Stanley

If your child is an animal lover, then in addition to Zoboomafoo (see Blog Entry #2) you should check out Stanley. Stanley was in production from 2001 until 2005 and explores animals while also dealing with every day problems in each episode. The main characters are Stanley, his pet Goldfish Dennis, and the “Great Big Book of Everything.” The supporting characters are very diverse with Jewish and African–American friends and a Latina teacher. Stanley’s mom is a dentist and a good role model.

Here is a bit of trivia for you. Dennis the goldfish is voiced by Charles Shaughnessy, a British actor well-known in the United States for starring in the television show, The Nanny, and in the NBC soap opera, Days of Our Lives. You will recognize his voice immediately.

I know that Common Sense Media must have great things to say about this show so let’s take a look:

What parents need to know: Parents need to know that it won't take long for this show to win the hearts of kids and parents alike. Stanley is an inquisitive, friendly kid with an insatiable appetite for asking questions about animals. Based on the book series by Andrew Griff, this cartoon is about a kid who sometimes makes mistakes, has challenges with his older brother, and always finds comfort in his pet dog, cat, and fish. In fact, Stanley has conversations with these animals, especially his best friend and confidant, Dennis the goldfish. Each episode involves a "jump" into the Great Big Book of Everything, where Stanley learns firsthand about the animal in question. A sure-bet hit with preschoolers and kindergarten-aged kids, it's about kids, friends, family, and the wonders of the animal kingdom.

Stanley may wear tiger-striped pajamas and talk to his pets, but he still manages to be one of the most relatable characters for kids on TV. He has trouble moving to a larger bed, gets frustrated with friends, and sometimes fights with his brother. He's also adorable, loves his family, and has a diverse set of friends.

Both the animal and human characters in Stanley's life are likable and interesting. Stanley's mother, a dentist, sometimes helps Stanley find the answers to his questions on the Internet and, though clearly a busy mom, she's very playful with her youngest son. Stanley's friends are African-American and Jewish, and his teacher is Latina. At the end of each episode, Stanley and Dennis tuck into their respective beds, talk about the day's adventure, and voice their appreciations for the marvelous creatures around them.

Back to me. I knew that they would love it. I noticed this additional review by a parent on Common Sense Media and thought it was great:

One of the few little kid's shows that I actually enjoy by myself: Oh yeah, you just read that right. I'm an adult and yet when this show was airing, I'd occasionally watch it without needing little kids around as an excuse. (Granted, I never let anyone know I was watching it) This is actually a pretty cool show. The characters are alright, the show teaches kids about animals (Though I do think Zoboomafoo did this a little better) and it's just fun. My favorite part was always that infamous song about the great big book of everything and I always found it hilarious how much the fish hated it. I know I am way too old for this show and yet I enjoy watching it, and with that in mind, I'm sure any child would enjoy it too.

Me again. Your kids will learn some good life lessons from Stanley and also learn about animals, not to the extent of Zoboomafoo, but still very worthwhile.