Counter Culture

Bear in the Big Blue House: Potty Time With Bear
Bear in the Big Blue House: Shapes and Colours With Bear
Reviewed by Pat Harrington

First, let me confess that I’m a big fan of Bear in the Big Blue House. I watch it on television with the kids and they enjoy it almost as much as me! I find myself humming the tunes in embarrassing situations and getting weird looks off people who recognise them!

Bear was first seen on the Disney Channel but it has grown into one of the most popular kid’s shows. One reason I like Bear is that he has a lot of fun. He is a big, gentle and calm character. His ‘supporting cast’ of Treelo the lemur, Ojo the bear cub, Tutter the mouse and Pip and Pop the otters are great.

It’s educational but not preachy. There are underlying morals but the show entertains. It’s a difficult balance to maintain but Bear in the Big Blue House accomplishes it. Add to that some well-written lyrics and tunes and you’ve got a hit.

I was delighted to hear that a range of Bear DVDs was being released. Potty Time With Bear deals with teaching and encouraging basic bathroom skills and would be a good aid for parents. My only criticism is that is used the American diaper rather than nappy which might confuse some English kids. Perhaps we need an English English option on the soundtrack! Shapes, Sounds and Colours is very watchable and fun but not as good. I thought that it was a little too complex for younger children when it went into how colours could be mixed.

Well worth buying, however. I look forward to seeing the next in the series when they are released in June.

Potty Time With Bear Extras