Return to Simpler Screens
The year 2025 has brought a lot of chaos, but for some people, it has also offered moments of clarity. For me, this time has been a chance to grow and reflect, even with a few tough moments. I’ve started looking back on the joys of my childhood, those carefree times that brought comfort and happiness during stressful days. I work full-time, and recently, my job has started to affect my mental and physical health.
To help myself, I had a simple idea: Why not look up Arthur on PBS Kids? I didn’t realize then how much this would help my mental well-being. Watching the show brought back warm memories of coming home to my grandparents after school, sometimes after a nap in my dad’s car. PBS Kids was more than just a TV channel for me, it was a safe place during chaotic times.
As I move through this uncertain world, watching early 2000s shows from PBS Kids and Qubo gives me a rare escape. It helps me reconnect with a time that felt safe and simple, away from the challenges of being an adult.
The World Then vs. Now
As someone from the older Gen Z group, I grew up with MP3 players, dial-up internet, and AOL. I remember life before Instagram and TikTok, when we relied on our imaginations. I was also lucky to watch educational cartoons that inspired my interest in astronomy.
As kids, we dreamed about the freedom of being adults, only to feel let down when we got there. Childhood was a special time to just be ourselves. Back then, the world seemed full of possibilities, and we were excited to explore it. Without social media or online negativity, it truly was a great time. It was just us and the colorful characters on TV.
Now, the pressures of adulthood seem to get stronger every day. Today’s political, social, and economic issues bring constant challenges, affecting not just our generation but older ones too. We’re all trying to find our way in a world full of instability and negative changes, which raises stress and anxiety. Many young people, myself included, often feel drained and overwhelmed. The constant push to stay involved can cause burnout and leave little time to rest.
Amidst this chaos, I’ve discovered that revisiting the nostalgia of my childhood brings me a sense of peace. Watching the familiar shows that I grew up with calms the storm of reality.
Nostalgia TV Shows
PBS Kids:
Arthur: One of my favorites! This show followed the adventures of Arthur Read as he navigates friendships in his town of Elwood City. The show emphasized problem-solving that was relatable to us young viewers at the time.
Cyberchase: This TV series was all about learning mathematical concepts and teamwork. It followed three kids teaming up to fight against the Hacker, who was out to destroy Motherboard.
Dragon Tales: Siblings Max and Emmy befriend friendly dragons. This show sparked my imagination and curiosity about the world around me.
Clifford the Big Red Dog: This was always a favorite. The show is about a giant red dog named Clifford and his owner, Emily Elizabeth. Set in a friendly neighborhood, it teaches kindness, inclusivity, and friendship through different adventures and lessons.
Zoom: I can still remember the theme song. This show encouraged kids to join in creative activities, like arts and crafts, games, and challenges.
Fetch! With Ruff Ruffman: This was another favorite! I wanted to be on this show so bad as a kid. My favorite episode was the one where they had their grandparents on Season 1 dancing to Aaron Carter. This series was focused on pre-teens and teens engaging in real-life challenges in their community to gain points.
Qubo:
Jane and the Dragon: This show follows a brave young girl Jane as she befriends a dragon. I loved the medieval theme throughout the series.
Jacob Two-Two: Oh my goodness! This was another favorite of mine. The story revolved around a young boy who feels overlooked by his family and peers. He went on adventures to showcase the importance of perseverance and self-advocacy. Also, he was known to say certain words twice!
3-2-1 Penguins!: This animated series combined family values and humor as it follows a group of penguins who embark on intergalactic missions. Also, it was built on Christian values, I didn’t find this out till years later!
Pecola: Focusing on the life of a young penguin named Pecola, this series highlights his experiences and the lessons he learns about friendship, acceptance, and understanding, all set against a backdrop of relatable childhood situations.
Rupert: I have so many favorites, but this is another. This animated show follows Rupert Bear and his friends as they embark on fairytale adventures.
Sitting Ducks: In this quirky animated series, Bill, a duck, befriends an alligator named Aldo, and they go on adventures.
These shows which I listed are just a few, I mentioned here.
The Emotional Impact: Why It Still Matters
My mental health has been tested over the past few years. As I watched familiar shows and heard the voices and themes I remembered, my mind slowed down and I could relax. In a world that often feels chaotic, going back to those childhood memories has given me a much-needed sense of peace.
Looking back on my mental health, I see that a lot of my struggles came from feeling frustrated about things I couldn’t control. But when I watch shows like Arthur, Cyber Chase, and Rupert, I find a safe space where my mind can relax. Watching these programs helps me think more positively, with thoughts like, “I can do this,” “I have goals, and I will achieve them,” or “I’ll get through this; I can feel it.”
These shows encouraged me to be compassionate and to keep learning, and they also helped me feel part of a community. I’ve always valued these ideas, but now they mean even more to me. It’s a reminder that the world can shape us in ways we might not notice, but we get to choose how much we let it affect us.
By going back to these comforting stories from my past, I’ve started to feel happier and less stressed, which has helped me move out of a depressive state. It feels good to know that it’s possible to find strength and positivity, even when things are tough.
A Rewind with Purpose
These shows aren’t just old memories—they’re filled with lessons and happiness from our childhood. As we’ve grown up, we might have lost touch with those simple joys, but it’s never too late to go back. Nostalgia isn’t about escaping; it reminds us of the good times we had. If you’re from my generation or a millennial, I encourage you to set aside some time each week to watch your favorite childhood shows. Enjoy them with your favorite snack or meal, get comfortable with a blanket or stuffed animal if you still have one, and take time to enjoy those memories.
Share in the comments if you had any favorite childhood TV shows growing up.
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