I come from a generation of latchkey kids – both of our parents worked, so when we came home from school we let ourselves in, made ourselves a snack, and settled down in front of the television to watch whatever the heck we wanted.
Of course, our parents only had basic cable, so the worst thing we could have watched without their permission was something a little too violent – no access to porn or HBO or things like that. But mostly, we opted for sappy, wholesome shows that we’ll probably never see the likes of again.
Seriously, the shows that air on the Disney Channel now tackle tougher topics than my shows did back in the day.
And below are 15 that will likely never find popularity again, but will live long and prosper in the heart of 1990s kids.
#15. Dragon Tales
There was nothing more fun.
#14. The Magic School Bus
There’s a reboot, but it’s got nothing on the original.
#13. Bill Nye the Science Guy
He’s still the best.
#12. Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood
Daniel Tiger will never live up to the real thing.
#11. Barney and Friends
As a parent, I can say I’m not sad this went away.
#10. Big Comfy Couch
Those tights.
#9. Zoboomafoo
I almost forgot those faces.
#8. Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?
Along with the Apple IIe game – the best.
#7. Beakman’s World
I don’t know who thought this was a good idea, but I love them.
#6. Lamb Chop’s Play-Along
My heart…
#5. Wishbone
There’s not a more dapper good boy out there.
#4. Arthur
More relatable siblings there will never be.
#3. Adventures from the Book of Virtues
So many lessons.
#2. Thomas and Friends
Every little boys’ dream.
#1. Reading Rainbow
A reboot of this would be magical.
I want just one more free afternoon with these shows!