Babar
Common Sense says
- ION, NBC, qubo
- Kids' Animation
- 1989
Parents say
Kids say
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The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that Babar is a gentle cartoon series is based on the classic children's books by Jean de Brunhoff. Babar is a good role model who promotes sharing and getting along with others. Although the show is an ideal pick for preschoolers, most kids will probably outgrow it by the time they're 7.
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User Reviews
Quite a lot of violence.
Fine for 5 and Older
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What's the story?
BABAR chronicles the adventures of author Jean de Brunhoff's young elephant king and his royal family. Although he lives in a magnificent palace, Babar (voiced by Gordon Pinsent) is always eager to make a friend, regardless of their economic and social status. Babar shares his days with his wife, Queen Celeste (Dawn Greenhalgh), his children, and friends like the Old Lady (Elizabeth Hanna) and Cornelius (Chris Wiggins). He likes nothing better than reminiscing about his childhood days and recalling adventures like making friends from the circus.
Is it any good?
Many shows adapted from books tend to move at a slow pace, but this one provides enough adventure and silliness to keep even the most active preschooler engaged. As an extra plus, the music is beautifully orchestrated.
Babar exemplifies the lesson that all of us are the same on the inside. These elephants hold their trunks high, but they also know that money doesn't conquer all. Many kids' shows depict well-off characters as villainous and/or gluttonous -- Babar shows kids that wealth doesn't necessarily equate to greed. Babar fans should definitely check out De Brunhoff's books as well.
Talk to your kids about ...
Families can talk about basic concepts having to do with money and class in Babar. What does it mean to be rich? What does it mean to be poor? How can you tell that Babar is rich?
Families can also discuss the plot specifics of each episode. How did Babar decide to do what he did? Who helped him? Who tried to stop him? Why?
How do the characters on Babar demonstrate compassion and empathy? Why are these important character strengths?
TV details
- Premiere date: January 3, 1989
- Cast: Elizabeth Hanna, Gavin MacGrath, Gordon Pinsent
- Networks: ION, NBC, qubo
- Genre: Kids' Animation
- Topics: Book Characters, Friendship, Wild Animals
- Character Strengths: Compassion, Empathy
- TV rating: TV-Y
- Available on: DVD, Streaming
Character Strengths
Themes & Topics
For kids who love preschool TV
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Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.