Tools for this page
Print

Renovation Nation

(Rated TV-G, Reality TV, Starring Steve Thomas, Where to watch: Planet Green, DVD)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

    (Flash is loading. If this text does not disappear you need to install the latest flash version)

    Not age appropriate for kids under 5, age appropriate for kids over 8; suggested age 8.
  • Is it any good?

    3.0
  • Common Sense says

    Homes go green beautifully -- and affordably.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 8 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Offers renovation tips and showcases homes that are creatively eco-friendly to help people think about how they can make their own households greener. Presents the idea of going green as a viable and affordable option.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence & scariness:

    Not an issue.
  • Sexy stuff:

    Not an issue.
  • Language:

    Not an issue.
  • Consumerism:

    Occasionally spotlights guest houses and other structures that are uniquely green, but only to demonstrate their eco-friendliness.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Renovation Nation

Parents need to know that this series -- which suggests affordable ways to help a house meet green standards while being stylishly upgraded -- doesn't have any iffy content of note. That said, because it's primarily geared toward homeowners, it probably won't appeal to kids unless they're already interested in construction or learning more about living green.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about whether there any projects or renovations they can tackle to make their home more eco-friendly. Families can also discuss the media's increasing focus on living a greener lifestyle. Do you think TV shows like this one will encourage people to make more earth-friendly changes in their lives? Can people really learn how to renovate their homes by watching shows like this one?

Want more? Get Common Sense recommendations delivered to your inbox.

Our Members Say

Have you seen it? Review It!

  • What did you think about Renovation Nation?
  •  I think this show is

    for ages

  •  I also give it

  •  Any concerns?

  •  Any highlights?

  •  Love it? Hate it?

  • or to post a review

Most Recent Reviews

  1. Adult Reviewer
    Lives in Maine
    I rate this title on for age 17 and give it 5.0

    A fun and creative way to learn the art of green

    Although my little guys aren't too interested now...i'm sure they'll be when they get a bit older. I love the activity and dynamics of this show, as well as the humor. Construction is fairly boring, and green construction is even a bit more mind-bending - but Steve uses his quirky humor, easy going style and general likability to make it entertaining while learning about stuff we really need to know. And unlike other celebs touting this stuff - I believe him and believe he's putting this to use in his own life rather than to just make a buck.

More Great Stuff For Your Kids

  • New in Theaters

    Fantastic Mr. Fox

    Fantastic Mr. Fox

    Offbeat family adventure may charm adults more than kids.

  • Issue Spotlight

    Rules of the Road for Texting

    Rules of the Road for Texting

    Set limits long before they get behind the wheel.

  • Must See TV

    Glee

    Glee

    Edgy-but-quirky comedy's music, message will win teens over.

  • Issue Spotlight

    The 10 Most Violent Video Games (And 10 Alternatives)

    The 10 Most Violent Video Games (And 10 Alternatives)

    Our video game experts weigh in.

  • Download This

    "Wash Your Hands" (CD single)

    "Wash Your Hands" (CD single)

    "Acccchhhoooo!" A funny reminder to help kids fight the flu.

Give Us a Minute, Get a Lot of Common Sense!
  • Age-appropriate best bets for your kids
  • Weekly email alert with the latest picks, reviews & advice
  • Post your own reviews and share them with friends

This will never be displayed to others.
Your email will never be displayed to others.
Your password should be 6-10 characters long.
A screen name protects your privacy
To post a review or comment you must become a Common Sense Member. It's easy!

Set-up your account
This will never be displayed to others.
Your email will never be displayed to others.
Your password should be 6-10 characters long.

Choose a screen name
It will appear when you post your own reviews and recommendations.
A screen name protects your privacy

Tell us your children's ages
You'll see the movies, games, books, shows, music, and sites our editors select just for them. As your children get older, our picks will grow with them!Why we ask for this
We never display your children's names, (or nicknames) to anyone, but you. Providing your children's ages allows us to personalize information on our site, so you get better information, faster.
is
until
(optional)
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
Add another child

We can make Common Sense just right for you. With a little info about you and your family, you'll get the most out of our site.

Set-up your account
This will never be displayed to others.
Your email will never be displayed to others.
Your password should be 6-10 characters long.

Tell us your children's ages
You'll see the movies, games, books, shows, music, and sites our editors select just for them. As your children get older, our picks will grow with them!
Why we ask for this
We never display your children's names, (or nicknames) to anyone, but you. Providing your children's ages allows us to personalize information on our site, so you get better information, faster.
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
Add another child

Choose a screen name
It will appear when you post your own reviews and recommendations
A screen name protects your privacy
Register to add this school to your profile. You'll be able to see and share reviews from parents, teachers, and kids at your child's school.
I'm already a Common Sense member.
Kids under 13 must use a screen name