• The show should last about a half hour, the length of a toddler's attention span.
• The theme should be of interest to a two year old. A song about bananas would be more meaningful than a segment on tying shoes.
• The pace should keep the child's interest without being frenetic.
• The program should make clear, age appropriate teaching points - about the alphabet or safety on the street - but not more than two or three.
• Characters should reflect the diversity of the world we live in. Toddlers can learn that there are many different types of people in the world.
• The program should encourage children to use their imagination. Not everything needs to be spelled out for them. For example, a story might occasionally be read rather than acted out.
• Children should also be inspired to engage in an activity outside the show. For example, a child should be interested in identifying different colors in his environment after watching a program about colors.
• The characters should model respectful behavior. Violence should never be an option or solution.
• Wiseguy saying or tough action would likely be mimicked by a two year old.
• Shows that have a predictable order of events can be very reassuring to toddlers dealing with separation issues. The opening scene of the Mister Rodgers' Neighborhood show is a good example. "Be aware of the child's behavior both during and after the show," says Walsh. Does he sing along?
• Laugh out loud? Ask questions? Relate to the themes? If so, your toddler is probably getting something positive out of the show.