Parents' Guide to Nate Is Late

TV Roku Channel Kids' Animation 2018
Nate Is Late TV: Nate check his watch as him and Malika run from various monsters and a big timer looms in the background.

Common Sense Media Review

Fernanda Camargo By Fernanda Camargo , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 7+

Fun buddy comedy is full of fantasy, thin on lessons.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 7+?

Any Positive Content?

  • Nate Is Late TV: Nate and Malika high five as they walk into the school corridor. Teacher is seen on the background, smiling.
  • Nate Is Late TV: Nate and Malika appear to be shrunken. They have their mouth open, looking scared at a giant insect.
  • Nate Is Late TV: Malika escapes from the carnivorous plant on a bicycle; Nate floats in the background in a butterfly costume.

Parent and Kid Reviews

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What's the Story?

NATE IS LATE follows best friends Nate and Malika, who meet every day on the way to school. Despite leaving with plenty of time, they stumble upon characters and situations needing their help. Equipped with the idea that there's always time to help others, Nate and Malika work together to outsmart fantastic creatures like gnomes, ghosts, or aliens and make it to school before it's too late.

Is It Any Good?

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

Despite good jokes and lots of heart, the show falls short of making a significant impact. Nate is Late is an enjoyable buddy comedy, but missed opportunities to further explore the theme of generosity and second chances make it less memorable. Still, it's an entertaining watch for younger kids who can enjoy the absurdities Nate and Malika face without expecting more nuanced storytelling.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the balance of fantasy and reality in Nate is Late. Characters attend a regular school, but are often late due to fantastic adventures. Their teacher has a hard time believing them. Encourage kids to consider the importance of believing in others and giving chances, even when their reasons might be unclear.

  • At times, Nate is too eager to solve the problem and acts impulsively, not listening to Malika. How does the outcome change when he takes time to consider and works together with his friend?

  • Nate and Malika are generous and always willing to help, even if it lands them in trouble at school. Discuss the benefits of helping others and encourage your child to think about the consequences of their actions -- even when done with good intentions.

TV Details

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Nate Is Late TV: Nate check his watch as him and Malika run from various monsters and a big timer looms in the background.

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