Just Eilidh

Rest & Connect: The Joy of TV

‘This post is a collaboration with TV Licensing (a trademark of the BBC), but all thoughts and experiences are my own.’

Life for us currently can only be described as busy. But one way we all enjoy coming together is by watching TV. Having a TV license allows us to indulge in our favourite shows, whether it’s a cosy night in with my partner, getting absorbed in an exciting drama, having a good laugh with a comedy, watching game shows with my teens, or snuggling up by the log burner with a favourite Christmas film. Pressing play together gives us some much-needed downtime and strengthens our bonds through shared experiences.

Christmas Day Films: A Festive Tradition

Christmas Day is one of the few times I find myself excited to check the live TV schedule. There’s something about knowing what’s on that adds to the anticipation. Every year, we look forward to the BBC’s animated Christmas Specials as a family. This year, we are excited for Tiddler, the latest adaptation of a Julia Donaldson story. Her magical stories have become a highlight of the season, weaving a spell of wonder that’s as magical for adults as it is for kids.

Watching the TV together at Christmas brings a special kind of joy. Whether it’s traditional favourites in the background while we decorate the Christmas tree or sitting on the sofa together, the Christmas lights twinkling, with snacks and mugs of hot chocolate. Watching Christmas day films on TV as a family creates a rare moment where everyone is completely present and enjoying the same experience together. These cosy hours spent together are the memories I often cherish.

My Personal Favourites Offering Escapism And Inspiration

I tend to watch TV in the evenings after a busy day of work and rushing around after the kids. TV isn’t just a way to switch off; it’s also a way to recharge and tune into my mood, a form of self-care. I sometimes enjoy the suspense of a psychological drama or crime series. 

Shows like Line of Duty will have me completely hooked, and they keep me guessing with every twist and turn. But then there are days when life feels a bit heavy, and I just need something lighthearted to escape into. Motherland is my go-to for a good laugh and relatable chaos.

I also love a good docuseries, whether it’s something more easygoing like Boybads Forever or a true crime, gritty subject that leaves me wanting to know more. Then, sometimes, I look for inspiration in home improvement shows like Grand Designs or Kirstie’s Homemade Christmas. TV has this endless library of stories and information that always seems to have just what I need.

Children’s Favourites As They Grow

BBC iPlayer has been a constant in our home, growing right alongside my children. It was all about CBeebies and fun, engaging and educational programmes when they were toddlers. 

As they’ve grown, shows on CBBC like Malory Towers and The Next Step have become go-to after-school and sports clubs for my daughter.

But what I love most is how these shows allow us to slow down and spend time together. These moments in our busy day allow them to relax, unwind, and recharge. Sitting down to watch something they enjoy, even if it’s just for a short while, is a way for me to connect with them and sneak a cuddle.  

Bonding With Teens Through Gameshows

Recently, game shows like The Traitors and Survivor have become firm favourites in our household. These shows bring an element of suspense, strategy, and drama that I’ve discovered I can enjoy with my teens. It’s become a tradition to pick a gameshow and watch it together. A moment during a busy week where we know we will get to spend some time with each other and something we now look forward to.

Watching game shows together provides entertainment and also sparks discussions about alliances, betrayals, and who we think will win. I find it fascinating to see how my teens analyse and what they think about the gameplay. It offers a glimpse into their thought processes and perspectives and has proven to be a real bonder in a time when it can feel like they are drifting away.

Your TV Licence lets you enjoy a huge range of live TV. It covers you for:

 

Exit mobile version