We’ve all had to deal with “the talk.”
Some parents are able to shield their children from it until they are teenagers, but with the internet, today’s youth have greater access to information and can surf the web freely.
Like it or not, you have to talk to your children about The Big Bang Theory eventually, so it would be wise to prepare for this moment.
“So Timmy, you know about major television networks right? And how they have sitcoms?”
Perhaps they do already know about this, but it is important to explain this context to your child.
“Well,” you should continue, cautiously, “some of these shows are … just terrible.”
Your child may go into denial at this point, blinded by a naive faith in humanity. They might even cite the show’s Rotten Tomatoes score. At that point, you may have no choice but to show them an episode and watch their innocence drain away.
“People think this is funny?” they’ll ask, melancholy and broken. All you can do is nod, like your parents did for you, and theirs did for them.
This may be the best time for an emotional embrace, as your child contemplates what this means.
“I thought it was one of the most watched shows on TV,” they’ll continue, exasperated.
Do your best not to cry at this point. Just nod and hold them tighter, telling them it’s going to be alright. Your child will shed enough tears for the both of you.
Some other kids at school may not understand, you’ll have to tell them. Some households aren’t horrified by this show; they may even watch it as a family.
“If you’re ever at a friend’s house and they change the channel to CBS on a Thursday night, you call me that instant,” you’ll say. As a parent, it is your responsibility to make sure they are not exposed to the show, or even worse, socially pressured into laughing at it.
Explain the risks of watching the show, including headaches, gastrointestinal issues and back pain, so peer pressure won’t work on them.
“Just say no!” Ask them to repeat that with you, so they truly come to understand it.
No parent ever wants to deal with “the talk,” but it is their duty. Just remind your child that it is natural for them to feel this way, and monitor their behavior.
Don’t be hesitant to reach out for professional help — this can be a stressful time to be a parent. Remember, you are not alone.
