Common Sense Media Review
By Emily Ashby
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Teens' journeys in each other's shoes are fun for families.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 7+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
What's the Story?
In SWAP TV, Canadian teens trade lives for a weekend to experience new places, meet new people, and try new hobbies. The participants live with each other's families and take part in their regular activities, and each must complete a challenge given to them by their swapping partner. From flying to cooking, farming to competitive sports, these teens will never look at life quite the same way after walking it in someone else's shoes.
Is It Any Good?
This series reminds viewers of the benefits of looking at the world from a different perspective, which is ripe with positive messages for kids. Often the participants show some apprehension about their ability to complete the tasks set out for them, but their willingness to try always translates into the satisfaction of success. Similarly, experiencing a different way of life gives them a greater sense of respect for the diversity around them.
Kids will like watching the teens try new things and might take an interest in some of the hobbies they see in the show, which gives families a good reason to get out and try new things, see new places, and meet new people together.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the teens' experiences on the show. What challenges did the participants face when they swapped lives? What do you think would be the biggest hurdle for you? What feelings do you experience when you're put in an unfamiliar situation? How do you cope?
Kids: What aspects of your life are your favorites? Which would you like to change if you had the chance? If you could spend a weekend in another place, where would it be? What do you think you might learn from the experience?
What messages does this show have for its audience? Do you think it's trying to teach you something? If so, what? Does it inspire you to try new things?
TV Details
- Premiere date : October 10, 2003
- Network : Syndicated
- Genre : Educational
- Topics : Adventures
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
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