This post is sponsored by the Dove Channel. The opinions about how it will serve our homeschool well are my own.
I have television-lovers in my house. I’m not really one of them (except for Food Network and Fox News), but both of the men (the dad kind and the teen son kind) would spend most of their time watching television if given the opportunity. I don’t really have any control over the family television when my husband is home. That one is connected to cable because my husband likes sports and home improvement shows and the occasional “grown-up” movie that I would prefer the 15-year old not watch. But we also have a television in our homeschool room, mostly used for well . . . homeschooling — online classes, DVDs and the like. It can be tempting for a teen though, so last year, I disconnected it from cable so it would not be as much of a temptation. That has left this television pretty much useless for its entertainment value.
We tried adding a popular streaming service, but just like cable television, the concerns about access to inappropriate movies and series brought about cancellation of that service. It just wasn’t worth it. However, recently I was introduced to the and finally, we can stream movies and TV shows that I don’t have to worry so much about.
The provides wholesome family entertainment that will not offend the sensibilities of most families. Using the standards of the Dove Foundation, known for its Faith & Family Dove Seals of Approval, potential programming is carefully screened and rated on a scale of 0-5 in the areas of sexuality, language, violence, drugs, nudity, and “other.” The other category includes anything from lying and stealing to witchcraft and illegal activity. In order to receive Dove’s seal of approval and inclusion on the Dove Channel, the TV show or movie must have a rating of 0-2 in every category.
Some of the ratings may still be on the fence for some conservative Christian families. For example, a rating of 2 in sexuality might include infidelity, or in the nudity category, you might see skinny dipping from a distance, cleavage, or bikinis. For that reason, the Dove Channel allows you to customize your settings with parental controls that really work. This is especially helpful if you have young children who might have access to your television unsupervised.
Also, as an added benefit, each program gives you thorough descriptions of what you’ll find in every category. Here is a screen shot I took of a Christmas movie we watched called, The Christmas Clause, a modern-day “It’s a Wonderful Life.” When we chose the movie to watch, before it even began playing, we were sent to a screen that gave detailed information about the ratings in each of the screened categories, what age it is approved for, as well as detailed content descriptions information.
Since the rating for nudity was a 2, I was interested in finding out more about that. A quick glance at the “content descriptions” revealed that we would see cleavage and a woman in a slip and teddy. Based on that information, I could then decide whether this movie was okay for Ben to see.
The “detailed information” gives a synopsis of the story and a Dove review.
Since we’re using the for the TV in our homeschool room, most of the time we will be more interested in the education factor. And the Dove Channel does include an educational category, as well as many documentaries. Ben is especially interested in the Biblical Collector’s Series since we have considered purchasing those DVDs in the past. He also noticed movies on Tyndale, Luther, and Wesley that piqued his curiosity. I saw several geographical documentaries that look to be a great addition to our homeschool programming, too.
You’ll find programming for all ages, from babies through adults. There are some fun older programs, such as Abbot and Costello, Shirley Temple and the like, if you’re looking for less education and more entertainment. You won’t find most of the popular movies and TV shows of today (sorry Dr. Who and Downtown Abbey fans). But if you’re looking for wholesome entertainment and educational value, I don’t think you will be disappointed with the Dove Channel.
There is programming you can view without becoming a paid member, though you will need to open an account. If you are interested in seeing all of the features, you can for $4.99 for one month. After that, the cost is $4.99 per month payable via Paypal. There are no long-term contracts; you can cancel at any time. You can also join with a yearly membership for $39.99.
We are streaming the through a Roku Streaming Stick, but you can also stream it online or through your mobile and tablet devices.
Right now you can for the low price of $11.99. Use the code: GETDOVE at check-out.
