Watch Our Little Family

Our Little Family is a reality television show on TLC that premiered on February 17, 2015. The show follows the daily lives of the Schmitt family, consisting of parents Dan and Michelle Schmitt and their children: Jack, Cece, Cate, and twins Leo and Amelie. All of the Schmitt children have achondroplasia, which is a form of dwarfism, and the show focuses on how their parents navigate everyday challenges to provide the best opportunities for their kids.

The show is set in St. Peters, Missouri, where the Schmitts live in a cozy bungalow. In each episode, we see how the family members tackle their daily routines, from getting the kids ready for school and managing the household to spending quality time together as a family. They also face the unique struggles and obstacles that come with raising a family with dwarfism, such as finding the right-sized clothes, adapting bathrooms for accessibility, and finding the right balance between protecting their children and letting them explore the world.

One of the central themes of the show is how the Schmitts prioritize inclusivity and independence for their children. They encourage their kids to participate in activities that are often stereotyped as "able-bodied," such as swimming, gymnastics, and soccer. They also advocate for disability rights and awareness by participating in events like the Little People of America National Conference, where they meet other families who face similar challenges.

Another major aspect of the show is the Schmitts' close-knit family dynamic. Dan and Michelle "Team Schmitt" have been married for over a decade and met while volunteering at a local disabled sports program. They have a loving relationship built on mutual support and respect, and their parenting style is marked by patience, humor, and flexibility. Jack, their oldest child, often takes on a leadership role and is a pillar of emotional support for his younger siblings. Cece, the middle child, is fiercely independent and always eager to try new things. Cate is the expressive and creative one, and the twins, Leo and Amelie, are the youngest and the most mischievous.

Throughout the show, viewers get a glimpse into the day-to-day joys and struggles of the Schmitts. They celebrate birthdays and holidays, navigate conflicts and disagreements, and face health challenges with grace and resilience. They also tackle bigger issues, such as educating their kids about the history of disability rights and preparing them for the challenges of adulthood.

Our Little Family has received positive reviews for its heartwarming portrayal of a family that defies stereotypes and challenges ableist assumptions. It has been praised for its engaging storytelling, relatable characters, and positive representation of people with dwarfism. The show has also sparked important conversations about disability rights and accessibility, and it has become a source of inspiration for viewers who face their own challenges and obstacles.

In summary, Our Little Family is a heartwarming and engaging reality show that follows the daily lives of the Schmitt family as they navigate the challenges and joys of raising a family with dwarfism. The show offers a positive and inclusive portrayal of disability and has become a source of inspiration for viewers around the world.

Our Little Family is a series that ran for 2 seasons (17 episodes) between February 17, 2015 and on TLC