Yakari

Yakari is a great example of the beauty of simplicity in kids' entertainment. There's nothing fancy about this series, from the traditional animation style to the uncomplicated stories themselves, so it's easy for even young kids to follow along. Yakari's ability to talk to animals adds a fun element that kids will really like, and parents will like that those characters join the human adults in being positive influences on the spirited but well-meaning boy.

Because Yakari keeps the story simple, focusing only on the peaceful Sioux tribe and not incorporating white characters (and thus historical conflicts) of any sort, it's a straightforward introduction to the sights and sounds of Native American culture with emphasis on community and deference to nature. Depending on your kids' readiness, you can take the subject further with your own explorations of related topics that interest them.