Family Friendly Reality TV

It is no secret that prime time is inundated with Reality TV shows. While most parents enjoy unwinding at the end of the day with their kids they also don't want to expose their children to the less-than-stellar values that are prevalent on reality TV shows. After all, what parent wants their young child to be exposed the rude-is-OK-if-it's-true attitude of Simon on American Idol or the it's-necessary-to-look-anorexic-and-be-catty-towards-other-girls attitude of America's Top Model. (Aren't we trying to break our girls of this anyway?) I won't even get into the convoluted values demonstrated in shows like The Bachelor or Wife Swap.

Luckily, there are a few reality shows that families can watch together that highlight the good and entertaining parts of reality and not the twisted and dysfunctional side that good parents want to protect their children from as long as possible.

The Crocodile Hunter Diaries (Animal Planet)

The Crocodile Hunter Diaries shows what happens behind the scenes with both the staff and the animals at the Australia Zoo.

Pros: You and your children will learn about animals, their needs and habitats, and the necessity of conservation. The Crocodile Hunter Diaries also gives a glimpse into a child's dream job: working with animals as a zoo keeper or veterinarian.

Cons: New episodes haven't been made for several years though reruns still regularly air on Animal Planet.

Another Good Choice: Animal Cops, also on Animal Planet, gives a behind the scenes look at the day to day lives of the SPCA in Houston, Detroit, and San Francisco.

Dancing with the Stars (ABC)

Each season, stars from the worlds of entertainment, news, and sports are paired with professional dancers to compete in a series of ballroom dances.

Pros: The competitors are always good sports towards one another and the judges are always respectful towards the competitors. And the best part is that everyone seems to be having the time of their lives.