A growing number of parents are hitting rewind on the television their kids watch, opting for the nostalgia of shows from their childhoods.
These slower-paced classics are finding a new audience among today’s toddlers as parents seek an antidote to overstimulating modern media. It is considered the “Slow TV” movement.
But the shift isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s backed by science. American pediatric experts suggest that the pacing of kids’ media can significantly impact attention spans, emotional regulation and behavior.
Dr. Zabina Bhasin, a Los Angeles-based child and adolescent psychiatrist known as Dr. Zee, explains that fast-paced programming can overwhelm young children’s developing brains, making it harder for them to focus and self-regulate.
“It may lead to shorter attention spans, heightened irritability and impulsive behaviors as their brains struggle to adjust to less stimulating environments,” Zee says.
Fast-paced kids’ shows are designed to hook young audiences with rapid scene changes, loud sound effects and fast-moving plots that keep children engaged.
While this may seem harmless, Zee warns that overstimulation can wire children’s brains to crave constant novelty, making it harder for them to focus on quieter, sustained activities like independent play or reading.
Research supports what many parents are discovering firsthand: slower-paced media can help regulate children’s emotions and improve overall behavior, according to Zee. She notes that studies have shown calmer shows can lower cortisol levels, helping young children feel more secure and balanced.
For parents looking to transition to calmer programming, Zee suggests focusing on shows with steady pacing, gentle transitions and themes that promote empathy, problem-solving and collaboration.
Some parent-approved slow TV favorites include: Franklin, Little Bear, Rolie Polie Olie, Bluey, Winnie the Pooh and DuckTales.