Parents' Guide to
Spyology Squad
Common Sense Media Review
By Mary Field
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Science adventure podcast, with limited science.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Listen
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's It About?
SPYOLOGY SQUAD is a fictional storytelling show. Dr. Stickybreath and the Purple Ninjas create problems that the Spyology Squad, led by Mr. Jim, work together to solve. One day they're leading a group of badgers back to their homes to keep them from destroying critical water resources, another they're working to bring down a giant blimp that's shooting out sticky goo and creating chaos on the ground. Mr. Jim shares science facts with the Spyology Squad members, Ava and Jayden, to help the team solve each challenge they face. Stories are usually spread throughout three episodes and each episode is about 10 minute each. Creator, Mr. Jim, voices all the characters, including unique voices for the Purple Ninjas and Dr. Stinkybreath.
Is It Any Good?
With stereotypical storylines and limited fact-based science elements, this show has potential, but falls short. The writing within Spyology Squad episodes feels amateur compared to other adventure podcasts available for kids. Many included details don't contribute to the storyline, making the show hard to follow at times. While the intention is clearly to integrate science learning into the podcast, this element misses the mark. The themes from each story don't center around science concepts or targeted science standards. While fictional ideas make the stories more exciting (mythical plants, kids flying around with jetpacks), it gets confusing when trying to sort through real science facts vs entertaining fictional details. The three short weekly episodes contributing to one full story make for an unnecessarily choppy listen.
The podcast is missing critical elements, including individualized episode show notes summarizing the content of each episode (and adding to accessibility standards), a consistent show name across streaming platforms, and content of storylines aligning to the description of the show which emphasizes science learning.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how the team in Spyology Squad works together to keep the world safe. How does teamwork help when trying to do good in the world? Can you think of a time you worked with your peers and adults to reach a goal?
What's the difference between fiction and non-fiction details in a story? How do you decide if details are fiction or non-fiction? Is it easier or harder to learn about science if it's mixed with non-fiction elements?
Podcast Details
- Release date: April 4, 2022
- Genre: Adventure
- Average Run Time: 10 minutes
- Website: https://www.spyologysquad.com/
- Production Companies and Networks: Mr. Jim , iHeartPodcasts
- Pricing structure: Free
- Topics: Adventures
- Last updated: August 23, 2024
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