When I saw that the Magic School Bus was being rebooted. I wasn't thrilled. After seeing older shows redone to fit modern times I was hesitant. But decided if it manages to keep the educational value of the old Magic School Bus, maybe it's worth giving a chance. So is it worth checking out?
The New magic school Bus definitely has a familiar feel to it. Most of the kids are the same as in the old series. However, this series features Ms. Frizzle's sister as the teacher. In the pilot episode Arnold struggles because he doesn't like change. And as the episode continues it explores that struggle as well as the danger of change to an ecosystem.
In episode 2 the kids are putting on a play and they are challenge to use real bricks and make it really wind proof. So Ms. Frizzle takes them on a trip to explore how wind works. While trying to figure things out some of the other kids have suggestions, but the director doesn't want to hear them. By the end of the episode the kids learn how wind works, as well as the value of listening to other people.
Magic School Bus Season 1: 13 Episodes
What this show does well: It keeps a lot of the old. While there are new graphics, it keeps the same magic feel of the old series. Usually there are life values included in each episode along with educational focuses. Other remakes featured on Cartoon Network like Scooby Doo, Teen Titans, Looney Toons, ruin the show by including lots of hyper activity and yelling. This remake fortunately steers clear from that pattern.
Opportunities for discussion: While this is a show that you can sit your child in front of and not fear what might come up, it also provides opportunities for discussion if you watch with your kid. This show also takes the world around us and works it into life lessons. And makes learning fun.
Netflix Connection: I love how this show usually tackles two birds with one stone. Usually a kid has a problem or an attitude to work through. And then as the episode continues and they take a field trip, the kids learn something that sometimes also applies to their Attitude or problem. There's so much that happens each day and I believe that lessons are hiding around every corner. Through objects or circumstances. How can we look at things from a new angle? What might God be telling us through the ordinary things? The first episode focuses on how sometimes change can be a good thing, and other times not. The third episode focuses on the idea of being strong together. One kid encounters a shark under the ocean and learns that a fish will fend off a shark by joining with other fishes. This follows the biblical principle of standing strong together. When we join with friends and family and God, we can get through the harder times. As you're watching this series I'm sure there's plenty of chances to tie biblical principles to what's being taught.
Recommended? While I was skeptical at first, this remake is one I can recommend with no regrets. Trying to find a good show these days can be challenging, but The Magic School Bus Rides again is certainly one to check out. Some older kids might not be as interested, but as a guess I'd say ages 4(or younger) through 10 would enjoy this series. Older viewers who grew up with the original will most likely enjoy the approach to this series and the newer graphics will appeal to kids now better than the original. Well done.
*Please note this review is based on the first four episodes of the first season. I expect that the rest of the episodes are as wonderful as the first four.
Remember friends keep making ripples. :D
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