Babar

TV review by Deirdre Sheppard, Common Sense Media
Babar Poster Image

Common Sense says

age 4+

Classic books make classy series for preschoolers.

ION, NBC, qubo Kids' Animation 1989
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Parents say

age 5+

Based on 4 reviews

Kids say

age 7+

Based on 2 reviews

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A Lot or a Little?

The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.

Stands out for and .

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.

Community Reviews

Vincenzo
Vincenzo Adult
March 26, 2020
age 7+

First episode has gun violence

Excellent show! Note that in season 1, episode 1, Babar's mother is shown to be shot and killed by a hunter. This peril continues for much of the episode. Overall there are very positive messages, but my 5 yr old cried at that part!

This title has:

Great messages
Great role models
Too much violence
Jonathan S.
Jonathan S. Adult
February 6, 2020
age 4+

A childhood favourite that I would really recommend!

Don't listen to the SJW nonsense you're seeing in the parent's reviews, this show is a timeless classic, with endearing characters, character development, beautiful music, hilarity, etc. This is a gem that is not to be ignored. Those parts involving the hunter, in the beginning, is very close to the original books by Jean De Brunhoff. Of course, dark moments like those would be a thing, and I'd say the creative crew did the best possible job you can find in a children's cartoon such as this, that can still be enjoyed by adults alike with it the clever use of vocabulary (We'd have Pompadour to thank for that). I would most certainly share this show with my future children as well as not only having fun with the funny moments in the show, but also have meaningful discussions with them regarding what they would learn from it.

This title has:

Great messages
Great role models
See all 4 parent reviews

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

Our Editors Recommend

Character Strengths

Find more tv shows that help kids build character.

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  • Young girl staring at her dad
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Themes & Topics

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  • Cartoon picture of an elephant
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