To introduce a series of articles on nostalgia, I thought it would be appropriate to start at the very beginning, looking at some old-school kids TV shows.
Hopefully there will be at least a few TV shows you recognise, stirring up childhood feelings of peace, carelessness and comfort. Although these may not be your favourites – or even TV shows you are familar with – it’s never to late to embrace your inner child and give them a whirl!
1) Thundercats
‘Thundercats are on the move, thundercats are loose’
This may not be a universally known show, but it should be. The theme tune to the show alone is addictive and brilliant and possibly one of the best theme tunes ever recorded. The show so doesn’t get the respect it deserves!
2) She-Ra/He-Man
Although He-Man is more well know than She-Ra (as many people know the ‘by the power of the grey skull’), but as a nod back to International Women’s Week last week, She-Ra is an empowering children’s TV show that puts a woman in the position of power – she’s a true fighter and an inspiration to children!
3) Pokémon
You may not have known the top spots, but this TV show is notorious. Even if you haven’t had the privilege of watching the series, you will likely know Pokémon from the card game or most likely the video games, back when gameboys were all the rage.
4) Jem and the Holograms
Again this is another show that many may not of heard of, but it is so typically 80’s with its colourful outfits and vibrant music. Definitely an exciting experience – the music is enjoyable and you can easily sing along. It’s almost impossible that the film version will measure up to the brilliance of the original TV series.
5) Mona the Vampire
‘Show us your fangs’
This is TV series that I hope will be most well-know and needs no detailed explanation, from CBBC back when the shows were incredible. Arthur almost took this spot, but to me Mona the Vampire has that quirkiness that kicks Arthur out the water.
6) Grizzly Tales For Gruesome Kids
‘Welcome to the Squeam Screen’
Luckily there is a quite a variety of different children’s TV shows and they all come from different networks, for example this creepy show comes from CITV. I can’t quite explain the appeal, but it was unique and made no endeavour to follow expectations. The fact that it was based on a book series also gave it a creative edge that is definitely translated on screen.
7) Art Attack
Also from CITV, this show was special because it could appeal to even those not invested with artistic talent and the demonstrations could actually be followed! Some might have preferred to see Smart on this list, but Art Attack had a unique, approachable sense of playfulness.
8) Come Outside
This show was a good detox from school. You could simply relax and watch this show with your grandparents and not have a care in the world.
Just as a (very sad!) final note to tug at nostalgic heartstrings, Pippin the dog died in 2008 (there are even commemorative Facebook pages dedicated to him!), but according to this article, he lives on – on the front of Baker’s dog food!