Dads Talk Q&A

Welcome to Dads Talk Q&A, where dads help the Moms Council address questions. This week's question:

I like to watch, “Billy the Exterminator” and Man vs. Wild type shows with my daughter, but my wife thinks they're gross. Any advice?

Jimmy Davis:

I would tell your wife to lighten up, that these shows are actually great teaching tools.  Billy the Exterminator can actually teach your daughter, what type of bugs, spiders and bee’s to stay away from. Also, the Man vs. Wild show can teach your daughter survival skills.

Andrew Peters:

As long as you're not watching shows with foul language, violence or other inappropriate content with your daughter, I don't see what the big deal is.  Explain to your wife that your daughter likes these shows, and that you enjoy spending time with her watching together.

Michael Tausch:

As with anything, as long as you are watching these shows with your child then you can definitely take advantage of the teachable moments that they present.  I think that you should sit down with your wife and tell her the value that your child can gain from watching the shows.  For instance, every child has to go to Science Class and learn about creatures, critters and various ecosystems.  Just from watching one episode alone, you may be able to help your son or daughter out with upcoming Science assignments.  Both shows discuss various animals and insects that coexist with humans.  From that standpoint it is a good thing to watch.  I can say that I draw the line with "Hillbilly Handfishing".  Hope this helps.