Parents' Guide to Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ocean Adventures

TV PBS Educational 2006
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Common Sense Media Review

Ellen Dendy By Ellen Dendy , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 5+

Ocean adventures and research; great for kids.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 5+?

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Parent and Kid Reviews

What's the Story?

JEAN-MICHEL COUSTEAU'S OCEAN ADVENTURES focuses on saving the world's fragile marine life and habitats. Just as his father took viewers on fascinating expeditions aboard the famous Calypso, son Jean-Michel and his team of experts travel to remote locales and dive into unfamiliar waters on a quest to uncover the mysteries of the deep, targeting a specific marine locale that faces serious problems and explaining the relevant science in everyday terms. The team often meets on-site researchers who give guided tours and explain why the area and certain wildlife are threatened. In various episodes the team heads to coral reefs in Hawaii; follows formerly endangered gray whales on their dangerous migration route from Baja, California, to arctic waters; heads to French Polynesia and South Africa to swim with sharks; and explores America's fragile marine habitats.

Is It Any Good?

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

Jacques would be proud of his son (and grandchildren, who are also part of the team) -- this series is excellent. Cousteau and his team members are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including high-definition underwater cameras that capture stunning underwater scenes. Underwater rarities are revealed, and there's always that feeling of anticipation as divers brave the unknown of the deep blue. Biologists, ecologists, and various other experts share important scientific data in easy-to-understand terms. There's never been a more important time to educate kids and teens about preserving marine habitats and saving endangered species; luckily, Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ocean Adventures is a captivating, informative way to help do it.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the amazing diversity of marine life and the different research methods and technologies that Cousteau and his team use in Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ocean Adventures to gain a better understanding of underwater life. What was the mission of the expedition? What types of data did the team gather, and how did they go about getting it? Did they uncover important new information on the expedition, and, if so, what was it?

  • Why are Cousteau and his team worried about particular marine habitats (or creatures)? Why is it important to preserve marine wildlife and habitats?

  • How does Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ocean Adventures promote curiosity? Why is this an important character strength?

TV Details

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