Supernanny

I'm not into reality shows that much, but this one is exceptional because at the end, the viewer gets something useful out of it besides entertainment. I don't have children but SuperNanny's lessons will be a great help when (and if) I ever do! My only complaint is that the show has been watered down since it has been in the US. I prefer the British version, with the sterner nanny approach. Is it just me or does anyone else find the US version to be a bit soft... now it's the "kinder, gentler" nanny? I guess we Yanks need a spoonful of sugar to help the medicine go down after all?! Still, nothing wrong with a sappy happy ending, is there?

Supernanny Jo Frost, in each episode, gives a family the benefit of her hard-earned experience. But when she's gone will they succeed in sticking to her tough disciplinary rules or do they face a life dominated by unruly children.

Following in the vein of British documentaries "Wife Swap" and "How clean is your house" Supernanny gives an in depth look into the private family lives of average people, but with the added benefit of practical advice on ways to raise your children.

Jo advocates a tough love style of child care and the now infamous 'naughty step' has come into the popular vernacular in many British homes.

In just three short weeks the families featured were turned from a disorganised house of; sibling rivalry, screaming, kicking, biting kids and fighting parents, to a tranquil calm oasis of family love.

The series when aired gathered huge ratings and critical acclaim and is currently in talks to be reversioned for America.

We've all seen (or have) kids who are out of control. Just trying to incorporate a few techniques of Jo Frost, the Supernanny, would probably prove helpful. It's a very entertaining and informative show. First of all, the families are so nightmarish and the kids so awful, you can't imagine that anyone or anything - other than maybe a stun gun - could help. I have no idea how long it takes Jo to work her magic, but the results are totally amazing.

I think one of the big things she highlights is that the parents are the ones who are supposed to be in control. One would think this would be obvious, but it isn't. And also, that control isn't gained by screaming, swearing, or hitting . The other thing her work points out is how desperate these poor kids are not only for attention and discipline from their parents, but for some sort of order and structure in their lives. If they weren't, they wouldn't sob when Jo leaves. The kids all seem to love and appreciate her - maybe not at first, but after a fashion.

Frost is a natural - she's British, outspoken, warm, and empathetic. Parents should find the show helpful in this world of both parents working, chaotic schedules, and the change in parenting style from when many of us were young.