Canadian Children's Shows That Still Give Us Warm Fuzzies
The entrance to the Children’s TV exhibit at the Canadian Museum of History.
Image Source: CultureSlate
Many of us remember the TV shows of our childhoods fondly. They mesmerized us, taught us, and prepared us for the things we would face growing up. Even years later, we fondly remember these shows and try to pass them on to our children.
Many children’s TV shows have their unique elements, whether in format, content, or some other aspect. For Canadian children’s shows in particular, shows took on uniquely Canadian aspects, whether they were Canadian shows set in Canada or from other sources that were Canadian co-productions. In truth, it’s hard to pick only a handful of standouts. The following shows are ten shows that still give the author of this piece warm fuzzies:
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10. Bookmice
Image Source: YouTube
Airing on TVOntario (TVO) for one season, from 28 December 1992 to 30 March 1993, Bookmice told the story of three mice-Norbert, Zazi, and Leon- who inhabit the walls of a public library. With their existence known to only a handful of young friends and a ginger cat named Exit, the mice spend their time exploring the library, its activities, and the wonderful world of books. While doing so, the show teaches children about things like helping others, honesty, and overcoming fear.
9. Polka Dot Door
Image Source: Wikipedia
Airing on TVO from 1971 to 1993, Polka Dot Door was geared toward education and creativity. There were different themes for each weekly group of episodes, presented by the hosts in creative ways, such as Dress-Up Day on Tuesdays. The main feature of the show was Polkaroo (a combination of “polka dot” and “kangaroo), a giant green polka-dotted kangaroo who always seemed to appear at the same time the show’s second host was absent. Viewers would laugh at the horrible luck of the second host in “missing” the appearance of the mythical character. They would also enjoy looking through the eponymous Polka Dot Door, which often brought a surprise in the form of a short educational film.
8. Babar
Image Source: Episode Ninja
Airing on CBC in Canada and HBO in the United States, Babar ran from 1989 to 1991. Over five seasons, children followed the life and adventures of Babar, the elephant king of Celesteville, and his family and friends. The show’s later themes of progressivism and interacting with those around you remain relevant to this day.
7. The Elephant Show
Image Source: YouTube
The Elephant Show, a Canadian preschool show, is another CBC classic, running over five seasons from 1984 to 1989. The three human hosts, Sharon, Lois, and Bram, are joined by Elephant, whose vocals are helpfully and hilariously provided by a tuba. The music conveys Elephant’s thoughts and moods through pitch and inflection as he accompanies the hosts, their sidekick, and a group of children on their adventures. They sing songs, help children with their problems, and occasionally teach about social issues. Each episode ended with the song “Skinnamarink.” When I was in Grade 11 religion class, my classmates and I discovered through reminiscing about our favourite shows that we had all been to the same Elephant Show live show when we were all six years old! It was a real bonding moment.
6. Under The Umbrella Tree
Image Source: IMDB
Okay, before doing my research, I had forgotten that this show took place in a suburb of my hometown—cue even more warm fuzzies. Under the Umbrella Tree aired on both CBC and the Disney Channel from 1987 to 1993. It told the story of a human (Holly), an iguana (Iggy), a blue jay (Jacob), and a gopher (Gloria), who all lived together in a suburb of Ottawa, Ontario, in a house that contained an indoor umbrella tree. Each episode of the show focused on a different theme, including things like sports, singing, and other activities. It also taught valuable life lessons- things like keeping promises, being responsible, and being considerate.
5. Mr. Dressup
Image Source: MUBI
Airing on CBC from 1967 to 1996, Mr. Dressup is an icon of Canadian media. Hosted by Ernie Coombs- a former Mr. Rogers understudy- as the titular character, the show aired on weekday mornings. Each day, Mr. Dressup led children in songs, stories, arts, crafts, and imagination, with the help of friends like Casey, Finnegan the Dog, and Chester the Crow. Equally as iconic as the show’s treehouse was the Tickle Trunk, from which wonderful things often appeared.
4. The Raccoons
Image Source: YouTube
Airing on CBC and Disney Channel from 1985 to 1991, The Raccoons told the story of the titular Canadian trash pandas and their efforts to protect their forest from industrialism. The series eventually shifted into a humanoid animal representation of Canada in general. It handled subjects in a serious matter while remaining uncomplicated for younger viewers, and remains a beloved memory for many millennials.
3. Today’s Special
Image Source: IMDB
Running from 1981 to 1987, and details the adventures of Jodie, a night shift worker at a major department store, Jeff the mannequin who comes to life, and characters like security guard Sam Crenshaw and a mouse named Muffy. The show taught lessons about many subjects, ranging from simple objects to complex topics like alcoholism. The show also included short films and a variety of visitors.
2. Fraggle Rock
Image Source: TV Insider
Yes, Fraggle Rock. It was a Canadian co-production. Running from 1983 to 1987 and brought back in limited formats in the 2000s, Fraggle Rock was initially filmed in Toronto and features inventor Doc, his dog Sprocket, and a host of fantastic characters, namely Fraggles, Doozers, Gorgs, and Silly Creatures. The show used fantasy creatures for allegory in exploring subjects such as prejudice, social conflict, and spirituality.
1. Sesame Park
Image Source: HowStuffWorks
The Canadian version of Sesame Street, Sesame Park ran from 1972 to 2001. It featured unique Canadian characters like Louis the Otter, Basil the Bear, and Dodi, the bush pilot, with more added in later seasons. The show has the same aims as the original Sesame Street, with a Canadian twist; segments include discussing Canadian national symbols.
… and fond childhood memories.
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