Parents' Guide to Zoom

TV PBS Educational 1999
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Common Sense Media Review

By Sarah Wenk , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 8+

Fun and games for middle-elementary kids.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 8+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

age 7+

Based on 2 parent reviews

age 6+

Based on 6 kid reviews

What's the Story?

ZOOM is the show that encourages kids to \"turn off the TV and do it!\" It features games, science, food, theatre, and just about anything else you can imagine. Taped guest segments showcase groups of kids doing good works all over the country, from working with the elderly to sending packages to soldiers overseas.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say ( 2 ):
Kids say ( 6 ):

Zoom reflects the myriad interests of middle-elementary kids. Fun and enlightening at the same time, everything in the series is presented by a cheerful and talented multi-racial cast. Tapes guest segments include a deaf boy explaining his life and dreams to viewers, and a French girl discussing her love of singing.

The show's science experiments are fun and practical, including testing for skin sensitivity and sense perception. All of the materials and procedures are clearly explained so kids can try them at home, and the cast encourages viewers to send their results and ideas in. It's fun and clever, and a cut above typical TV fare.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the projects featured on the show. Which ones are the most appealing? Do you have any ideas for new projects to submit? Parents and kids are encouraged to do the projects together and send their results into the show.

TV Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by

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What to Watch Next

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