I think it’s a very valid question. Very often I’ve waxed lyrical about the Cbeebies Channel and how it is perfect for keeping the boys entertained. The selection of programmes is bright, colourful, with lots of cheery voices and entertaining music. It’s also educational.

But is it really for the children, or is it for me?

Not too long ago I ended up in a Facebook conversation about some of the Cbeebies characters. Mr Bloom, Dr Ranj and Mr Tumble in particular. If you don’t know who these people are, then you might want to take a look at those links.

What we spoke about most was how desirable some of these characters are. It’s not unusual, I know. I’ve heard many conversations (mostly amongst male friends) about fanciable cartoon characters (Betty Rubble, Marge Simpson, Princess Jasmine), but I never thought I’d be part of a such a conversation myself.

One of the things I hated most while pregnant, was the idea that I’d end up watching a lot of daytime TV when caring for the boys. I never bargained for Cbeebies, nor anticipated how much I would enjoy the programming myself. Not just for it’s entertainment and educational value, but for it’s eye candy too. Seriously… take a look at Dr Ranj (who is a real paediatrician by the way) or Ben Faulks (who plays Mr Bloom). As much as the programmes are designed for children, the presenters are certainly there to make watching them easier for the mothers. And don’t forget about the dads either. What about Katy, Cerrie and Cat? All hotties and certainly worth watching, in spite of the mind boggling levels of pep.

I didn’t know this, but there are forums and sites dedicated to mummy-fandom; women who would chew their own legs off to spend some time with any and all of these presenters. I don’t think I’d go quite so far as that, but I have to say that having these men and women presenting the shows and working the fillers makes it a hell of a lot easier to watch every single freaking day.

And of course, when I saw Mr Bloom last week during the Big Day Out I thought I was going to break something inside my brain. The man is stupidly fit (I know that doesn’t make sense, but he is SUCH a hottie) and live he’s even better. Winning smile, twinkly eyes and a real passion for the show he helped create.

Sitting in the back row with Leon bouncing on my lap last Sunday was far more about me than him or Leon. Dave is so good. Soooooo good! I make no excuses, but he puts up with the gushing, drooling and panting like a real champ. Because he knows Ben is far, far away in Manchester, or because he knows I’m only interested him? A bit of both I supposed. 😉

Any of you guys have kids still young enough to be watching Cbeebies? What’s you’re favourite show? In fact, does Cbeebies even play across the pond? What’s your equivalent?