Common Sense Media Review
By Mandie Caroll
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Toy-based show has smart girls, adventure.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 5+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Polly Pocket
What's the Story?
In POLLY POCKET, kid genius Polly (voiced by Emily Tennant) fixes her grandmother's long-broken locket and discovers that it can shrink her down to four inches tall. When she shrinks her best friends Lila (Shannon Chan-Kent) and Shani (Kazumi Evans), they discover a world of tiny fun, but also a big responsibility -- to stop the nefarious Griselle (Patricia Drake) from using the locket to control the entire town.
Is It Any Good?
This product-based, moderately entertaining series has female characters who mostly avoid stereotypes, but the formulaic plot lines begin to feel repetitive rather quickly. Parents will likely appreciate the role models and some of the messages in Polly Pocket. Polly is a kid genius who's skilled at inventing high-tech gadgets, Shani is a super-smart sci-fi geek, and fashion-obsessed Lila uses her style knowledge to solve problems. The girls are supportive and kind toward one another, and they show growth and understanding to do the right thing.
The villains are so villainous that they come off as bumbling, so, despite various kidnappings and attempts at controlling the town, nothing is ever too scary. Kids always know that Polly and her friends will save the day. Though there's no overt advertising, it'll be hard for adults, at least, to avoid the reality that this is basically one long commercial for the dolls. But for kids who like the toys or enjoy a comfortable formula, this is a safe bet without concerns about too much violence or language.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the girls' unique talents in Polly Pocket. What does each one bring to the team as they solve problems and stop Griselle? Have you ever solved a problem using your own unique skills and talents?
How do you feel about how the girls initially treat Nicolas? How do their feelings about him change over time? Does Nicolas change as well?
This show is based on a doll you can buy in stores. Why do you think the company that makes the dolls also wanted to make a show? How do you feel about shows like this?
TV Details
- Premiere date : July 8, 2018
- Cast : Emily Tennant , Shannon Chan-Kent , Kazumi Evans , Ellen Kennedy , Patricia Drake
- Networks : Universal Kids , Discovery Family Channel
- Genre : Kids' Animation
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Teamwork
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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