Franklin

FRANKLIN (1997-2006) is a cute, wholesome animated childrens series, and although a bit older now, definitely great for young audiences.

"The popular children's books, written by Paulette Bourgeois, come alive in this television series about a turtle named Franklin. Each episode has a story of Franklin and his friends. You will follow the adventures of Franklin as he learns about the world around him, and how to be an honest turtle with good character."

This hand drawn children's show is pretty cute and entertaining, as well as educational. It's focus is on friendship and family, and moralistic life lessons make it memorable.

As a children's show, the vibe is definitely on the mellow side, making it ideal for hyper little ones. Not everything has to be so fast paced. There will be plenty of time for fast, flashy, and over-stimulating media to consume later on. This one is cute!

I would watch this how all the time. It was funny, and entertaining, and just a great show. The characters were great and the story-lines were suberb. Then all of the sudden, they started introducing new characters like crazy, and Bear started wearing a blue vest that made him look gay. That's when I stopped watching. If you want to watch Franklin, make sure it's the original episodes.

Franklin is an every-turtle who is constantly exploring and discovering his world alongside his family and friends. He and his friends enjoy swimming, playing outdoors, and going to school. You heard that right, they actually enjoy school. Franklin has some great adults in his life such as his parents, his friends' parents, Mr Owl, and other relatives. The kid characters are very cool as well, including Franklin himself, Bear, Beaver, Fox, Goose, Rabbit, Otter, Snail, Badger, Skunk, Raccoon, Mole, Possum, and Moose. The problems and situations in the show are very relatable to a child (they were to me at least). Some of these include wanting a pet, having sleepovers, going to camp, losing teeth, starting school, having a friend move away, getting a new sibling, being afraid to go in the basement etc. Here is a rare show that celebrates the innocence of childhood.

One of the more simpering and sanctimonious cartoons for very small children. The dark shadow of the moral can be spotted a mile away and taints these bland narratives with blander characters.

I don't know if your child will respond to the adventures of Franklin at his school or his friends, but the fact that they're animals doesn't affect anything and there are so much more charming stuff for this target demographic that manage to convey lessons in a more character driven spontaneous way.

It is educational, with charismatic characters and a nice atmosphere; recommended for young children.