Bluey: more than a kids show

“I know it looks silly, but it’s a really good show and I think you’ll love it!” This is what my girlfriend told me about an animated Australian series called Bluey.,” which is available on Disney Plus for American viewers.. At first glance, it seems to be no different from any other children’s show – it tells about a family of anthropomorphic dogs, in particular the blue and red heelers, whose main character is Bluey, her parents Bandit and Chili and her younger sister Bingo. The episodes seemed pretty straight forward – kids have adventures and parents can teach some of the lessons kids will learn from that, both in the show and those who watch it.

But after watching a few episodes, something has changed. It was not like other children’s TV programs. The characters seemed like real people. The children’s script was not like a script. They looked like normal kids playing games and having fun. And parents were not ideal guardians, who always had everything under control. They seemed to be as human as the children, they did a great job, but sometimes they screwed up. In other words, I found the show very interesting, because at one time, of course, I was a child and had to look after children.

When I did further research, I found that what I experienced was not accidental, but rather intentional. The NPR article explains that while the show is aimed at young audiences, it is also written for adults. A common theme that viewers have picked up is how committed parents are – they always go along with their kids’ actions, even when they’re tired or busy. One parent said that this is one of the few shows she lets her kids watch simply because it portrays good parents. She even takes notes during episodes for parenting tips.

The Bluey fandom is not limited to articles on the Internet. Type in the name of a show on YouTube or TikTok and you’ll find episode video montages, parent reactions to the show, and even video essays that talk about the show’s meaning. But one of the ongoing accolades the show has earned is its creative ability to discuss complex topics that don’t irritate young viewers but also provide valuable lessons for parents. In one episode, Bandit and Bluey are taking an injured bird to the vet. Although the bird does not survive, it gives parents a way to explain death in a way that children can understand. Another episode features a family friend who can’t have children – Chili is able to explain what’s going on using a creative analogy that presents the situation in a way that’s not suitable for children.

I think what attracts people to the show is that it brings a new sense of joy to being with a family. Another article about the series revealed some of Bluey’s characteristics. First, the episodes are approximately eight minutes long. They keep up with the child’s attention span and offer something easy for parents to watch. The episodes are also very funny. They have kid-friendly humor with plenty of jokes scattered around them that go beyond their heads and make adults laugh.

But most importantly, fans are drawn to the examples that the characters set. Fans love the connection between Bandit and Chili. They take care of the children as a team, making time for each other’s romantic and family relationships. They are also excellent parents. They take time out of their busy day to play with Bluey and Bingo, going along with all their shenanigans even when they don’t feel like it. They correct their children when they are wrong, but are also willing to admit when they make mistakes. They provide a healthy balance that all parents can strive for.

The show provides enjoyable content without being afraid to show the realities of parenting. Parents fight, kids get hurt, and the difficulties of family life are portrayed in ways that kids may not see, but adults certainly can. However, that never detracts from what the show is about: showing how a family should love each other while continuing to grow as people, for both kids and adults.

I think people at UD will refer to “Bluey”. Many at the university want to get married and have children after college, and some even get married while studying. At the very least, most UDers value the institution of marriage and family. Bluey helps show how complex and difficult family relationships can be, and at the same time joyfully depicts how fulfilling and wonderful they can be.

For people who want a light-hearted and deep depiction of marriage and family life, the latest episode of Bluey is the best bet.