One of my New Year’s goals this year is actually to watch more TV with my kids. Let me explain. Usually, less screen time feels like a parenting win, but as my big kids are getting older, I want to use TV as a way to bond and create shared memories rather than something we constantly avoid. Instead of mindless watching, I want to teach my kids how to enjoy shows together, talk about what we’re watching, and turn it into something that brings us closer.

As a millennial, I grew up watching a lot of TV with my family, and those memories have stuck with me. There are times I wish we had done more activities outside the house, but there are also moments I am deeply grateful for because they brought us together. I remember watching the very first season of American Idol and cheering when Kelly Clarkson won, then heading to school and realizing everyone else was just as excited. I also remember watching Saturday Night Live with my dad every Saturday night at 11pm sharp. I would actually leave friends’ houses early to make sure I was home in time to watch it with my parents. Super dorky, but also so wholesome of teenage me!

If you are looking for a family friendly show that is not a cartoon, is actually enjoyable for adults, and gives you plenty to talk about, I highly recommend The Beast Games. The show follows large scale challenges where contestants compete using strategy, teamwork, and grit, and it is surprisingly engaging for a wide range of ages. It is easy to pause and talk about decisions, fairness, effort, and sportsmanship, which makes it a great tool for connection instead of passive viewing. Don’t forget how fun it can be when the whole family is cheering for the same player to win. So go ahead and watch more TV with your kids this year, it might just become one of your favorite traditions.