As a member of several parenting groups, I've found that some mothers don't let their children watch Calliou. Meanwhile, other parents speak highly of the program.

My son has been watching Caillou for a couple of years now. It’s always been a favorite of his, so I was surprised to hear other moms from online and real life parenting groups talking about how they don’t let their children watch the show. When asked why they don’t like Caillou, almost all of them explained that they think Caillou is too “whiney.” In addition to these complaints, I found many negative blogs about the show online. Many of which used the word “brat” to describe the lead character.

Based on Research in Child Development

The Caillou television series is based on award-winning children’s books that were written by Christine L'Heureux and based on the work of world-reknown psychoanalyst, Dr. Francoise Dolto, who believed that children should be treated with respect. Caillou, the television series, first appeared in Canada in 1997 where it was immediately popular with preschoolers. Next, the series was developed for PBS and introduced to American audiences.

The show is different from many other preschool shows because the setting is realistic rather than filled with fantasy. While many other popular shows feature magical worlds and animals that talk, this series invites viewers into the day-to-day world of Caillou, an active four year old who appeals to both boys and girls. The show focuses on Caillou’s perspective as he deals with real life experiences such as his first trip to the dentist and his first time on an airplane as well as everyday activities such as staying in on a rainy day and making crafts with Grandma. Child psychiatrist, Dr. Nicole Nadeau, plays an active role in the production of the series as well as the books, ensuring that the stories shared are rooted in the latest research in children’s development.

My Thoughts on Caillou

As a parent and educator, I think this is an excellent show for young children and have absolutely no problem with my children watching it. The narrator of the show often talks about Caillou’s feelings as he’s going through these experiences. For example, if Caillou was planning to have a playdate that ended up being canceled, the narrator would be heard saying the following: “Caillou felt sad when he realized that Clementine wasn't coming over.” The narrator conveys Caillou’s feelings of frustration, embarrassment, and of course, happiness which helps young viewers learn to use “feeling words” in their own lives.

Something else I like about the show is that Caillou's parents provide loving guidance and allow Caillou to feel “heard” and acknowledged, which is especially important for preschoolers who are upset. I feel that we live in a society where, often times, only positive emotions are welcomed by parents of young children and that this lack of empathy can have a negative impact on their development. Children need to be able to express their feelings to their caregivers, and Caillou helps them learn language to accurately describe these emotions. As for the “whiney” voice that many complain of, I agree that his normal speaking voice is a bit high-pitched, but it is my understanding that this young male character is actually played by a female voice actor. While it is true that Caillou expresses his frustration vocally, I am comfortable with this and encourage my own children to use "I feel" messages to describe their feelings.

Discussion Welcome

Do you allow your child to watch this program? If so, what are your thoughts? I’d also love to hear from you! Share your opinion in the forum.

Trivia: In French, “Calliou” means pebble but can also mean bald head!

Sources: Chouette Publishing and PBS KIDS

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