Tech has taken over and Gen Alpha is engaging with screens (and social media) more than ever before. The negative effects of unmitigated screen time are well-documented and there’s a lot of content out there that feels like, well, a total assault on the senses—but that doesn’t mean your kid can’t enjoy some quality TV time. Instead, opt for one of these calming kids shows that promote social-emotional learning whilst keeping overstimulation at bay.

Dr. Sanam Hafeez, Psy.D, is a NYC-based neuropsychologist.  She is also the founder and director of Comprehend the Mind. Hafeez received her doctorate from Hofstra University and went on to train as a neuropsychologist. Hafeez provides neuropsychological educational and developmental evaluations in her practice and also works with children and adults who suffer from PTSD, learning disabilities, autism, attention and memory problems, trauma and brain injury and abuse. Hafeez is an expert in childhood development and psychopathology.

Sometimes you don’t know what’s going to overstimulate your kid until the damage is already done, which is why I went to an expert for some advice on how to set yourself up for success when sifting through the chaos in search of calm. Per Dr. Hafeez, “When choosing a calming TV show for kids, look for shows that move at a slow pace [with] soft music and gentle sounds to help kids stay relaxed instead of feeling wound up.” The expert also recommends sticking to “simple stories that make it easy for children to understand what’s happening.”

There are other factors to consider along with narrative quality and auditory stimulation—namely, the visual component. “Avoid shows with bright flashes or fast changes from one scene to another, which can be too much for young viewers, and opt for warm colors and gentle animation styles that add a cozy feeling,” says Dr. Hafeez. Finally, it’s important to keep in mind that messaging matters, too. If you turn on a show and there’s a lot of arguing or snarky dialogue, it’s probably not going to fit the calming profile. (You know, ‘cause interpersonal conflict is, well, stressful.) Instead, look for content that makes kids feel safe with positive messages encouraging kindness, patience and empathy.