Ultimate List Of Binge-Worthy TV Shows For New Parents
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In the first weeks and months after having a baby, one great way to pass the little free time you do have, is to dive into a brand new TV show .
New parents might find that they are looking for the perfect show to watch - something that isn't too demanding or stressful - so we've picked our top shows to indulge in for new parents.
The weeks and months after having a new baby are some of the best times of your life, but they can also be exhausting, so it's important to make time to take care of yourself.
Indulging in watching your favourite shows on Netflix or Amazon can be a great way to wind down, but with so much to choose from you may be wondering where to start. Some shows are just right for those first few weeks with a new baby, so Kidadl have listed our top choices below.
Whether you're looking for a light-hearted comedy or gripping drama, these shows are just right to delve into on maternity leave!
Comedy
Shrill - BBC iPlayer
If you like feel-good comedies such as Parks and Recreation or the Good Place, then Shrill, currently available on BBC iPlayer, is a great choice. The show's main character, Annie, is trying to make it as a journalist whilst dealing with the world's unrealistic expectations.
Annie decides to stop trying to please everyone, and live life her way. Featuring just as many laugh-out-loud moments as ones of warmth, this is one of the best shows for new parents to watch on maternity leave.
Stath Lets Flats - All4
For fans of UK comedies such as The Office, Stath Lets Flats is a hidden gem which is a dangerously easy to watch all in one sitting.
The show follows hapless estate agent Stath as he tries to become the top employee at his family's business. Stath's attempts at a smooth estate-agent persona plunge him into increasingly hilarious situations, whilst characters such as his sister Sophie and dad Vasos bring a warmth to the show which make the show a brilliant feel-good comedy.
With moments that will make you laugh just as much as they make you cringe, Stath Lets Flats is perfect viewing for those first post-baby weeks.
Schitt's Creek - Netflix
If you've just started a family, then the trials of the dysfunctional Rose family in this brilliant and hilarious show will make for a perfect watch.
The formerly wealthy Rose family start life in a new town after losing everything they own - except for the town, which they bought as a joke birthday present years ago.
Parents Johnny and Moira, and their two grown-up kids David and Alexis have to adapt to living life like ordinary people, making for some hilarious situations they get themselves into.
With all six seasons on Netflix, maternity leave is the perfect opportunity to get into this amazing sitcom.
Joe Pera Talks With You - All4
This cult US favourite may be one of the most unique shows on TV. Comedian Joe Pera stars as a fictionalised version of himself, a choir teacher living in Michigan.
Combining elements of comedy, drama, and documentary, Pera invites the audience to learn all about an aspect of his life.
With a good hearted tone, each 10-minute long episode is full of warmth, making this one of the best shows to put in those short snatches of time you get to yourself in between looking after the baby.
Best of all, if you have just managed to put the baby to sleep, this quiet, gentle show is certain not to wake them.
Documentaries
Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness - Netflix
If you haven't done so already, then maternity leave is a perfect time to dive into Netflix's hit documentary series Tiger King. Delving into the bizarre world of big cat breeding, the show features larger-than-life characters and some unbelievable twists along the way.
The series explores the rivalry between Carole Baskin and Joe Exotic, two owners of big cat zoos in the US. If you're looking for the type of programme that will keep you hooked from episode to episode, then look no further than Tiger King.
Travel Man: 48 Hours In... (All 4)
If you're missing being able to get out and about whilst spending time with a newborn baby, then Channel 4's Travel Man is a perfect antidote.
Richard Ayoade and a guest spend 48 hours in a city, taking in its best sights, travelling to places such as Barcelona, Hong Kong and Krakow.
Ayoade's unique presenting style make this an entertaining watch, and special guests such as Paul Rudd, Rebel Wilson and Joe Lycett ensure that this is an entertaining journey around the world.
What's more, if you're planning a post-lockdown family holiday, then Travel Man is also a brilliantly informative show, packed with loads of knowledge on all the best attractions and food to sample in any city you like.
Drama
Jane the Virgin - Netflix
For a show which deals with life with a new baby, Jane the Virgin is a great watch.
The series, which follows the title character Jane as she unexpectedly becomes pregnant, is perfect viewing for those first few weeks of becoming a parent. With hilarious moments alongside warm moments, and all of the shocking twists and turns of a telenovela, the show is sure to make you feel a whole range of emotions.
With five seasons to throw yourself right into, Jane the Virgin is essential watching for those moments when you find yourself some time to relax with your baby.
The X-Files - Amazon Prime
If you're looking for a nostalgic show to watch in the downtime while adjusting to life with a baby, then every episode of The X-Files is available for streaming on Amazon Prime.
FBI agents Mulder and Scully may seem like two complete opposites, but you'll grow to love them as they take on all kinds of unsolved mysteries, including alien life-forms and strange creatures.
If you're a longtime fan, then the monster of the week episodes are a good choice if you're looking for a show to dip into one episode at a time.
Or, if you've never watched before, then why not start from the beginning, and work your way through every season?
Hollywood - Netflix
For fans of period dramas, Netflix's series Hollywood is also must-see. Focusing on a group of aspiring actors in the Golden Age of Hollywood, the show brilliantly recreates Los Angeles in the 1940s, with amazing costumes, scenery and music.
The show's main characters each dream of success in the world of entertainment, but may have to take risks to get it. If you're looking for a gripping drama with brilliant characters, then you're bound to like Hollywood.
Second image credit: neftali / Shutterstock.com
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Bachelor of Arts specializing in History
Sam CarrBachelor of Arts specializing in History
Based in Leeds, Sam is a passionate history student who developed a love for the subject through visits to museums across the country during his childhood. He has since become a true history buff, with a wealth of knowledge on the subject. When he's not studying, Sam enjoys discovering new places, listening to music, and exploring vegan cuisine.
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2) At Kidadl, we strive to recommend the very best activities and events. We will always aim to give you accurate information at the date of publication - however, information does change, so it’s important you do your own research, double-check and make the decision that is right for your family. We recognise that not all activities and ideas are appropriate for all children and families or in all circumstances. Our recommended activities are based on age but these are a guide. We recommend that these ideas are used as inspiration, that ideas are undertaken with appropriate adult supervision, and that each adult uses their own discretion and knowledge of their children to consider the safety and suitability. Kidadl cannot accept liability for the execution of these ideas, and parental supervision is advised at all times, as safety is paramount. Anyone using the information provided by Kidadl does so at their own risk and we can not accept liability if things go wrong.
3) Because we are an educational resource, we have quotes and facts about a range of historical and modern figures. We do not endorse the actions of or rhetoric of all the people included in these collections, but we think they are important for growing minds to learn about under the guidance of parents or guardians.
