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Everything You Need to Know (Discovery Channel)

common sense media says

Fact-filled fun for tweens with curious minds.

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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this educational series tackles some weighty, potentially scary topics. In an episode on diamonds, for example, "conflict diamonds" and the current African civil wars were mentioned, while another episode focused on sharks. Parents might want to preview episodes to make sure that the topics are OK for their kids.

Positive messages: Reinforces the idea that learning doesn't have to be boring.
Violence & scariness: Occasional references to/images of "true life" violence -- such as sharks searching for prey or civil war.
Sexy stuff: Not applicable.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Everything You Need to Know

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about using TV and the Internet for learning. What Web sites can kids go to when it's time for homework? Which TV shows can be trusted to give good information? This might be a good opportunity to go over which shows kids can watch (and which sites they can visit) and which are off-limits.

What's the story?

What's the story?
Every episode of EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW offers viewers a master class on subjects from hurricanes and poison to junk food and fireworks. In each installment -- which is illustrated by both still photos and live shots -- narrator Matt Liston explains the history of the subject being explored and its relevance to our lives today, including fast facts sure to satisfy trivia buffs. In an episode on diamonds, for example, viewers found out how the gems go from mine to market and how diamond engagement rings became de rigueur. They also learned about conflict diamonds, the rise of the De Beers company, and a more recent discovery called synthetic diamonds.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

There's very little to dislike about Everything You Need to Know. While viewers used to fluffier fare might not find it their cup of tea, curious minds will be entertained, and parents can rest assured that their kids are getting a nutritious half-hour of television. Just be sure to scan the listings for any episode topics that might upset or scare younger viewers.

TV themes & details

TV Details
TV Rating: TV-PG
Network: Discovery Channel
Cast: John Pullum, Matt Liston, Matthew Hoffman
Genre: Educational
Where to watch: Discovery Channel
This review was written by Lucy Maher
 
 

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About our rating system
ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age
Our child development rating guidelines