Bob the Builder (http://www.bobthebuilder.com/usa/index.asp?origref=)
common sense media says
Irresistible for fans of the show; ads aren't too obnoxious.
parents & educators say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this site has advertising (which is clearly labeled) and Bob the Builder products are promoted throughout. But for young fans of Bob the Builder it offers a good balance of passive entertainment and interactive learning, as well as episode clips.
Educational value:
Basic activities, like matching games and coloring pages can be educational, especially if a parent is present to ask questions and point things out. Probably the most educational part of the site is the projects department which teaches sequencing through a step-by-step building process that kids control.
Violence:
Not applicable.
Sex:
Not applicable.
Language:
Not applicable.
Consumerism:
There are icons on the top of each page that represent other PBS shows, like Thomas the Tank Engine and Agelina Ballerina. Clicking on any of these characters takes you to their respective Web sites. On every page there is an advertisment for a "free download" trial of Bob the Builder's newest CD-ROM game. These ads are clearly labeled as an "advertisment." Promos that are less clearly marked can be found within the site under the "Meet the Team" department, where you can scroll through a list of products and get information on a slew of products, everything from underwear to the Bob the Builder Live Show.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
Not applicable.
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