Common Sense Media Review
By Joly Herman
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Gentle, age-appropriate viewing for preschoolers.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 3+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 45 parent reviews
Parents say this show is a beloved classic that offers gentle, calm storytelling and positive messages, making it an ideal choice for young viewers. However, some episodes contain themes like death and intense moments that may be troubling for sensitive children, so parents should preview content before viewing with their kids.
- calming storytelling
- positive messages
- episodes to preview
- gentle animation
- suitable for young kids
- classic and beloved
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 25 kid reviews
Kids say this show is sweet and calming, making it perfect for younger viewers, and many remember watching it fondly during their childhood. While some appreciate its gentle stories and good role models, a few critiques mention the show's simplistic premise and its appeal primarily to preschoolers.
- calming atmosphere
- positive role models
- nostalgia factor
- educational value
- gentle storytelling
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
LITTLE BEAR was introduced to the public as a collaborative effort between author Else Holmelund and legendary illustrator Maurice Sendak. First appearing on television in 1995, Little Bear's mixture of playfulness and heart gained a healthy following.
Is It Any Good?
Animal lovers will enjoy the characters who pal around with Little Bear: There's Cat, who can be crafty around baby birds; Duck, who loves potato salad; Owl, who can at times feel insecure; and Lucy, a little girl who plays with the bunch during the summertime. Mama Bear and Papa Bear trust Little Bear to play with his friends unattended in the forest. Perhaps this reminder of times gone by -- when playing croquet, having picnics, and swimming in the local watering hole were part of daily life -- is the most attractive aspect of this series. If Little Bear inspires families to enjoy such pastoral pleasures, then all the better.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what it would be like to play outside all the time like Little Bear and his friends do. What would life be like without television, video games, and computers?
TV Details
- Premiere date : November 6, 1995
- Cast : Janet-Laine Green , Kristin Fairlie , Tara Strong
- Network : Nick Jr.
- Genre : Kids' Animation
- Topics : Book Characters , Friendship , Animals ( Wild Animals )
- TV rating :
- Last updated : January 6, 2026
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