Disney took the lead of television network Nickelodeon by turning their children’s programming block into a full fledged network for preschool aged children called Disney Junior. The elimination of Soapnet and rebranding of Playhouse Disney has turned into a 24 hour basic cable and satellite channel that debuted March 23 at 12:01am. Disney Junior airs discontinued favorites as well as new original series, including the animated series Doc McStuffins.
Doc McStuffins is a show about a 6 year old African-American girl, the show’s namesake voiced by Kiara Muhammad, who plays doctor in her backyard playhouse-turned-clinic to toys and stuffed animals. With help from her “people doctor” mom and stay-at-home dad, Doc shows compassion and concern for the health and well being of her patients, from her talking toys to her younger brother.
The show gives great positive messages, including different family dynamics from the parents reversed gender roles, to encouraging preschoolers to follow their dreams and seeking positive role models, as Doc wants to be a doctor just like her mom. Doc McStuffins teaches children problem solving, critical thinking, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and the basics of good personal hygiene.
Common Sense Media gave the show great ratings, stating that watching the show may encourage them to not be afraid of their own doctor’s visits. One IMDB user raved that because of Doc McStuffins, “my daughter and her friends can finally see themselves reflected back to them in a loving and respectful light.” You can catch Doc McStuffins weekday mornings at 10am/9c on Disney Junior. Check out a clip below:
