EDIT: For the record, a ton of parents hate this show. I've heard a lot complain that it's annoying, has no educational merit, etc. I think it's great, though - kids need to be exposed to creativity at an early age. And to quality music.
Yeah, I've heard a ton of parents bitching about it too, but I don't understand why. Maybe it isn't teaching kids how to count or say the alphabet, but hell, its getting them to get off their butts and dance! Kids need more shows that will get the active. Childhood obesity is at its worst right now and any show the encourages movement is great. This show has the whole dancey dance segment, plus tons of times they play music and show everyone dancing, which is bound to get kids moving around.
And then you have the whole tummy party thing. Kids love that, and I know it will get more kids to eat everything. I live with 7 kids under the age of 10. I know how impressionable kids are. I refuse to drink or smoke around them. I don't want them to pick up my bad habits. I know that they will be more willing to finish all the food on their plates just because some big furry monster says it's cool.
Kids need art. I may be biased on this subject, having grown up in a very "art encouraging" environment. In preschool, I went to four different art classes a day. My mom bought me every art supply I every wanted. She encouraged me to draw, paint, taking pictures, etc. When I was in third or fourth grade we painted a mural on our basement wall. I mean, art definitely needs to be encouraged in kids. Kids should be creative. Kids should be allowed to experience all of that.
And I know a lot of parents were bitching about the Biz Markie part, and I can kinda see why. I mean, who really wants their kids spitting everywhere he he is trying to beatbox? Although, a beat boxing kid would be awesome.
