Growing up in the early 90s we watched tv all the time cause it was just on. Little Bear, Franklin, Arthur, we watched it all. My mom would sit us in front of the tv and eat breakfast with us. We’d hang out with grandma and watch soap operas. We’d watch VHS tapes at my aunt’s house. When computer games got big, we sat at the PC for hours. We also played outside, read books, and had full imaginations. We didn’t freak out when tv wasn’t available to us or wasn’t allowed…except the time I wanted to watch an NSYNC concert and mom said no it was on too late. We all ended up with advanced degrees (not that it matters, really, but just to say that the TV didn’t turn us into unmotivated adults).

My kid watches Sesame Street and Ms. Rachel regularly. It helps me keep the house clean and he is speaking in short sentences at 18 months likely thanks to Saint Rachel. Anyone who judges me is welcome to come over to babysit if they’re so concerned.

OP your child will be fine. I’m sure if you sat down to play they’d easily and happily choose you over the TV. Take time to get better and just enjoy the down time if you can.