Out of the Box

YMA recommendation

	Approved as non-violent media
Most suitable age range: 2-4

Availability

About the program

Synopsis

A small group of children and their two adult friends have made a huge playhouse out of cardboard boxes where they meet to play games, sing songs, tell stories, do arts, crafts and various activities, most of which are possible for preschoolers to do at home.

Points to consider

Words of caution

• While there is nothing of concern in the content of the show, the presenters (both adults and children) come across overly happy and enthusiastic about everything, to the point that it may be quite patronizing to children.

Positive aspects

• Most of the crafts and activities are fairly straightforward and can be done by children at home using items that would already be on hand.
• The show demonstrates positive interactions such as sharing, thoughtfulness, curtesy, helpfulness and compassion.
• The presenters use imagination and creative thinking, especially when it comes to the dramatic presentation of stories;
• The presenters, both adults and children come from a diverse range of ethnic backgrounds;
• They take field trips, such as to meet artists who create unusual works of art.

Questions to ask

• What activities did they do on the show today? How did they do it? Is there another way that it could be done?
• Is there anything that you would like to do or make?
• Did they have a story? How did it end? Can you think of another ending for the story? Children could be encouraged to make up their own story and act it out.