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Renovation Nation (Planet Green)

common sense media says

Homes go green beautifully -- and affordably.

parents & educators say
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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this series -- which suggests affordable ways to help a house meet green standards while being stylishly upgraded -- doesn't have any iffy content of note. That said, because it's primarily geared toward homeowners, it probably won't appeal to kids unless they're already interested in construction or learning more about living green.

Positive messages: Offers renovation tips and showcases homes that are creatively eco-friendly to help people think about how they can make their own households greener. Presents the idea of going green as a viable and affordable option.
Violence & scariness: Not applicable.
Sexy stuff: Not applicable.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: Occasionally spotlights guest houses and other structures that are uniquely green, but only to demonstrate their eco-friendliness.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Renovation Nation

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about whether there any projects or renovations they can tackle to make their home more eco-friendly. Families can also discuss the media's increasing focus on living a greener lifestyle. Do you think TV shows like this one will encourage people to make more earth-friendly changes in their lives? Can people really learn how to renovate their homes by watching shows like this one?

What's the story?

What's the story?
RENOVATION NATION shows viewers how homes can be renovated to support a greener lifestyle. Handyman/This Old House host Steve Thomas offers affordable do-it-yourself tips on how to "greenovate" a home and live a more eco-friendly lifestyle. He also meets with eco-sensitive homeowners and builders who are making the choice to go green, spotlighting unique and creative homes, guest houses, and other structures to help inspire those who want to build a greener home.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
From building and using recycled furniture and fixtures to passive cooking, audiences are reminded that it doesn't always take a lot of money to meet green standards while upgrading a home. Thomas makes that point clear by consistently talking about energy-efficient materials and designs during the renovation process, pointing out how these choices lessen the burden on the earth's already shrinking reserve of natural resources. He also focuses on how aesthetically beautiful many eco-efficient spaces are -- a fact that's likely to make the choice to greenovate much more desirable to homeowners.

While Renovation Nation isn't particularly exciting, it offers viewers interested in renovating their homes a chance to see that they can do so without having a negative impact on the environment -- or their wallets. Best of all, it presents eco-friendly building as a truly viable option for anyone. Kids may not be particularly drawn to the series, but for those thinking about building green now or in the future, it's a great choice.

TV themes & details

TV Details
TV Rating: TV-G
Network: Planet Green
Cast: Steve Thomas
Genre: Reality TV
Where to watch: Planet Green
This review was written by Melissa Camacho
 
 

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GreenDi
adult
 
A fun and creative way to learn the art of green
Although my little guys aren't too interested now...i'm sure they'll be when they get a bit older. I love the activity and dynamics of this show, as well as the humor. Construction is fairly boring, and green construction is even a bit more mind-bending - but Steve uses his quirky humor, easy going style and general likability to make it entertaining while learning about stuff we really need to know. And unlike other celebs touting this stuff - I believe him and believe he's putting this to use in his own life rather than to just make a buck.
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ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
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