Kids’ programs typically make me cringe, but I recently gave the animated series ‘Bluey’ a chance and was pleasantly surprised by the valuable parenting lessons it offers.
Before becoming a parent, I envisioned only exposing my children to nature-themed TV shows, if they watched any screen time at all. However, my perspective has shifted since having kids, as they are familiar with various shows beyond documentaries like those narrated by Sir David Attenborough. Despite my reluctance to explore new kids’ shows, I eventually caved and decided to watch an Australian animated series called ‘Bluey,’ at the urging of my mother.
Upon viewing a few brief episodes, I was captivated by the show’s charm and the insightful parenting wisdom it imparts.
Embracing the Joy of Play
One key takeaway from ‘Bluey’ is the significance of expressing love to your children through the power of play. Each episode revolves around different games the father plays with his daughters, showcasing his creativity and active participation in their imaginative play sessions. Whether it’s engaging in a balloon-balancing act or role-playing as a patient in a make-believe doctor’s office, the father nurtures his children’s creativity and embraces their playful antics with affection. This dynamic fosters a sense of delight and security in the children, knowing they are cherished by their father.
Reflecting on these onscreen interactions prompts me to consider how I demonstrate love to my own children. While love for them is unquestionable, it’s essential that they perceive and comprehend this affection through meaningful engagement that aligns with their unique interests and personalities, especially during their formative years.
The Strength of Unity
Another recurring theme in ‘Bluey’ is the portrayal of the parents, particularly the mom and dad, enjoying each other’s company and collaborating as a cohesive team. Their shared moments during playtime with their daughters, subtle gestures of understanding, and poignant reflections on past experiences convey a deep sense of partnership and mutual care.
This depiction serves as a gentle reminder that my spouse and I can approach parenthood as a united front, not only during lighthearted moments but also in navigating the daily routines and challenges together.
Appreciating Others’ Uniqueness
Lastly, ‘Bluey’ highlights the beauty of viewing the world through a child’s eyes, emphasizing how the young characters, Bluey and Bingo, recognize the inherent value in everyone they encounter. Regardless of age or relationship, every individual in the show, portrayed as dogs, is treated with respect and curiosity, reflecting a childlike wonder in exploring the world around them.
Children often possess a natural inclination to show interest in others, a quality that the show effectively captures. The father’s interactions with various characters underscore the importance of approaching people with a sense of wonder and appreciation, mirroring the genuine curiosity that children exhibit towards others.
In essence, ‘Bluey’ serves as a gentle reminder of the profound impact of genuine connections and the joy found in simple, shared moments. It encourages viewers to embrace a childlike perspective in valuing and celebrating the uniqueness of every individual they encounter.