Raising Sextuplets (WE)

common sense media says

Couple counts blessings amid chaos of toddlerhood.


parents & educators say

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this reality series is fine for general family viewing, but kids and tweens probably won't be too drawn to its content. The subject matter will resonate most with adults who have had their own kids and can relate to the Masches' struggles with doling out discipline, combining different parenting styles, and finding time for each other amid hectic schedules. On a positive note, the couple's affection and respect for each other stands out even as they muddle through the daunting tasks of managing their busy household. Note: In Sept. 2010, Bryan Masche was arrested for, among other things, threatening domestic violence. He and his wife subsequently separated. So far, none of these events have been included in the TV show, so our rating hasn't changed (yet).

Positive messages: Jenny and Bryan are a loving couple who lean on each other to manage the chaos of having six toddlers. Despite the nonstop noise and immense work it takes to raise their kids, they always strive to find the silver lining in their situation.
Violence & scariness: No violence, but Jenny very occasionally slaps a child’s hand to reprimand him or her for something. One episode centers on Jenny’s plans for plastic surgery, so there’s some discussion of the procedure and complications that arise.
Sexy stuff: Some mention of the fertility treatments that resulted in the sextuplets, and the babies’ diaper areas are sometimes visible during changes. Jenny and Bryan are very affectionate with each other (some kissing).
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.

More on Raising Sextuplets

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
  • Families can talk about reality TV. Do you think this show gives an accurate view of this family’s life? Are there any aspects of it that you think couldn’t be realistic?
  • How do you think reality TV affects our view of society and how we look at our own lives? Is it all in fun, or might there be consequences from our infatuation with this type of entertainment?
  • Families can also discuss how the Masches handle the challenges of their large family. How does their family lifestyle compare to your own?

What's the story?

What's the story?
When Jenny and Bryan Masche dreamed of having a baby, they couldn't have imagined that their hopes might be answered six times over. But that's just what happened when their sextuplets -- Savannah, Bailey, Grant, Cole, Molli, and Blake -- were born in 2007, and life for this loving couple hasn't been the same since. In RAISING SEXTUPLETS, the Masches share the moments of joy and chaos that come along with life with six energetic toddlers.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

Society's fascination with watching other people's lives gives birth to yet another reality series documenting the extreme circumstances of a family with multiples. For those familiar with series like Jon & Kate Plus 8, there are no surprises here, as most of the show chronicles how Bryan and Jenny manage the logistics of such a large family and work to make time for their own pursuits, too. The content is at different times engaging, funny, and heartwarming, and the Masches' parenting woes are relatable for parents of any number of kids.

The show's mere existence regenerates familiar issues that haunt reality TV as a whole, including the possibility of exploitation (the kids have no say in whether they're being filmed, after all) and the question of whether what's shown is truly is reality or just an act for the cameras. That said, there are some positive points about Raising Sextuplets, most notably the respectful relationship between Bryan and Jenny, who communicate their feelings without harsh words, respect each other's individuality, and support each other's personal goals. What's more, the show focuses on everyday events like celebrating holidays and enjoying an occasional dinner out -- rather than flaunting the special privileges that the family's celebrity affords them -- keeping the content on par with most viewers' experiences.

TV themes & details

TV Details
TV Rating: NR
Network: WE
Cast: Bryan Masche, Jenny Masche
Genre: Reality TV
Where to watch: WE

This review was written by Emily Ashby
 
 

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About our rating system
ON: Content is 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