If we lose our minds, take a step at a time. . .

Parenting cognoscenti might recognize our title, which is Jonathan's version of the Blue's Clues theme song. The original actually goes "When we USE our minds and take a step at a time" but I like his better. Yes, after keeping the boys on a strict diet of vintage Sesame Street, we decided to lighten up a little and let in some Blue's Clues. The Noggin channel informs me that the show has been proven to "improve metacognition in preschoolers." I must have missed that neurology lecture in my second year of medical school, because I have no idea what that means. If it means my two boys have rapidly become obsessed with the show, they're absolutely right.

When the credits start to roll, Jonathan calls out the characters as they appear on the screen. Alex runs towards the TV and holds out one palm, then scribbles in it with his fingers. He looks like he's calling for the check in a restaurant, but he's miming writing the clues in the "handy dandy notebook" which is a staple of the show. They both dance like loons during the theme song. Jonathan looks especially cute when it's time to "think. . . think. . . think." He makes sure he's sitting down and puts his chin in both hands with a little frown.

Although the host goes to great lengths to elicit audience input, Jonathan doesn't really enjoy calling out answers. Alex, on the other hand, has somehow grasped the central concept of finding the paw prints. As soon as one appears, the Bear is at the TV screen, grunting and pointing. We give him a big hand every time, which makes him grin with pleasure. Jonathan can sometimes figure out the answer if we prompt him along. What he really enjoys are the little songs scattered through the show.

Still, some things seem to be sticking. When he gets a snack, he asks me "Is this healthy for Mr. Pepper and Mrs. Salt?" He's not convinced about my answers yet - he can't understand how something as delicious as chocolate pudding can be unhealthy - but that must represent some sort of meta-something. Perhaps we should all go watch some more to be certain.