If they raise parental concerns, especially due to screen time or the content of certain episodes, not all cartoons should be lumped together. Gone are the days when children’s programs were systematically criticized for dumbing down. Today, many series broadcast on television or streaming platforms even benefit from the approval of specialists, who readily acknowledge their positive effects. In addition to entertaining, youth programs can help children grow better, understand their emotions, or develop their imagination. Among the regularly cited titles as benchmarks are “Peppa Pig,” “Dora the Explorer,” or “Bluey,” a true global phenomenon.
“Bluey,” an animated series that helps children grow better Indeed, “Bluey” has just received a spotlight it didn’t really need to attract even more fans. The Australian animated series centered on a little dog and her family received praise from the magazine “Educational and Developmental Psychologist.” Behind its ultra-energetic universe, the animated series offers reflections accessible to young viewers. Games, disputes, everyday worries… The characters experience simple situations, similar to those encountered by children.
To come to this conclusion, researchers did not take their eyes off the screen. They watched, analyzed, and dissected no less than 150 episodes to understand how these stories could help children grow. One of the key concepts highlighted by the creators of “Bluey” is resilience. According to the study, nearly half of the episodes directly or indirectly address this essential competence for child development. “We analyzed each episode by identifying the moments when a character faced a challenge and showed an appropriate response,” explained the researchers.
As TF1 points out, “resilience, often summarized as the ability to ‘hang in there,’ actually goes much further. It helps manage stress, regulate emotions, and bounce back after failure.” These skills are essential to acquire from a young age, as they promote better social relationships and contribute to a good psychological balance. To refine their analysis, scientists relied on a model structured around three pillars: “I have” (the resources surrounding the child), “I can” (the skills to act), and “I am” (internal strengths).
The series was found to have a significant impact on children’s emotional development. Parents are strongly encouraged to watch the series with their children. “When parents watch with their children, it opens the door to discussions,” explain the researchers. Discussing an episode, verbalizing the emotions felt, or imagining how to react in a similar situation helps to further strengthen these learning experiences.
To watch this extraordinary animated series, in France, “Bluey” can be found on Disney+, which offers all seasons. The series is also broadcast for free on France TV (via France 5 or Okoo), as well as on the official Bluey French YouTube channel.
