Notwithstanding the "idiot box" moniker that TV has come to deserve in many respects, there is still good material if we look really hard (and if we persist with the feedback to the networks and advertisers). Here's one of them! According to Common Sense Media, "parents need to know that FRANKLIN is highly recommended for preschoolers and has no worrisome content. The characters are good role models, and the pace and situations are age-appropriate. It's a rare show that celebrates the innocence of childhood."
Franklin is a Canadian children's TV series based on a series of books by Brenda Clark (illustrator) and Paulette Bourgeois (writer). It first aired in 1997 and originally ended its run in 2000. Then three years later, digital cable channel Noggin introduced the show to American preschoolers, who by then were familiar with the books. How did the show do? It enjoyed instant popularity!
Common Sense Media's latest newsletter issue contains a review of the series:
Based on a children’s book by Paulette Bourgeois and Brenda Clark, FRANKLIN is about a turtle who is trying to figure out his place in the world. He lives in a village where he and his friends enjoy swimming in the pond, playing outdoors, and going to school. Yes! They enjoy school. For this and other refreshing reasons, parents will feel comfortable letting their preschoolers tune in.
Franklin is a turtle who "...could count by two’s and tie his shoes," as the narrator notes during the show’s preamble. Such things denote the innocence of a certain age. And as this program suggests, such innocence should be nurtured. Franklin is an every-turtle who is learning his way in his world. Though he lives in a village, Franklin is aware that things are “different” in the city, and he knows that he is growing up.
To read the whole review, go to Common Sense Media
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