Learning Math from Television? You Bet!

According to a 2011 research study, “Zero to Eight: Children’s Media Use in America,” children ages 5-8 spend an average of two hours per day watching television, DVDs, or videos.  This number rises dramatically for tweens and teens, up to four or five hours per day, according to a 2010 study, “Generation M2: Media in the Lives of 8- to 18-Year-Olds.”  Excessive television consumption has parents and educators concerned about how TV can displace valuable educational activities.  Since children and teenagers are spending so much time in front of the television, how can we capitalize on the lure of television to promote learning? 

Common Sense Media, a nonprofit group based in San Francisco, provides reviews of various educational television programs for children and teenagers on their website.  The ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines and include categories such as Educational Value, Positive Messages, and Positive Role Models.  Though educational television programs that specifically highlight mathematics are few and far between, I managed to find a few top rated shows that teach and encourage math skills:

• Get the Math: a PBS series that promotes the usefulness of math in a variety of careers (ages 8 and up).
• Secret Millionaires Club: an animated show that introduces children to basic financial concepts (ages 7 and up).
• Biz Kid$: a PBS program that promotes math concepts through true stories about young entrepreneurs (ages 7 and up). 

Know of any other educational shows that promote math concepts?  Please let us know!