Common Sense Media Review
By Polly Conway
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Cute musical Seuss special about accepting change.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 3+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Dr. Seuss's The Sneetches
What's the Story?
IN DR. SEUSS'S THE SNEETCHES, Stella Sneedly (Amari McCoy), a Star Belly Sneetch, and her pet monkey Bean live happily with her family. Stella's grown up with the idea that Star Belly Sneetches are "better" than Moon Belly Sneetches, despite little evidence beyond "that's the way it is." She's invented a backpack that turns into a kite, but her family doesn't support the idea because "Star-Belly Sneetches don't fly." They love tradition, but Stella's ready for change. Cue new friend Pearl Puddlestuff, who's (gasp!) a Moon Belly Sneetch. Cute songs add to the story, which is narrated using Seuss's original words by a pelican named David.
Is It Any Good?
This upbeat adaptation of Seuss's original story is almost entirely new, but its messages remain. Dr. Seuss's The Sneetches is a sweet special that gently introduces kids to the more complex ideas of prejudice and bigotry, using fluffy yellow creatures who are unwilling to accept change...until a little girl changes their minds. It's nice to see two female protagonists helm this tale; Stella and Pearl are great role models as they push against tradition toward what they know is right. The songs are catchy but nothing super special, and families looking for the original story might be surprised by the new characters, but The Sneetches is a solid, timeless story that's always needed.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about differences. Are there any real differences between the types of Sneetches? Do you have any friends who are different from you?
Families can talk about the Sneetches. Why is it so hard for them to remember why Star Bellies and Moon Bellies should never meet? What happens when they're challenged on their ideas?
TV Details
- Premiere date : November 3, 2025
- Cast : Amari McCoy , Christopher Fitzgerald
- Network : Netflix
- Genre : Kids' Animation
- Topics : Activism ( Civic engagement , Gender equality , Racial justice ) , Animals , Arts , Book Characters , Friendship
- TV rating :
- Last updated : November 5, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
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.
See how we rate