Parents need to know that this series encourages preschoolers' curiosity about the world around them and promotes finding answers through hands-on exploration. Sid and his friends are always excited to learn new things and solve pint-size scientific mysteries like "Why are my shoes shrinking?" and "Why do bananas get mushy?" The show -- which is co-produced by The Jim Henson Company -- introduces kids to the basics of scientific study, but they'll be so busy enjoying the show's use of song, dance, and humor that they may not even realize they're learning.

Families can talk about the kinds of things that kids like to learn about. Kids: Where do you get your information? What places can you visit to learn more? Which of the scientific methods that Sid learns about have you used? How do scientists use tools to help them discover things? What tools do you use? Families can take the opportunity to check out local museums, zoos, and aquariums to inspire their kids' interest in the sciences.