Parents' Guide to

Arthur

By Betsy Wallace, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 5+

A thoughtful cartoon for kids to grow up on.

TV PBS Kids' Animation 1996
Arthur Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

Community Reviews

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age 5+

Based on 51 parent reviews

MuggleMama22
MuggleMama22 Adult
June 23, 2021
age 3+

Greatest Children's Show on Television

I am extremely selective with the shows that my my children are allowed to watch. Arthur is one show that I don't mind them binging. Every episode is wholesome and entertaining. The creators of Arthur continue to create episodes that reflect real situations that real children are facing- a loved one being diagnosed with cancer, losing one's home to a natural disaster, having a classmate with autism or a nut allergy... I could go on and on. Arthur also does a great job of modeling positive social-emotional skills. After 25 years, this show is still wonderfully relevant. I am so thankful that it is still on the air.

This title has:

Great messages
Great role models
1 person found this helpful.
Is I.
Is I. Adult
April 23, 2023
age 2+

This title has:

Great messages
Great role models
See all 51 parent reviews

What's the Story?

The 8-year-old title character of the animated series ARTHUR is a sweet, curious kid with more than his share of self-consciousness. He shares insecurities, adventures, and the spotlight with a varied cast of friends and family members. Although technically Arthur is an aardvark and his friends are other kinds of animals, they act just like real people. Based on the book series by Marc Brown, Arthur premiered in 1996 and is a recipient of the George Foster Peabody Award and multiple Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Children's Animated Program.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (51 ):
Kids say (126 ):

Just as Arthur is a smart boy with lots of playful energy, the show is both educational and lighthearted, weaving themes in so well that they seem to result from -- rather than instigate -- the story. Viewers of Arthur will find demonstrations of solving problems creatively, appreciating differences, and other lessons on display. Situations resolve creatively rather than predictably. In one episode, for example, Arthur's smart friend, Brain, refuses to go to a birthday party at a water park, and the kids get mad and accuse him of being stuck up. Arthur is torn between sticking by his friend and sticking with the group. Rather than choosing sides, he investigates and figures out that Brain has a fear of water. Brain doesn't get over his fear of water -- instead, the episode helps viewers see that it's okay to be afraid of something and admit to your fears.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about sibling struggles in Arthur. How can brothers and sisters work out their differences? Do Arthur and DW have a good relationship? How is it like your kids' relationship with their siblings? How is it different?

  • What are some of the lessons that Arthur learns in the show? Does he handle them in a realistic way?

  • How do the characters in Arthur demonstrate gratitude and integrity? Why are these important character strengths?

  • If you love this show, try listening to the podcast: The Arthur Podcast

TV Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

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