Best Baby Boomer TV Shows for Kids

You love to sing along with Phineas and Ferb. iCarly is ultra-cool. And hey - kids can even learn Spanish while enjoying Dora the Explorer. But let's face it: your kids' favorite shows can get old after awhile. Never fear - you can tune in to some classic TV programs for a walk down memory lane. Your kids will likely love them as well. Best bets:

Little House on the Prairie
You probably grew up tuning in each week to see Pa, Ma, and their girls in Little House on the Prarie. Today's kids will still like watching Laura overcome the odds, whether it's by besting snooty Nellie Oleson or by helping her blind sister Mary. Your kids may even learn a little history along the way, and be inspired to read the Little House books by Laura Ingalls Wilder.

Gilligan's Island
Now sit right back, and you'll hear the tale ... of how 7 castaways figure out how to live on Gilligan's Island. I can't claim it's educational, but Gilligan's Island sure is enjoyable. My sister and I were so inspired by the tropical setting and the quirky personalities of the characters that we used to enjoy acting out our own episodes for anyone who would watch. No doubt your kids will enjoy observing the antics of these early "survivors" as well.

The Brady Bunch
The first "blended family" many of us grew up with, the Bradys make it look easy to raise 6 kids. Granted, most of us don't have a live-in maid who is ready to give wise advice on crises ranging from middle school crushes to surprise anniversary gifts for our parents. But though the clothes may be dated, the issues facing the Brady Bunch are timeless. The love and support family members show each other make this a show your kids will feel good about watching.

Lost in Space
Can you imagine setting off on a 5-year mission to explore a distant planet, only to be sabotaged by a crew member into extending your journey for several years? Welcome to the world of the Robinson family and their wacky cohorts, including a villain (Dr. Smith) and even a robot. This '60s show is a great example of early special effects, and it's a fun series for dads and sons to bond over (and not just the boys: Lost in Space is my girls' favorite weekend night treat!). Scary but not too, and exciting - you can't beat a night "lost in space."