March is Women’s History Month and I wanted to share my favorite strong female characters on Netflix: the ladies of One Day at a Time.
Disclosure: I am a part of the Netflix Stream Team, however all opinions are my own and have not been influenced in any way.
I grew up watching One Day at a Time (on syndication). One of things I loved about the show – and other Norman Lear programs – was that it was about the average woman. Just a working single mom raising her two daughters in an apartment. There’s something celebratory about showcasing the everyday life. Norman Lear was brilliant at it. And to be honest, I miss those kind of shows.
When I first heard about the Netflix reboot of One Day at at Time, I was excited. Not only were they bringing back a classic from my childhood – they recreated it with a Latino cast.
I knew would love Rita Moreno and Justina Machado. But I was honestly surprised how much I admired the character, Elena. They definitely nailed the grandmother, mother and daughter dynamic.
One Day at a Time not only portrays the struggles and stereotypes between generations and gender roles but they challenge them.
Elena’s a strong young woman who is learning to embrace her sexual identity. She’s not afraid to speak her mind or challenge Latino tradition. As a millennial, she is caught between the conflicting generations of her grandmother and mother. What I especially love about the show is that all the strong female characters learn accept themselves, their culture and each other.
Strong Female Characters to Watch on Netflix with your Kids
Studies have shown that girls as young as six are influenced by gender stereotypes, and that role models from the entertainment they choose can have a lasting effect. Netflix is home to girls who mean business and that’s something all kids can get behind. Whether it’s Violet’s (A Series of Unfortunate Events) quick wit, Elena’s (One Day at a Time) activist mentality, or Deidra & Laney’s (Deidra & Laney Rob a Train) unorthodox thinking, there’s something for every girl to relate to. And strong female characters aren’t just important for girls. Boys are growing up with Eleven (Stranger Things) saving the crew and Tip (HOME: Adventures with Tip & Oh) showing that true friendship knows no bounds.
And speaking of strong females…
Julie Andrews made her Netflix debut earlier this month in Julie’s Greenroom!
Brought to life by the Jim Henson Company, the enriching show advocates for the arts and the positive impact creativity can have on every child’s life. With an array of very special guests (Idina Menzel, Sara Bareilles and Alec Baldwin to name a few), Julie’s Greenroom might be a show you turn on for the kids but find yourself staying until the final curtain call.
We are huge Jim Henson fans and can’t wait to watch Julie’s Greenroom with Norrin.
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