Genre: Children's educational
Target Age Group: Preschoolers
Episode runtime: Approx. 30 minutes for 3 adventures
Network: Nick Jr. (check listings for times)
Max & Ruby - Overview
Based on the classic children's book series by Rosemary Wells, the animated TV show Max & Ruby recounts the delightful adventures of two bunny siblings. The show is animated in the same style as the book illustrations, and the stories are also similar - short and sweet.
The bunny tales revolve around seven-year-old Ruby and her three-year-old little brother Max. Sometimes, Max can seem like a pest, but Ruby tries to be patient. At times, Ruby doesn't let Max in on her activities, but Max usually finds a way to play along. Also, Grandma is often there to encourage the kids and lend a kindly hand when needed.
Max & Ruby focuses on every day situations that preschool kids can relate to. Through the interactions between Max and Ruby, kids can learn about concepts such as teamwork, communication, patience, and the value of family relationships.
Max & Ruby - Guide Review
Every episode of Max & Ruby focuses in some way on the relationship between the two siblings. Max, being a little brother, gets into a lot of mischief. Ruby often patiently tries to direct him to another activity, or she explains to him the reasons why he can't do the thing he wants to. Sometimes, they end up playing and working together.
In general, the interactions are positive and model good techniques for getting along with a troublesome toddler. When Ruby is not being as sensitive as she should be, though, Grandma will often step in and do something to make Max feel happy.
The characters and stories in Max & Ruby are not quite as relatable as those in Caillou, another show for preschoolers which heavily focuses on modeling behavior, but Max & Ruby does offer kids a good mix of positive lessons and entertainment.
Max & Ruby - Expand Upon the Curriculum
- Max & Ruby is a great show to help kids learn empathy and understanding others' feelings. During the show, pause if you can at points where Ruby excludes Max. Ask kids how they think Max feels and why. Then, turn the tables and ask them how Ruby feels when Max gets in the way of the activity she is trying to do.
- The official Max & Ruby website offers educational games and printables to go along with the show.
