Parents' Guide to

Zou

By Emily Ashby, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 3+

Curious zebra tot's adventures model positive social skills.

TV Disney Junior Kids' Animation 2012
Zou Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

  • Zou TV Show: Scene #1
  • Zou TV Show: Scene #2
  • Zou TV Show: Scene #3
  • Zou TV Show: Scene #4

Community Reviews

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age 3+

Based on 2 parent reviews

Victoria34
Victoria34 Parent
May 28, 2016
age 2+

Wholesome and FUN!

Both of my kids absolutely love Zou! It is calming, but fun. The characters are not yelling at them to repeat anything or do something. They want to have the adventures that zou and his friends are having! There are fantastic lessons to be learned from watching and there are a variety of "types" on the show, which is a great way to start discussions with little people.

This title has:

Great messages
Great role models
jinx-wolf
jinx-wolf Parent of 2-year-old
March 6, 2014
age 3+

Cute Show!

My daughter loves watching Zou and I love the lessons it teaches. Zou is usually met with situations that require a bit of thinking and rather than solve it for him, the adults in the show help guide him in the right direction so he can solve it himself. It encourages critical thinking in a fun and playful way.

This title has:

Great messages
Great role models
See all 2 parent reviews

What's the Story?

ZOU follows the adventures of a 5-year-old zebra named Zou, who lives with his extended family in a brightly colored town filled with friendly neighbors. There are his friends, Elzee and Zak; his cousin Zinnia; and his feathered friend, Poc, who's always at his side for his exploits. For Zou, every day is a chance to learn something and to have fun while doing it.

Is It Any Good?

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

Based on the character from books by Michael Gay, Zou is a charming tot with an insatiable sense of wonder about the world and all its workings. The simple stories are indicative of preschoolers' experiences, with Zou exploring new hobbies, role playing, and engaging in imaginative play. When his plans involve others, the characters learn about getting along and solving problems, as well as fixing the mistakes they make.

Parents will love the how this show presents family relationships within Zou's home, where four generations happily coexist. Zou especially reaps the benefits of strong bonds with his parents and his grandparents, and someone is always around to help guide him with sage advice, encouragement, and positive behavioral examples.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the role Zou plays in his community. How is he able to help others? What jobs does he fill at home? In his neighborhood?

  • Kids: How does Zou's family structure compare to yours? What does being a family mean to you? How are all the members of your family alike?

  • Families can check out other characters who moved from books to TV shows. Read some of their stories before you watch them on TV. Which format do you like better? Are there any benefits to reading books over watching TV?

  • How do the characters in Zou demonstrate curiosity and teamwork? Why are these important character strengths?

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 suggesting a diversity update.

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