Meet the Fresh Beat Band

When my children were born, I made a vow to myself: No Barney.

No Barney, No Wiggles, No Doodle Bops. I don’t have anything against any of these shows specifically, but I just didn’t want to be subject to having to watch them constantly. Adults in crazy costumes and talking in strange voices to children make me a little uncomfortable.

Then my children discovered the Fresh Beat Band, a upbeat, clean-cut, fun and musical group of young adults who sing and dance their way through stories about helping friends, working together and putting on festive and energetic shows for their music school.

I can sing the opening song by heart (in fact, it sticks with me all day and I find myself humming it from time to time), my children know the dance moves and I often see them playing “Fresh Beat” when they put on shows and play instruments.

My husband and I joke that there is more to the story of Kiki, Marina, Twist and Shout; they might have sordid histories or are heading down the path of other young celebrity stars who collapse under stardom. But for now, the band of four brings music and joy to my young children. The added bonus is that I actually like them too and approve wholeheartedly of my children’s current fascination with them.

If you are of the camp that some television for children is OK, then the Fresh Beat Band is a great choice. The show teaches kindness, understanding and friendship, all set to a soundtrack of catchy tunes.