"Back to the Kindergarten" offers a thoughtful, if slightly subdued, entry in the Steven Universe series. The episode centers on Peridot's struggle to come to terms with loss and failure, and though it's one of the quieter episodes, it dives into relatable themes of resilience and healing. Peridot's attempts to revive the Kindergarten garden are both funny and touching, with Steven and Amethyst providing comforting support along the way.
The episode does a great job of showcasing the growth in each character's relationships, especially how they lean on each other during hard times. However, the pacing feels a bit slow, and while Peridot's journey is endearing, the episode doesn't fully dive into her character development. Fans of the series will appreciate the character moments, but newcomers might find it a little light on action.
Overall, "Back to the Kindergarten" is a solid 7/10: a bittersweet and gentle episode that captures the heart of Steven Universe with themes of friendship and resilience, even if it doesn't pack the emotional punch of the show's best moments.
