It's a Big Big World

My son really likes this show (he is 16 months). It has animals and songs, which are two of his favorite things. Not a lot can hold his interest, but this is one of the few cartoons that does. Plus, it doesn't bother me too much to watch it. Some of the newer cartoons I just don't like. I also highly recommend the Backyardigans for this age, Clifford, and Clifford's Puppy Days. All of his favorites.

It's a Big, Big World is mainly about a giant sloth and his other animal friends, which include a fish, a couple of monkey's, a bird, and a tree frog. Also, there is a knowledgeable turtle whom they go to for advice. It is entertaining and educational.

Honestly, I love this show! I'll tell you why: It's one of the best children's shows on today. My five year old son is in love with it (has been for several years), and I am, too, because it's witty,fun and wonderful.

The puppetry is amazingly done and the movement is fluid and seamless. The set (digital and otherwise) is entirely charming. The songs are so catchy that I often find myself singing along, and even humming them as I work or clean. And the praise doesn't stop there.

It doesn't condescend to children (which I appreciate for two reasons. One, it doesn't drive me bonkers to see it on, and Two, I remember being that young. And even then, I found that sort of thing insulting. My son seems to feel the same way.) Also, no one on the show has a horribly annoying voice *cough* *Barney* *cough*, everyone brings something special to the table.

And it has a great list of messages. Equality, friendship, cleaning up, caring for natural resources, listening, problem solving and scientific inquiry, all in a way that's exciting (but not frustrating or over-complicated) to children, and still enjoyable for adults. And they have bits of audience participation here and there, but respectfully done.

The sloth (the star of the show) is a bit like a surfer/philosopher, and he's a nurturing soul. My favorite character of the lot, easily.

I think it's a great show with a lot to teach and entertain young and old, alike!

This show is amazing for your kids who are interested in science! Except one or two episodes, but this is awesome!

Excellent show - the animation and puppeteering is fantastic and high quality. The story lines are all very friendly and positive. They pace is not the hyperkinetic, seizure inducing frentic, change scenes three times a second style that dominates too much programming for kids. Our daughter absolutely loves this show, and smiles and babbles happy noises when she hears the theme song. She has a total crush on Snook the Sloth and smiles when he is on screen. She especially loves the closing song.

The themes the show covers are all good, learning friendly concepts - science, math, self-discovery, getting along, confronting fear and doubt sensibly, and growing. The animals are mostly youngsters with some adults, like Snook and Madge the turtle, to guide and mentor the young animals.

One small criticism - Bob. What is up with Bob? He has his "moments." He's the Woody Allen of the World Tree. Bob ought be voted off the island. Also, Snook is indeed a stoner, but a lovable one.

Hey PBS - how about a DVD?

I really liked this show and my 2 year old loved it! He would ask for it when the time came every day for it to be on. Unfortunately, it was cancelled in my viewing area and I have not had a response on how to purchase any items of the show. The lessons that were taught in the show were very "real" for children, the special effects made it appear like a real jungle and the songs/music were very entertaining. My son loved the characters as they were puppet-like animals that danced and sang-very entertaining all around! I/we are very sad that we are not able to see this show but we frequent the website often! We are interested in learning how to purchase stuffed animals of them and are even making this the theme for my son's 2nd Birthday Party. I highly recommend it as it is a riveting and educational show for toddlers and preschoolers!