Common Sense Media Review
Classic books make classy series for preschoolers.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 4+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Babar
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 , Animals ( Wild Animals )
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Empathy
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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