TV Show Rating Guide from Tech-Wise Littles
To rate shows, we use a 5-star scale based on 6 categories. We look at pacing, the conversation connection of the show (this is what actually makes a show educational!), the social/emotional skills the show promotes, language, diversity, and intensity. In each category, a show can earn 0-5 points! You can use this same scale to preview ANY show your child watches by simply going through the list below.
5 Stars Extraordinary 25-30
4 Stars Excellent 20--24
3 Stars Very Good 15-19
2 Stars Fair 10-15
1 Star Poor 5-9
0 Stars Not Recommended 0-5
Pacing: (0-5 points) We want shows that mirror the pace of real life. That means:
- Slow scene changes (at least 4 seconds)
- Minimal flashing lights
- Developmentally-appropriate soundtrack
- Uses natural color palette
- Mimics real life and easily transferable to the real world
- Developmentally appropriate show length
Conversation Connection: (0-5 points) Talking with your child about their show is what makes the show truly educational! Does the show have...
- Easy conversation starters
- Critical thinking skills
- Conversation-worthy moral
- Adult-friendly (you won’t be bored watching it with your little)
- Developmentally-appropriate educational content
Social/Emotional Skills: (0-5 points) Does the show promote...
- Positive message/moral
- Characters worth emulating
- Highlights grit, bravery, kindness, creativity
- Shows problem-solving skills; conflicts move toward resolution
- Characters take developmentally appropriate risks
Language: (0-5 points)
- Uses child-friendly language
- Vocabulary enhancing
- Good use of repetition
- Slower-paced dialogue
- Avoids slurs/negative language
Diversity: (0-5 points)
- Multicultural characters
- Multicultural exposure/content
- Bilingual content
- Defies gender or racial stereotypes
- Shows different family configurations
Intensity (0-5 points)
- Developmentally appropriate evoking of emotion
- Void of scary content
- Non-violent
- Appropriate use of conflict with resolution
- Non-sexual content
NO show will check every box, but if most boxes can be checked, you can feel good about your child watching the show!
xo
