Barney and Friends

by Tristi Pinkston | More from this Blogger

Who doesn't know Barney the purple dinosaur? For the last several years, he has been a mainstay of children's programming. Invented by a mother who needed something to keep her children quiet on long car rides, Barney has established himself in homes across America and the world.

This is not to say that he's the parents' favorite show. Most parents tolerate him, grateful for the half-hour of entertainment he provides, but usually find other tasks to do while he is on. "I hate Barney" clubs exist, and I've heard any number of "Kill Barney!" comments. But this is just one of those decisions you have to make for yourself.

The premise is simple. Barney is a stuffed dinosaur who lives at a school. After the children are done with their studies for the day, they stay after to help clean up, do crafts, or play on the playground. Barney comes to life and plays with them, a child himself in many ways, but also possessing some maturity to help them solve difficult social problems. In the meantime, they sing songs, play games, dress up, and hold puppet shows. A pretty fun show, all in all, except for one major flaw - the caffeinated children.

These poor kids can't just say a line. They have to do jazz hands while they're talking, bobbing their little heads up and down for emphasis, behaving a few years below grade level. They are playing up to the audience constantly, probably doing what they've been told to do, but they aren't acting like normal children, and that makes the show a little hard to get into.

I miss the early days of Tina, Lucy, and Michael. They overacted too, but now that I see what the following generations have had to offer, I have a greater appreciation for what used to be.

Don't get me wrong - I think Barney has given us a lot. Raise of hands - who sings the Clean Up song to get their children to - well, clean up? I've served in my church's nursery frequently, and it's never failed. You sing the song, the kids spring into action, everyone knows what's expected of them, and life is good.

Yeah, this show is hard to call. It's one of those love-hate relationship things. I asked Benjamin how he feels, and he pulled his blanket up over his head. I think I agree.

Tristi's Score: 6 for Education, 7 for Entertainment, and the Parent Annoyance Factor is 4.

Learn more about Tristi Pinkston

I am a stay-at-home mom, author of eight published books, a freelance editor, and the mother of four incredible children. I enjoy scrapbooking, watching good movies, and taking naps.

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