TiVo Kidzone™ Guide
Spider-Man Unlimited
Common Sense Media Says:
Spider-Man battling racism, better for older kids. -- for ages 9+. Parents need to know that this animated entry in the Spider-Man saga transports the hero to Counter-Earth, a planet much like the real thing, but controlled by the evil High Evolutionary who has created a race of intelligent, anthropomorphic animals and thinks humans are an inferior nuisance that should be eradicated. It ran briefly in 1999 and 2000, and only 13 episodes were aired; the last one ends in a never-completed cliff-hanger. On Counter Earth, the web-slinger teams up with a band of revolutionaries to fight the villain. These themes of eugenics and racial purity, combined with a bit more violence than other action cartoons for children, makes the series a better fit for older kids and tweens. Families can talk about racism. Why does the High Evolutionary think humans are inferior to his animal-hybrid creations? How does he treat them? Do you think it’s fair for him to discriminate against humans? Does this seem similar to the way some people are treated in reality? Are there any historical characters that seem similar to the High Evolutionary, who thinks some groups are genetically superior and entitled to rule the world?
Jesse James Is a Dead Man
Common Sense Media Says:
Stunt show has some intelligence amid spills and thrills. -- for ages 11+. Parents need to know that this reality show follows adrenaline junkie Jesse James through one risky stunt after another. Many of the speedy vehicles he likes can be hazardous, from an off-road dune buggy to a jet fighter to a super-fast nitro-bike. He often discusses safety precautions and takes pains to show viewers that he’s wearing the proper protective gear, but it’s clear that many of these activities could be quite dangerous if anything goes wrong -- or if anyone tried to copy them at home. That said, there’s no drugs or sex (and only a little swearing) -- just non-stop action. Families can talk about thrills. Why does James pursue so many dangerous activities? Do you think these stunts look like fun? Why do so many people enjoy courting danger? Do you think shows like this glamorize danger? Do you think any viewers will be tempted to try to copy these risky activities? What's the impact of seeing this kind of behavior on TV?
DogTown
Common Sense Media Says:
Parents need to know that this reality show follows the rehabilitation of abused and neglected dogs. Injured, sick, and emotionally stressed animals are occasionally shown, which could be upsetting for very young and/or sensitive viewers. The series relates the harsh realities of animal abuse and neglect while promoting animal welfare, pet neutering, and adoption. The featured facility's entire staff is dedicated to saving animals from being euthanized and finding them loving homes. Families can talk about the issue of animal abuse and neglect. How does the media call attention to issues like this? Have you ever heard a news story about animal abuse? Have you ever been to an animal shelter? What are some ways you can get involved in helping animals in need where you live?
MythBusters
Common Sense Media Says:
COMMON SENSE MEDIA FAVORITE: Team puts urban legends to the scientific test -- for ages 9+. Parents need to know that this series showcases problem analysis and the scientific approach to proving or disproving a thesis. It comes with repeated disclaimers for good reason, though, as episodes often include explosions, gunfire, and mixtures of volatile substances. Kids may need a reminder to not engage in such activities themselves. The hosts use human skeletons and animal parts in some experiments, which could make squeamish viewers uncomfortable. Families can talk about how Adam and Jamie devise their test plans. Once they've identified their challenge, what steps do they take to gather supplies and prepare their testing area? What types of experts help them? How? This show offers parents a unique opportunity to show kids the importance of a well-rounded education. What subjects do the hosts use to set up their experiments? How do you use what you've learned in everyday life?
Naked Science
Common Sense Media Says:
COMMON SENSE MEDIA FAVORITE: Science demystified; best for kids ages 10+. Parents need to know that while most episodes of this series don't contain sex or violence, some cover topics like human reproduction, gun ballistics, mummification, and Roman war technology. For younger or more sensitive children, some of the related imagery might be more disturbing than demystifying. Similarly, episodes about things like the end of the sun, extinctions, and volcanic devastation have images that some kids might interpret as "violence." Families can discuss the differences between belief and science. How does the show set up a problem, describe various theories, and separate opinion from fact? Of the viewpoints presented, which seems based on the most reliable facts? Does everyone always agree in the scientific world? It might also be interesting to note the credentials of the various experts. What kind of education, experience, and work led this person to become an authority on this topic?
Dirty Jobs
Common Sense Media Says:
COMMON SENSE MEDIA FAVORITE: Ick and shtick will appeal to older tweens and up -- for ages 11+. Parents need to know that this series' humor doesn't come just from the grubby vocations being reported on, but also from the irony of seeing a well-spoken, highly likeable television host up to his elbows in the dirty jobs of everyday American laborers. The show includes plenty of adult-oriented sarcasm, but chances are it will go over the head of most kids. Younger viewers will certainly be enthralled by the series' dirt, stench, and general ick, but the language and humor make it best for older tweens and up. Families can talk about the jobs and the physical strength, bravery, and stamina displayed by the people who do them day in and day out. Clearly, Rowe enjoys informing viewers about these occupations and is quick to describe the importance of what these workers do in their communities -- but, in the end, are we as viewers respecting these average Americans or gawking at them?
