Common Sense Media Review
By Stephanie Snyder
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Special with minor conflicts reminds us change can be good.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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5 More Sleeps 'Til Christmas
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In 5 MORE SLEEPS 'TIL CHRISTMAS, the unnamed main character meticulously plans a fun-filled, tradition-packed countdown to his favorite holiday. With only five sleeps left before the big day, he wakes up ready to take on his first tradition with his mom. To his dismay, his mom has invited her boyfriend, Michael, and his daughter, Evie, to spend Christmas with them. Surprised, but not discouraged, the main character sets off to continue with his plans. Unfortunately for him, his traditions get disrupted time and time again, no matter how badly he wants them to stay the same. The main character is annoyed by Evie, who is interested in developing a friendship with him -- after all, they could end up being step-siblings. Evie accompanies him through his planned activities, and though they don't go the way he'd anticipated, he's pleasantly surprised more than he's frustrated...that is, until one night when Evie makes an innocent mistake. Rattled by what he feels is a major misstep, the main character lashes out at Evie, causing a reaction that he didn't expect from her. Their reconciliation leads to a major realization about the spirit of Christmas.
Is It Any Good?
This simple Christmas story deals with complex experiences, feelings, and themes. 5 More Sleeps 'Til Christmas is a holiday special that addresses the joy and difficulty of growing up. Young viewers will relate to the feelings of excitement and anticipation of the holiday season. Some may see their own experiences reflected as the main character struggles with his mother's attempt at blending their family. Parents and kids may identify with the social awkwardness and conflict that can come with the holidays. Some viewers will delight in seeing racially ambiguous characters and a mixed-race family being represented.
A few plot holes may raise eyebrows, especially from grown-ups. Let's be real -- who lets little kids decorate the Christmas tree by themselves? Those same grown-ups may or may not let their opinion (good or bad) of Jimmy Fallon (and his talent as a narrator) interfere with their viewing of 5 More Sleeps 'Til Christmas. The unique computer animation makes the show visually appealing and distracts from those minor issues. Families are left with a show that gets them in the holiday spirit and gives them lots to discuss.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about holiday traditions in 5 More Sleeps 'Til Christmas. What are the main character's favorite holiday traditions? What are your favorite holiday traditions?
Create a calendar counting down to your favorite holiday or upcoming event. What traditions will you include in your countdown? What will you do on the special day? How does counting down build excitement?
Change can be hard to accept. How do you feel when things in your life change? Do you think change is good or bad? What can you do to accept change in your life?
TV Details
- Premiere date: November 26, 2021
- Cast: Jimmy Fallon , James Larson , Esme Jan , Kari Wahlgren , Affion Crockett
- Network: NBC
- Genre: Kids' Animation
- Topics: Book Characters , Brothers and Sisters , Friendship , Holidays
- TV rating: TV-PG
- Last updated: December 9, 2021
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