Parents' Guide to

Classical Baby

By Emily Ashby, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 2+

Whimsical series blends music and the arts.

TV HBO Kids Musical TV 2005
Classical Baby Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

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

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age 2+

Based on 5 parent reviews

jessicab46360
jessicab46360 Adult
October 16, 2018
age 2+

My 14 month old loves this show and has since she was a baby

Very cute animations and the songs are nice. My baby learned how to dance from this. Sometimes I watch by myself just for relaxation. It's nice for younger kids who may not be able to understand a show like Sesame Street or Mr. Rogers yet. I wish there were more episodes. We just bought them on on demand so they are still available on the TV or you can get them on ebay new or used if you have a DVD player.

This title has:

Great messages
Nicole L.
Nicole L. Parent of 1-year-old
June 21, 2018
age 2+

A breath of fresh air

I absolutely LOVE this show! I’m a single, stay at home mom of a 14mo old son. I have always been adamant about my son not having TV time at this age but inevitably there have been instances where I’m in dire need of a distraction for him. Thank heavens for Classical Baby! I feel as though I’m introducing the arts in a fun way. I use this show to help wind him down after too much excitement or so I can occasionally grab a much needed moment to myself. We also have fun dancing around the house together while it’s on and now my son even dances to it without me! The music is wonderful, the animation is adorable, and I have zero guilt about putting on the TV for my son. I honestly can’t recommend or praise this show enough. My only complaint is that we wish there was more seasons/episodes!

This title has:

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What's the Story?

CLASSICAL BABY pairs selections of classical music with images of famous artwork and original animation plays on a stage at the command of a baby conductor and in front of an audience of cartoon animals. Often the images act out or interpret through dance a story that complements the composition, and some episodes incorporate poetry as well. The likes of Bach, Puccini, and Tchaikovsky are represented in the show's score, and a variety of dance and art styles are seen onstage.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: (5):
Kids say: Not yet rated

Classical Baby was the recipient of multiple programming awards for its inventive presentation of classical arts for youngsters, but its target audience is the prime reason not everyone is sold on its value. The show is geared toward babies -- precisely the group the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends not engage in screen time of any kind. So, although its overall appeal isn't in doubt, its suitability for its self-determined audience might be.

Of course, babies aren't the only ones who can watch the show, and preschoolers can start to appreciate the fine details in the segments' use of color, shapes, and rhythm that younger ones will miss. Because there's no dialogue, the show welcomes your own discussion of what you and your kids see and hear as classical sights and sounds blend. The bottom line? This is a great introduction to music and art appreciation for you and your young ones to share, provided it adheres to your family's rules about screen time.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how music makes us feel. Kids: Did any of the pieces make you feel happy? Sad? Sleepy? Excited? What are some of your favorite songs? Do they ever inspire you to sing along or to dance?

  • Kids: What rules does your family have about watching TV and movies? Are there shows that are off-limits? If so, why? Who are your favorite TV characters? Do you learn anything from them?

  • Families can discuss their favorite screen-free activities. Play active games such as charades, or, for quieter times, read a favorite book together. Because this show introduces viewers to a host of musical pieces, choose one or two to listen to in their entirety.

TV Details

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