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Shelldon

(Rated TV-Y7, Children, cartoons, & animation, Where to watch: NBC)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 4, age appropriate for kids over 6; suggested age 7.
  • Is it any good?

    2.0
  • Common Sense says

    Oddball characters overshadow messages in floundering show.

Themes in this show include:   friendship

Why We Rated This on for Ages 7 and Up

The good stuff

  • Educational value:

    Shelldon’s experiences remind kids that interpersonal conflict is a fact of life and offer some examples for coping with similar troubles.
  • Messages:

    In each story, Shelldon and his friends learn important lessons like respect for others, self-confidence, and effective communication. 
  • Role models:

    Adults are a strong presence throughout the show, and Shelldon often turns to his parents, teachers, and other role models for guidance when he’s not sure how to solve a problem. On the downside, some of the other characters aren't as exemplary -- including one who likes to pick on his peers.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence & scariness:

    Not an issue.
  • Sexy stuff:

    Not an issue.
  • Language:

    Some name-calling, like “dweeb.”
  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Shelldon

Parents need to know that the characters in this underwater-set series are a quirky group of aquatic creatures with extreme personalities, including a few who are chronically grouchy/rude and at least one who picks on and intimidates his peers. Although the main characters deal with issues that kids will easily relate to (wishing to be the team MVP and coping with a bully, for instance), and the solutions always send messages about self-image, friendship, and respect, ultimately much of the show's positive content is lost amid the oddities of the characters themselves.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about how Shelldon's life compares to that of real-life kids. Kids: Can you relate to his issues with friends and family members? What problems did he have to overcome? Who did he turn for help? What did you learn from his experiences?
  • Have you ever seen real-life versions of these sea creatures? How accurate do you think the characters are? Is it important to be true to life in animation? Why or why not?
  • How does this series compare to some of your favorite shows or movies? What makes something a “good” show to you? Which are your favorites?

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Our Members Say

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Most Recent Reviews

  1. I rate this title on for age 6 and give it 5.0
    My concerns are:
    • Excessive consumerism

    • My highlights are:
    • Educational

    Wonderful series. It includes both entertaining and educational values.

  2. I rate this title on for age 5 and give it 5.0
    My concerns are:
    • Excessive consumerism

    • My highlights are:
    • Educational

    Give an educational value, especially for global warmings. Wonderful series.

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