Little Bear - TV-Y
TV Rating: TV-Y
Network: Noggin Cast: Tara Strong, Kristin Fairlie, Janet-Laine Green
Genre: Children, Cartoons, & Animation
Available on: 
DVD
Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this series is gentle, conscientious, and family oriented. The pace is perfect for young viewers, and the plot is appropriately concise. Though the educational content is sparse, the characters' utter involvement with nature is a welcome variance from the computer-and-robot themes that dominate so many cartoons for children. Reading Homelund's book and comparing it with the TV series might be a way to delve further into this idyllic realm.
Families can discuss what it would be like to play outside all the time like Little Bear and his friends do. What would life be like without television, video games, and computers?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Joly Herman
LITTLE BEAR was introduced to the public as a collaborative effort between author Else Holmelund and legendary illustrator Maurice Sendak.
First appearing on television in 1995, Little Bear's mixture of playfulness and heart gained a healthy following. Animal lovers will enjoy the characters who pal around with Little Bear: there's Cat, who can be crafty around baby birds; Duck, who loves potato salad; Owl, who can at times feel insecure; and Lucy, a little girl who plays with the bunch during the summertime.
Mama Bear and Papa Bear trust Little Bear to play with his friends unattended in the forest. Perhaps this reminder of times gone by -- when playing croquet, having picnics, and swimming in the local watering hole were part of daily life -- is the most attractive aspect of this series. If Little Bear inspires families to enjoy such pastoral pleasures, then all the better.
Parents and kids might also want to check out Mustard Pancakes or Franny's Feet.
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