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SciGirls (PBS)

common sense media says

Smart series ignites girls' interest in science and math.

parents & educators say
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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this exciting educational series strives to change how girls view traditionally male fields like engineering and technology by introducing viewers to real tween girls who are using their science prowess to explore -- and sometimes change -- the world. With topics that range from wind power to archaeology, there’s something here for every interest, and viewers will see scientific and math principles applied to real-life scenarios. The show has a strong web component, so be prepared for kids to ask to go online after watching. The series brims with strong messages about conflict resolution, teamwork, and respect for differences, making it an exceptional choice for this age group.

Educational value: Kids see the scientific process in action, from identifying a problem to studying data and exploring possible solutions. They also learn the importance of teamwork and mutual respect when working with others, and they get to see how a variety of ideas converge for a result that each person in the team can take pride in.
Positive messages: The show empowers girls to take an interest in traditionally male-dominated fields like math, science, and engineering. Each episode follows a team of girls as they use their knowledge of these disciplines to investigate the world around them and solve a problem related to it.
Positive role models: The featured girls are curious about the world, inspired to learn about how it works, and proactive about pitching in to make it a better place. They work with adult mentors (many of whom are female professionals in scientific fields), who teach and guide them without taking over the process, so the final result is a true reflection of the girls’ work. The show features a diverse range of girls.
Violence & scariness: Not applicable.
Sexy stuff: Not applicable.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: The show is tightly integrated with its partner website, which encourages girls to connect and share ideas with other science-minded tweens.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on SciGirls

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
  • Families can discuss the integrative nature of modern media. How do various branches of the media (TV, Internet, iPod, etc.) converge to keep us informed? How does this interconnectedness change how we absorb information? Are there any drawbacks to our high-tech world?
  • Tweens: What aspects of science interest you? What problems do you see around you that you think could be solved by science? What steps would you take to make that happen? What would the outcome be? 
  • Tweens: What do you want to be when you grow up? How will you use your knowledge and skills to help people? Do you have any mentors whom you admire? How might they and others help you achieve your goals?

What's the story?

What's the story?
SCIGIRLS showcases tween girls who are curious about the world and inspired to get out there and study it. Each episode follows a new group of girls as they delve into a science-minded question, gathering data and exploring possible solutions for the problem they face. Whether it’s engineering a large-scale puppet with moving parts or giving favorite recipes a healthy boost, these girls prove that they’re up to any challenge.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

In a media environment that bombards tween girls with iffy messages about body image and self-worth, SciGirls makes every effort to change how girls perceive their place in the world. The show's real-life stars are vibrant, curious explorers who believe in their abilities to change the problems they see around them, and their interactions with female professionals in scientific fields will open viewers’ eyes to the array of careers available to them. Plus, watching the girls interact with each other offers examples of respectful conflict resolution and the strength that diversity brings to team projects.

Because the show’s companion website has a strong presence within the series (the episodes are unified by an animated character who taps into the girls’ adventures via the website), viewers will be encouraged to explore the site to create their own pages and share ideas with like-minded peers. Parents may want to talk with tweens about Internet safety before turning them loose to explore all of the resources the site has to offer.

TV themes & details

TV Details
TV Rating: NR
Network: PBS
Genre: Educational
Where to watch: PBS
This review was written by Emily Ashby
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

GeodeGem
teen, 15 years old
4
 
Siked for SciGirls!
I think this show should be on more often, its sweet, intertaning, funny, and educational. There needs to be more shows like this and they should actually be on more. This show is so cool! It actually got be excited about math and science, seriously!
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helped me decide (13) | had useful details (15) | read my mind (16)
stuhlly
parent of 8 and 11 year old
7
 
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helped me decide (12) | had useful details (13) | read my mind (10)
MADLover
kid, 11 years old
3
 
Cyco SiGirls
...okay?
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helped me decide (10) | had useful details (12) | read my mind (9)

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ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
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