The Best TV Shows for Tweens and Teens

As summer is winding down and the reruns on some of our favorite channels are coming to an end, we are looking forward to fresh, clean, new shows to enjoy. With that, sometimes sex, drugs, crime and other things we dont like our children to see, sneak up even through the channel rating guides, making it more difficult to make smart viewing choices so that the whole family can safely watch television. Some shows appear to be ok for kids to view and all seems well in the beginning, then all of sudden there are two or maybe even three people making out on the screen, or even a drug deal gone violent. Unfortunately, this behavior seems to be getting more acceptable as time goes by.

I have three teenagers, two girls ages 13 and 16 and a son aged 14. Some of their favorite shows are about kids their own age. The storylines tend to deal with older child and teen issues ranging anywhere from friends, school,dating,family to peer and age related issues. Now a days kids are even saving the planet! These shows also carry a touch of humor and a pinch of drama, which really attract attention to young viewers.

Here are some hot shows for young people that are gaining popularity- (be sure to check out your local television guide for listing times and channels) -

That's so Raven - Raven creates a definite spin on the young TV tween circuit. The twist is that Raven sees into the future. Her psychic abilities are totally unknown by her family and friends so Raven comes out on top every time the world seems to be coming unraveled around her. Not to mention she's hilarious! A great show for the whole family, but mainly targeting the tween audience.

Hannah Montana - What is it with young girls making it big on TV, and following in the footsteps of their famed parents? Hannah Montana is no exception to the rule. Her dad is country superstar Billy Ray Cyrus. Miley Cyrus or Hannah as we all are know her, is not only a teenage icon, she can act too. Everything from serious singing to cracking a jaw busting joke, Hannah is a big sister to thousands of young girls. Holding the crown as Disney's Sweetheart with her hot new clothing line and squeaky clean image, she is a safe bet to leave your young viewers in her care for 30 minutes at a time. Suitable for young girls and teens of all ages!

The Suite Life of Zach and Cody - What do you call two cute wall bouncing twins with two slightly different hairstyles? Why Zach and Cody of course. I've chuckled at watching this funny show and again and again they have so much fun driving their mom and others crazy at the hotel in which she sings for. To make things even more interesting they all live there too! In the end they always end up saving the day but watch out, trouble will be brewing up for the next big scheme! Perfect for the 10 to 13 year age group.

ICarly - Brand new and sure to be a hit, cute and ordinary teen Carly Shay ultimately turns into the overnight sensation after hosting her musical talents onto her website. Viewers are encouraged to submit their own talent too, and even be able to have a chance to join her and display their own vast abilities. Definitely different and sure to attract the tween and early teen ages.

Just Jordan - Revolves around Jordan, a Sophomore who's crazy ego always gets in him trouble. Join him and his friends as they try to weasel out of yet another sticky situation. A dandy dig for the Junior High or High School student.

Zoey 101 - Starring the very look a like younger sister to Ms Brittany Spears, Jamie Lynn Spears takes the starring role in her own cable TV sitcom. This show revolves around Zoey as the new girl on the block (literally) at the Pacific Coast Academy of all boys. She highlights her talents by creatively making backpacks and designing clothes,making stances and friends along the way. She powers through and proves to be a true leader by saving the day and also adding a little spunk and humor to the mix. Jamie's show appeals to tweens and young girls across America.

Be sure to catch these upcoming specials that the young generation surely will want to tune into: High School Musical 2 (The music in you)- just think "Grease" but for this generation. Full of drama, and cut throat stage stealing moves, this show is sure to be a hit for the whole family.

Last but not least I'm really looking forward to sitting down with the whole family and watching Kid Nation, a new up and coming reality show where kids are in charge and make decisions without the adults. Maybe this is the show that will change the world or it least how we look at how children affect our lives day to day.

So maybe instead of letting your 12 year old watch MTV with its saucy videos or the latest episode of "Spoil me rotten- I'm only 16!", try ordering some pizza, sitting down as a family and catching the latest episode of Hannah Montana, you may be surprised at how much fun you can all have together.