Chuck Vanderchuck's Something Something Explosion

 Review

Common Sense Media says

Web series' likable characters make music lessons rock.
greenON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age.
yellowPAUSE: Know your child; some content
may not be right for some kids.
redOFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age.
not for kidsNOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age.

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Quality
 
Sometimes media can be age appropriate but a real waste of time. Our star rating assesses the media's overall quality.

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Parents say

Not yet rated

Kids say

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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that Chuck Vanderchuck's Something Something Explosion is a fun music education site that teaches kids how to appreciate the basics of music by studying a different genre each month, beginning with salsa. Garage band leader Chuck Vanderchuck and his sidekick, Ramona, ask kids to complete different activities that teach rhythm, songwriting, instrument identification, and more to help them get ready for their next gig. Genres will include Jazz, Rock, Reggae, and Country.

  • This site promotes the idea that music education can be much more fun than just learning the notes on a scale and practicing the piano for an hour every day after school. Chuck and sidekick Ramona are dressed in a stereotypical musician "look." It might be helpful to send the message that musicians don't all need to look the part to enjoy creating music.
  • Not applicable.
  • Not applicable.
  • Not applicable.
  • The "PBS Kids Go!" logo is the only brand found on this site.
  • To create a login, kids must provide only a username and password. PBS Kids sites do not collect personally identifiable information from kids to register. Email address may only be collected for special features such as contests, questions, and e-cards. No parental controls, but an excellent parent primer for this site is provided on PBS Parents. Click on "Parents" on Chuck's main page.

Is it any good?

 

It's a joy to see music, songwriting, and ear training taught in such an
accessible and effective style online for elementary school-age kids. Chuck and Ramona are likable characters who expertly talk kids through the instructions for games that include rather challenging music skills such as guessing instrument combinations; writing Mad Lib-style lyrics; and matching rhythms to ones played on pots and pans and other kitchen tools. Games have three levels from which to choose. The videos and other features are also top-notch. Once again, PBS Kids provides a site that kids will enjoy and parents can feel good about. 


Explore, discuss, enjoy

  • Families can talk about what role music plays in your family. Does your child like your taste in music? Do you like his or hers? How can you learn to appreciate each other's music and expand your playlists together? Read Common Sense Media's Music and Your Kids Tipsheet. It's not too early to set guidelines around music choices.

  • Talk about stereotypes surrounding musicians and singers. Do all musicians have to dress strangely, sing about taboo topics, and act silly on stage? Read the Parent Advice Tipsheet: Lady Gaga and Our Kids for information about kids listening to or emulating highly sexualized pop singers.


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Genre:Educational

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