| 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 boy-girl crushes are explored and that some kissing and hugging is involved. Also, some of the characters are stereotypes and not necessarily portrayed in a realistic way. However, the kids in the show are generally portrayed as caring, respectful, and fairly mature for their age. The five main characters are ethnically diverse and are good role models for girls because they're independent thinkers and deal with challenges head-on.
W.I.T.C.H. is an entertaining and wholesome animated series that follows five schoolgirls as they face not only the everyday challenges of teen life, but also the responsibilities that come with having magical powers. Junior high students Will, Irma, Taranee, Cornelia, and Hay Lin (their initials form the acronym W.I.T.C.H.) discover that they possess magical powers and have been chosen as the Guardians of the Veil, a portal between the real world and a magical world called Meridian. Will, the new girl on the block, is the keeper of the Heart of Kandrakhar, a sort of amulet that gives the five friends their superpowers. Good vs. evil is a central theme of the show, as the girls fight to keep their world safe from the dangers lurking on the other side of the portal -- all while learning to balance schoolwork, activities, and relationships.
While interactions among the characters can lean toward the melodramatic at times, the show makes an effort to portray teens in a positive (though perhaps not always realistic) light. The main characters set a good example by pulling together to overcome obstacles, whether as superheroes or regular teens; they also generally show respect for one another, despite occasional teasing. Young viewers will relate to much of the dialogue and to situations such as school trips, birthday parties, and first crushes. The superpower element adds an exciting dimension to the show.
Families can talk about the importance of working as a team. Which real-life activities at school help promote teamwork? They can also address the show's stereotypes. When the girls tease Cornelia for being a "dumb blonde," are they taking it too far? How would you react to such teasing? Another topic of discussion could be how to use power responsibly. What would you do if you were given a special power? How would you use it for good? Finally, families can talk about how to handle a crush. What's a good way to let someone know you like them? If you don't really like someone who has a crush on you, how can you be honest without hurting their feelings?
| Topics: | magic and fantasy, friendship |
| TV rating: | TV-Y7 |
| Network: | Disney Channel |
| Cast: | Candi Milo, Kelly Stables |
| Genre: | Kids' Animation |