Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that despite being part of HBO's preschool programming block, this series is better suited for slightly older kids. It's all about celebrating friendship: In every episode, the main characters are faced with a little issue in their friendship that's always settled with compassion and compromise.
Families can talk about what friendship means and what it takes to be a good friend. Why are apology and forgiveness an important part of friendship? How can we express how we feel to friends? Topics like sharing, honesty, and forgiveness are illustrated within the slapstick antics of these silly hippos, and there are some good lessons to be learned amongst the giggles.
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Andrea Graham
Based on the hilarious book series by James Marshall that has enjoyed more than 20 years of success, GEORGE AND MARTHA is ready to be loved by a whole new generation.
Hilarious hippo duo George and Martha are magnets for mix ups. As best friends are wont to, George and Martha do everything together, including sharing meals, hanging out, and helping (sometimes with mixed results) each other when they're in trouble. The ups and downs and ins and outs of friendship are the central themes of the series, which offers kids a chance to reflect on their own friendships.
George and Martha will no doubt bring a smile and a giggle to a child's day. The characters' earnest attempts to be a good friend sometimes backfire, but watching George and Martha mend their messes is a lot of fun. The educational content isn't strong, but the show does illustrate many different pro-social elements that even older children can benefit from. The only potential negative aspect is that George and Martha are sometimes laughed at because of the trouble they get into (like getting stuck in a door) due to their size.
Overall, George and Martha is a strong choice for kids. While it's not necessarily a preschool program, children 4 and up will certainly love these silly, endearing beasts. As long as parents explain that laughing at someone's size can be hurtful, this show will both entertain kids and reinforce what it means to be a good friend.
Other shows that get laughs include Jakers, Rubbadubbers, and Yoko! Jakamoko! Toto!.
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