Popular Australian kids’ TV show Bluey could have more benefits than simply entertainment.
Experts say the world’s biggest show for children could equip its young viewers with the skills to build long-term resilience.
CQUniversity researchers say the adventures of the famous blue heeler’s family could have lifelong mental health benefits.
Townsville mental health practitioner Kelly Bohl analysed 150 episodes of the show, and found half modelled resilience-building behaviours.
Almost two-thirds of those examples were taught by one of the blue heeler parents.
“Resilience refers to the capacity to handle challenges, and it’s evident that fostering a resilient mindset during childhood equips individuals to deal with difficulties throughout life,” stated Bohl.
“As I began watching Bluey—despite being an adult without young children but keen on content that promotes positivity—I observed that the characters consistently exemplify lessons in emotional endurance, coping mechanisms, and bouncing back from setbacks.”
The team behind the research is encouraging parents to watch alongside their kids and talk about how they can be resilient like Bluey.
First launched on ABC Kids in 2018, the cartoon has become a global sensation, winning BAFTA and Emmy awards.
It was the most-watched television series in the USA last year, with more than 842 million hours viewed.
