 | 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. |
Martha Speaks
- PBS Kids
- Genre: Educational
Common Sense Media says
Chatty canine's vocab lessons are fun for kids.
Parents say
QUALITY
Kids say
QUALITY
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this animated series based on books by Susan Meddaugh expands preschoolers' vocabulary by introducing complex words ("remedy," "opinion," and "deserted," to name a few) and incorporating the words' meanings into the characters' dialogue. Since the show centers on a pet dog who gains the ability to speak after she's accidentally fed alphabet soup, kids may need to be reminded that it's not a good idea to give human food to pets in real life.
What's the story?
MARTHA SPEAKS is based on Susan Meddaugh series of kids' books about a beloved family dog that gains the ability to talk after she eats alphabet soup and the letters are diverted from her stomach to her brain. Now graced with the gift of gab, Martha (voiced by Tabitha St. Germain) is eager to share her many opinions with anyone who will listen. That's all well and good until Martha's inexperience with the social intricacies of talking -- like when to stop! -- gets her into some hilariously sticky situations, and her 10-year-old human, Helen, must teach her the responsibilities that accompany her new skill.
Is it any good?
Who doesn't love a story about talking animals? It's always fun to see the world through their eyes, and Martha's no exception. Kids will quickly fall in love with the charming yellow canine at the heart of this series because she's fun-loving and excited to learn new things. What's more, kids will probably relate to her ups and downs as she discovers there's a lot more to responsible communication than just saying whatever you want whenever you feel like it.
From an educational perspective, Martha Speaks does a good job of exposing kids to new vocabulary. Four new words related to the story's theme are introduced in each segment; the new material is reinforced with a brief recap at the end. The show also makes an effort to weave in positive messages about qualities like self-confidence, friendship, and civic responsibility -- all great lessons for young kids.
Explore, discuss, enjoy
Families can talk about communication. Before Martha could speak, how did she communicate her needs to her family? Do you think they were able to understand her? How would you communicate if you couldn't talk? Have you ever gotten into trouble because of something you've said? What did you learn from the situation? What does Martha learn about when to share her opinions? Can you think of a time when it might be better to not give your opinion?
- Show:
- All members
- Parents
- Teens & kids
Parent of 17 year old
October 23, 2009
AGE
Martha Speaks is funny but at the same time is incredibly stupid and it is just too happy. Martha even told her grandfather that she hoped he'd die. This show is very unrealistic too because there is a crazy ol' hag that needs to be put into the psycho house but instead she sounds off fake alarms in hospitals. Martha also talks due to alphabet soup going up into her brain. No offense, but wouldn't this make her, well, retarded? Bottom line, this show is harmless just very stupid. Nothing special. I wish my siblings didn't watch it as much as they do.
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Parent of 17 year old
August 15, 2009
AGE
i love when she dreams of becomeig a firehous dog
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Parent of 2 year old
January 19, 2011
AGE
It is entertaining and one I do not mind watching along (along with Arthur.)
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Educator and Parent of 4 and 13 year old
January 25, 2010
AGE
Really expands her vocabulary - look out SAT
We love it -- I love hearing my four year old use the vocabulary words that she just learned from the episode later in the day!
Family friendly - not too dorky - we all enjoy it even my 13 year old.
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Parent of 2, 10, and 14 year old
October 2, 2009
AGE
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Parent of 5 year old
February 11, 2010
AGE
Words, words, words
Fun for kids and adults too. Nice to introduce more words in a cohesive story.
FYI: My kid still won't eat alphabet soup though.
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Adult
December 31, 2009
AGE
Perfect for Everybody!
I love it! That Martha asks questions when she does not understand is wonderful. Children--and adults--should be encouraged to ask questions when they do not understand. Always answering the questions is good. Answering in language listeners can understand is good. The many human qualities of Martha make it easy to identify with her--happy, sad, helpful, sympathetic, inquisitive, smart, etc.
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Kid, 12 years old
February 22, 2009
AGE
my sister loves this
although my sister loves it this could drive me crazy. its ideal for preschoolers
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Parent of 5 year old
June 6, 2010
AGE
Great vocabulary builder
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Parent of an infant and 4 year old
April 16, 2010
AGE
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| Topics: | book characters, friendship, numbers and letters |
| TV rating: | TV-Y |
| Network: | PBS Kids |
| Cast: | Madeline Peters, Tabitha St. Germain, Vanessa Tomasino |
| Genre: | Educational |
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