Why You Should Watch CSI

Using Science to Talk to Your Kids

Why You AND Your Kids Should Watch CSI

If CSI had been a show in 1968, I may not have grown up to be a writer! Crime Scene Investigation is a forensics-based cop show aired on CBS prime time that packs a detective-like punch. The show started out as merely CSI – based in Las Vegas; then, with popularity grew to CSI: Miami and CSI: New York.

Blast From the Past
Borrowing bits and pieces from shows gone by, CSI boasts a smorgasbord of the very best cop-show ingredients. From long-ago Dragnet (1967) the events you are about to see are true, to the Miami Vice with the meaningful, heartstring music and serious endings, to the scrutinizing eye of Quincy (1976)…CSI has it all.

Science as a Career
But that’s not the only reason the kids can join in, too. Yes, some of the topics may be graphic for the very young, but parents can be the judge of that. It’s no gorier than Lord of the Rings! CSI uses scientific intelligence. This is a great motivator for kids to explore the world in which they live. If they are seriously interested in investigative crime they should know that they need a Bachelors degree in a physical science such as chemistry, biology or physics. It’s a good way to begin the education discussion topic.
Some of the jobs available in forensics include but are not limited to: 

• Crime Scene Technician
• Crime Scene Investigator
• Laboratory Technician
• Laboratory Analyst for Special Projects
• Forensic Analyst
• Criminalist 

Life is Still Full of Personal Problems
The people of CSI are real, too. They have real problems, real families, and real disappointments. Gil Grissom (William L. Petersen) has a hearing loss problem which affects his life and his work, while Sara Sidle (Jorja Fox) has baggage from the past that affects her present day thought life. Catherine Willows (Marg Helgenberger) is a single mom. However, these people persevere and get the job done – but, the show doesn’t end without mentioning the “little problems” in life again.