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How to watch

Our films are great for awakening an interest in young children in big, important ideas BUT they’ll enjoy it more if you are part of the fun too. Here are some ideas for getting the most out of watching NowYouKnowAbout films:

1. Sit with your child as he watches the programme and point out things, spark up a chat about ideas presented in the film. You can explain things to him in a few words and answer any questions just as easily.

2. Children can’t simply absorb everything they see and hear. But you can highlight the best bits, summarise the new things your child has learnt, and ask him/her questions in a fun and relaxed way. That’s the best route to hardwiring the new stuff into your child.

3. TV is a great learning tool – it’s something children feel positive about. They are receptive to it so it makes learning a lot easier than through a book or a teacher talking. Remember, our films are made to be attention-grabbing: they are short, snappy and only 10 minutes long – a perfect length to keep a child hooked.

4. Follow up a film with a colouring page, a visit to see a painting, an experiment in the kitchen, a look at a wall map – this extends what your child has seen and shows him the relevance of these great figures.

5. Children are so clever – you play the dummy and ask your child to watch a film, then sit on the bed and have your child tell YOU all about Vincent van Gogh – you won’t have to pretend to be impressed – you will be!