Common Sense Media Review
By Emily Ashby
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Endearing remake of classic has a galaxy's worth of charm.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 3+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Clangers
What's the Story?
On a bumpy blue moon in distant space lives a family of pink mousy creatures called CLANGERS, who reside inside their hollow world and come and go aboveground by way of trash can lids that serve as doors. There's Tiny, a kindhearted, curious tot; her older brother, Small, who's always full of new ideas; and their parents and their Granny. As they explore their world, they're presented with dilemmas they must solve together, using whistles and other sounds to communicate. Kindly neighbors such as the Soup Dragon, whose green soup concoctions are the Clangers' favorite food, are always willing to help.
Is It Any Good?
Narrated by William Shatner, this is a captivating series whose characters demonstrate the value of cooperation, compassion, and strong family relationships. Every story has a gentle message that's on par with issues young kids are starting to experience, from getting along with a sibling to seeing a challenge through to its end. As the stories evolve at the hands of the endearing characters, viewers see the importance of perseverance and lending a helping hand to friends in need.
In a programming climate that's dominated by CGI, Clangers' throwback stop-motion-animation style is very easy on the senses. The characters are peaceful to watch, and their sound-based language is soothing to hear. With Shatner providing the narration, viewers of all ages can settle in for a virtual read-aloud experience that's clever and heartfelt.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the Clangers' relationships. How do they show that they care about each other? Do they ever disagree? How do they resolve issues when they arise? Why is it important to show kindness to others?
Why do you think the show's creators made the characters speak in sounds? Did you have any trouble following the story because of that, or was the narration sufficient?
Kids: Do you like the show's animation style? Why do you think the creators chose this animation style for this show?
How do the characters in Clangers demonstrate compassion, curiosity, and empathy? Why are these important character strengths?
TV Details
- Premiere date : June 20, 2015
- Cast : William Shatner
- Networks : Universal Kids , CBeebies
- Genre : Kids' Animation
- Topics : Adventures , Family Stories ( Siblings )
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Curiosity , Empathy
- TV rating :
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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