| ON: Content is age-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. | |
| NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Parents need to know that this unimpressive, curriculum-based preschool program aims to teach kids social skills, language arts, and math through dances, silly songs, and colorful skits.
Hosted by mild, friendly Gina D, GINA D'S KIDS CLUB revolves around a group of magical friends who live together in a small town. Combining live-action skits with puppetry and 3D animation, Gina D and her friends Pierre, TV Ted, and Simon Wannabe sing and dance their way through lessons about friendship, self development, self esteem, and even math and reading. They also speak directly to viewers, inviting them to join in.
While the show is based on a wholesome educational curriculum, Gina D and her friends can be quite silly and off the wall. Despite all of its action and the dazzle of its colorful special effects, the series lacks that special something that would make it stand out among other preschool programs. The characters in particular aren't very likable (the baker lady is actually a gruff man in an old-fashioned homemaker outfit), and the puppets are poorly done.
Some have said that Gina D is likely to take the place of Mr. Rogers. But there's really no comparison. Gina D's Kids Club may keep your child's interest, but its overly sappy content and zany characters may have you changing the channel. The recipe for success is there, but the ingredients -- the acting, the sets, the puppet design -- could be a lot better.
Families can talk about the show's various social lessons, including how to be a good listener, the importance of being patient, believing in yourself, and learning how to be a good friend. Questions like these -- Why is it important to share? How can people express themselves kindly when we they're hurt? Why is it important to consider others' feelings? -- are good discussion-starters.
| Topics: | magic and fantasy, friendship, music and sing-along, puppets |
| TV rating: | TV-Y |
| Network: | Syndicated |
| Cast: | Austin Blay, Gina Mouery, Tim Trombitas |
| Genre: | Educational |