a love for learning, creativity, and critical thinking skills in a fun and imaginative classroom setting. This is a great show like Ms Rachel in regards to learning!
10. Talking Toddler with Ms. Moni
An educational show hosted by Ms. Moni, where toddlers engage in lively conversations, interactive games, and imaginative play to foster language development, social skills, and a sense of curiosity about the world around them. She does have an accent to be ready for!
When Can My Baby Watch TV?
I know there is a lot of controversy around letting your baby watch tv. When I was pregnant I did all of my research and swore I would never put on a baby tv show. That lasted all of maybe… 3 months?
So, I’m not here to answer that question for you. In fact, no one can truly answer that question other than you. You know your baby best and ultimately the decision on when to let your baby watch tv is completely your call as their parent.
What I would recommend, is that you do some research on the pros and cons to tv for babies, look at the studies that researched the effects of tv time for babies (use those critical thinking skills), and then make the best-informed decision you can.
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Screen-free time is always a priority in our home and always will be. My baby is happy, thriving, and very loved and I am content with my decision to have very specific shows on for a limited amount of time each day.
To me, WHAT my kids are watching on tv is more important than IF they are watching tv.
That’s why I love using VidAngel in our home. It gives you peace of mind knowing your kiddo is not going to accidentally be exposed to inappropriate, adult content on any commercials or follow-up shows (don’t you just love how the show you are watching ends and then they flash whatever they want to promote up on the screen).
So, if you’re looking to expand your baby’s viewing options, give these fantastic shows like Ms Rachel a try. Remember, a little variety can go a long way in keeping both you and your baby entertained and engaged.
To each mom their own! You should feel empowered to make the best decisions about tv for your baby and your family.
Jess
