Parent Praise for Nickelodeon Preschool Programming

With many children's television networks shifting their programming towards preschoolers, many parents are left wondering which shows, if any, should their preschooler watch. Nickelodeon is a popular television network among children and teens. During the daytime hours, Nickelodeon is known as Nick Jr. Nick Jr. is programming that is generally educational and geared towards younger children.


Dora the Explorer happens to be one of my daughter's favorite programs to watch. Dora the Explorer is an animated show that last for an half hour. The show usually follows Dora around when she helps out a friend or searches for an important object. This program encourages teamwork because Dora works with her friend Boots, the monkey, and other characters.


When Dora asks for her backpack or map, children are encouraged to say the item. If the backpack is selected, viewers can help pick the correct item that Dora needs by elimination and they can help find the correct path for Dora on the map. This program generally leaves a few seconds of silence before showing the answer to each question. This time will allow your child to give their input on the situation. Dora the Explorer also uses a blue arrow (similar to a mouse cursor on the computer) to point to the correct answer or scenario.


One of the most popular features that Dora the Explorer has to offer to it's viewers is by introducing Spanish words. I never learned Spanish and this show has taught, even me, to count to ten and learn other general words. One of the reasons why I think my daughter is so drawn to the television is because of the bright colors and catchy songs. She is only 20 months old, but has learned how to say map, Dora, and she is working on more words. She also loves to dance when Dora and the other characters sing. To be completely honest, I often find myself walking around the house signing songs that were on the Dora episode that morning.