| 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 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).
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.
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.
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?
| TV rating: | NR |
| Network: | WE |
| Cast: | Bryan Masche, Jenny Masche |
| Genre: | Reality TV |