Parents' Guide to Going Nuts: Tales from the Squirrel World

TV Max Educational 2021
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Common Sense Media Review

Joly Herman By Joly Herman , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 5+

Gorgeous look into the varied lives of the humble squirrel.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 5+?

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Parent and Kid Reviews

What's the Story?

In GOING NUTS: TALES FROM THE SQUIRREL WORLD, the viewer is taken on a trip around the globe to explore the various breeds of squirrels and their close relatives. From the forests and high mountains of Europe, to the plains and deserts of the United States, the Kalahari, and the jungles of India, squirrels and their relatives have mastered their environment. This documentary uses high-resolution wildlife photography to observe squirrels doing what they do best: finding food. Whether stealing acorns from birds and other squirrels, or scavenging the remains of an Alaskan salmon, squirrels manage to adapt and survive wherever they go.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say : Not yet rated
Kids say : Not yet rated

Exquisite care taken to explore the lives of squirrels results in a top-shelf documentary. In Going Nuts: Tales from the Squirrel World, an acorn drops into a rainwater cache in a forest in Europe. The acorn sinks to the bottom of the clear pool, the spash reverberates in a perfect crown of water. A squirrel wants that acorn, scheming, stretching, even wading into the dread water to get it. The visual drama of the moment is slowed to a delectable pace, and the viewer is drawn deeply into this tiny forest drama.

There are some surprises, as the orange and black squirrels of India -- as big as the resident monkeys -- climb into view. The ninja moves of the Cape ground squirrel are pretty impressive to see as well. Kids will enjoy getting to know more about the animals that live in the tree in the backyard. Adults will appreciate the high-resolution wildlife photography. A reminder that even nature's most unassuming residents can fascinate us.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about perseverance in Going Nuts: Tales from the Squirrel World. How does perseverance help squirrels survive and adapt? In which ways do you persevere?

  • Prairie dogs and African squirrels work together to keep their families safe. How do you use teamwork to benefit your friends and family?

  • Are you curious about the wildlife in your neighborhood? What shows or books do you enjoy to help you learn more?

TV Details

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