The Simpsons

Parents need to know that the jokes in The Simpsons often zip past so quickly that kids won't always get the deeper statements hidden within the long-running animated show's chronicle of the lives of dad Homer, mom Marge, son Bart, and daughters Lisa and Maggie. Life in Springfield can be chaotic, and Homer could very well be the "do not try this at home" poster boy. Lisa and Marge emphasize the importance of communication and self control, often acting as the family's consciousness. There's frequent use of "hell" and "damn," usually by Bart. Homer frequently chokes Bart, but it's played for laughs. Religion, morality, ethics, and other sensitive issues are mocked. Halloween specials are particularly violent, with characters killing each other in gruesome ways that may disturb young or sensitive viewers. Characters sometimes eat or drink things that bring on psychedelic trips. Naked rear ends (animated) are sometimes visible, and sex is the subject of jokes (which kids may not get). Characters drink beer in nearly every episode, occasionally use tobacco, and, it's implied, use pot. Guest stars vary in terms of culture, race, and sexual orientation. But the show has been criticized for its use of stereotypes -- especially convenience store owner Apu, who perpetuates Indian immigrant cliches.