Naughty Nanna.......but doing the best I can!

A friend of mine was banned from watching the Flowerpot Men in case she didn't learn to speak properly! She is now a vicar and must therefore be more eloquent than me. Flobadob . . .

When I said he's watching more tv Teacher11, I didn't mean I'd switched the box on and left it running. He's watching pre-recorded episodes of programmes approved by his parents. He also 'reads' voraciously, has a huge library of books and will happiky follow stories like The Gruffalo. We've been working our way through his Thomas collection while he's been unwell. (Books are very important in this house-mum is faculty head of modern languages with her subject being English.)

Fancy that, I never knew that you could offer picture books to two year olds!
You live and learn on here

Note to self, sarcasm is not witty.

Nor me, grannylyn!

There is nothing wrong with an hour or so of Peppa Pig, Mr Maker or Justin, especially when you have an unwell, fractious toddler to care for, or if you want to keep them out of the kitchen when you're cooking.
I disagree that programmes such as these are poor quality.

We recorded Stickman when it was on and DGD could watch that time and again.

As long as it is not on all day that is fine
And no, this is when we realise that our energy levels are not what they were.

That's all very well Teacher but a poorly 2 year old probably wouldn't be paying that much attention.

My one year old grandchild isn't allowed to watch tv at all. I'm not sure when she will be allowed to do so but feel that a life without Postman Pat, Bagpuss, The Clangers et al is rather sad [my happiest memories of childhood being Rag Tag and Bobtail and The Woodentops]...Didn't stop me talking [as people who know me [you know who you are ] will justify!!

Thanks fellow grans - feel a little less guilty! His parents do so much with both boys small as they both are, They constantly interact with them and use every opportunity to give them new experiences. It's exhausting watching them. I think they could be a little kinder to themselves but hey-ho, their children, their choice. I shall try not to feel like I'm letting the side down though.

Guess I won't be babysitting for teacher then !
Note to self, recharge ipad!

Day time TV and the poor quality programmes aimed at children are not good for their language and reading skills and general development. I never let my children watch anything before 3.30.

There are some good alternatives. Story CDs are brilliant, especially when unabridged, and they build up concentration, listening, vocabulary and grammar skills. The adult also gets to choose the CDs and thereby controls the input (you can, for example, avoid, 'Teletubby' type non-language based programmes). There are also CDs that teach numbers, letters and tables by songs and chanting.

You can offer picture books to two year olds as it is never too early to kick start their pre-reading abilities and habits.

DVDs with children's narratives are better than 'putting the telly on' as, again, the adult can control what is watched and ensure it is of a high quality.

Libraries offer children's CDs and DVDs at minimal cost and charity shops are full of such material at bargain prices.

No need to justify Katek, when GC feel poorly anything goes as far as I'm concerned! You are doing a great job, and it's very hard work at our age
Hope he's better soon.

I think one of the best granny bits is sitting watching TV with a poorly child especially now as DGD1 (age 7) loves things like musicals! You are doing great KateK.

My son and ddil know very well that Grannies rules are somewhat flexible !!!!

It sounds as if you're doing a fantastic job Katek and I'm sure his mum and dad would be completely forgiving about the extra tv time as they must be so very grateful that you've been able to step in and help them. And no, I totally agree about this not being the time to be firm with him - you must do what you think is right for him and for you until he is in better health.
You seriously have no need to feel guilty - I'm quite sure many of us would be struggling to cope full time with an unwell 2 year old. I certainly would be! Well done, you're doing great