A Place of Our Own: Early Childhood Solutions

The first news I heard of PBS cancelling Mister Rogers' Neighborhood after 40 years came from my sons, who told me a “dumb grownup show” was on instead. A Place of Our Own happens to be the show in question, although I give it higher marks than my boys. Presented in a format similar to The View, the series features host Debi Gutierrez talking with both child development experts and mothers about common toddler crises. Aimed at “parents, grandparents, childcare providers, or nannies,” this particular entry features extensive clips of children in daycare as it looks at concerns such as conflict resolution, tantrums, separation anxiety, self-control, self-esteem, and encouraging friendships, as well as the “isolated child” who is frequently overlooked by adults because introverts don't cause problems. My only criticism is that the onscreen experts employ more education-speak/psycho-lingo than necessary for a program aimed at general viewers—which is a shame, for the advice here is good. DVD extras include outreach materials in PDF format. Recommended, overall. [Note: the companion volume A Place of Our Own: Heath and Nutrition is also available.] Aud: H, C, P. (R. Reagan)