Franklin

Even as an adult I love this show. It brings me back to the simplicity of childhood.

The 2d version was the best and main attraction to treehouse next to berenstain bears, blues clues and calliou.

The reboot 3d version was, well it sucked. The characters are to different and jolly that it's sick to my stomach.

Franklin, the animated series based on the beloved children's books by Paulette Bourgeois and Brenda Clark, offers a gentle, values-driven portrayal of early childhood experiences. Airing in the late 1990s and early 2000s, the show follows Franklin the Turtle and his woodland friends as they navigate everyday challenges-from learning patience to resolving playground conflicts.

The series is commendable for its calm pacing and emotionally grounded storytelling. Each episode centers on a relatable moral dilemma, often resolved through open communication, empathy, and guidance from caring adults. Franklin himself is a thoughtful and earnest character, and the show's emphasis on kindness, responsibility, and friendship aligns well with its preschool audience.

Visually, Franklin maintains a soft, storybook aesthetic that mirrors its literary origins. The animation is modest but consistent, and the voice acting is warm and approachable. The show's tone is notably subdued, which can be a strength for young viewers but may feel overly slow or predictable to older children or adults revisiting the series.

Professionally, Franklin earns a 6/10. It's a wholesome and well-structured program that fulfills its educational goals without relying on gimmicks or high-energy antics. However, its lack of narrative innovation and repetitive format limit its broader appeal. While it may not captivate across age groups, Franklin remains a dependable choice for families seeking gentle, character-driven storytelling rooted in timeless values.

Franklin is an every-turtle who is constantly exploring and discovering his world alongside his family and friends. He and his friends enjoy swimming, playing outdoors, and going to school. You heard that right, they actually enjoy school. Franklin has some great adults in his life such as his parents, his friends' parents, Mr Owl, and other relatives. The kid characters are very cool as well, including Franklin himself, Bear, Beaver, Fox, Goose, Rabbit, Otter, Snail, Badger, Skunk, Raccoon, Mole, Possum, and Moose. The problems and situations in the show are very relatable to a child (they were to me at least). Some of these include wanting a pet, having sleepovers, going to camp, losing teeth, starting school, having a friend move away, getting a new sibling, being afraid to go in the basement etc. Here is a rare show that celebrates the innocence of childhood.

One of the more simpering and sanctimonious cartoons for very small children. The dark shadow of the moral can be spotted a mile away and taints these bland narratives with blander characters.

I don't know if your child will respond to the adventures of Franklin at his school or his friends, but the fact that they're animals doesn't affect anything and there are so much more charming stuff for this target demographic that manage to convey lessons in a more character driven spontaneous way.