What Does the Symbol E/I Mean on Children’s Programming?

The symbol E/I on children’s programming is an important designation that indicates a specific type of programming that is intended to both entertain and educate young viewers. This symbol is commonly seen on shows that air during the daytime and weekend morning time slots on broadcast television.
The E/I stands for “educational/informational,” and it is a designation that was established by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in 1990. The goal of the E/I designation was to ensure that children had access to programming that went beyond pure entertainment and provided some educational value.
In order for a show to be classified as E/I programming, it must meet certain criteria set by the FCC. Specifically, it must have a clear and definite educational or informative objective that is reflected in the content of the show. This objective should be presented in a way that is clear and understandable to young viewers, and it should be reinforced throughout the episode.
Examples of E/I programming might include shows that teach children about science, history, or social studies, or that encourage viewers to learn new skills or engage in physical activities. The content should be appropriate for the age range of the intended audience, and it should be presented in a way that is engaging and entertaining, without sacrificing the educational value of the program.
The importance of E/I programming cannot be overstated. Research has shown that watching educational programming can have a positive impact on children’s cognitive development, language skills, and behavior. Additionally, E/I programming can help to promote positive values and attitudes, such as respect for others and a love of learning.
Parents and caregivers should take note of the E/I symbol when choosing programming for young children. By selecting shows that are classified as educational and informational, they can help to ensure that their children are receiving content that is not only fun and engaging but also beneficial to their overall growth and development.
In conclusion, the E/I symbol on children’s programming is an important designation that identifies shows that are intended to both entertain and educate young viewers. By selecting E/I programming, parents and caregivers can help to ensure that their children are receiving content that is not only fun and engaging but also beneficial to their overall growth and development.