Parents' Guide to Maya & Miguel

TV PBS Kids' Animation 2004
Maya & Miguel Poster Image

Common Sense Media Review

By Ginny Pelley , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 5+

Engaging cartoon teaches cultural diversity.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 5+?

Any Positive Content?

  • Maya & Miguel TV: Scene #1
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Parent and Kid Reviews

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age 7+

Based on 3 parent reviews

 

 

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age 6+

Based on 20 kid reviews

Kids say that this show evokes strong feelings of nostalgia for some, as many remember it fondly from their childhood, while others find the content disturbing, citing issues such as negative portrayals of mental health. Additionally, the humor, character voices, and frequent plot issues received criticism, leading many to label it as unwatchable, yet a handful of reviews commend its lessons on friendship and cultural diversity, marking it as suitable for children despite mixed opinions.

  • nostalgia
  • mental health
  • annoying characters
  • positive role models
  • cultural diversity
  • mixed opinions
Summarized with AI
 

 

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What's the Story?

Animated twins MAYA & MIGUEL introduce viewers to their family, friends, culture, and the Spanish language in this PBS series. In addition to language skills, the show teaches kids about cultural diversity in a fun, engaging way.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say ( 3 ):
Kids say ( 20 ):

The mostly English dialogue in is peppered with Spanish words and phrases in a way that's totally natural, teaching kids about language while keeping them thoroughly entertained. In one episode, for example, cousin Tito, who's learning English, is "nervioso" about trying out for the school play, which is adapted from a Mayan folk tale. With Maya's help, Tito gets through his audition, only to discover that during the production, he's crippled by stage fright without Maya on stage with him to lend support. Maya devises ingenious and humorous ways to get on stage to help her cousin, who eventually discovers that he's found the confidence to perform without Maya's help.

This well-written show doesn't forget the parents who are viewing with their kids. Some things may fly over young viewers' heads, but Maya & Miguel is infused with such heart and good humor that even its youngest fans won't ever feel like they're missing anything.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the different cultures and languages presented in Maya & Miguel. Does the show spark an interest in kids to learn more about their own family background?

  • What do kids think about the importance of family and being a good friend?

  • How do the characters in Maya & Miguel demonstrate communication and empathy? Why are these important character strengths?

TV Details

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

Maya & Miguel Poster Image

What to Watch Next

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