Common Sense Media Review
By Stephanie Snyder
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Classic show offers culture, music, life lessons.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 2+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Gullah Gullah Island
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In GULLAH GULLAH ISLAND, the Alston family – dad Ron, mom Natalie, and children James, Vanessa, and Simeon – sing and dance their way through life on the very special island off the coast of South Carolina. Along with their friends, some special family members, and their pet pollywog Binyah Binyah, they learn about problem solving, getting along, and believing in themselves, as they explore the unique culture of Gullah Gullah Island.
Is It Any Good?
The generation that grew up watching this beloved show will be delighted that their children can grow up on it too. Gullah Gullah Island is a feel-good family show that's exposes young viewers to a culture and community most people know little about, but it has all the singing, dancing, and kinda-corny acting that little kids love in their favorite shows. It's a great starting point for conversations about diversity and further reading about Gullah/Geechee culture. For the latter, you don't have to look too far – a quick internet search for star Ron Daise will lead you to his treasure trove of Gullah culture preservation.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Gullah culture in Gullah Gullah Island. What makes Gullah Gullah Island such a special place? Did you learn anything about Gullah culture?
How do the characters work together to solve problems? What can you do the next time you face a problem?
Would you want to visit Gullah Gullah Island? Why or why not?
TV Details
- Premiere date: October 24, 1994
- Cast: Vanessa Baden , Ron Daise , Natalie Daise
- Networks: Nick Jr. , Paramount+
- Genre: Kids Musical TV
- Topics: Adventures , Friendship , Music and Sing-Along
- Character Strengths: Courage , Integrity , Teamwork
- TV rating: TV-Y
- Award: NAACP Image Award - NAACP Image Award Nominee
- Last updated: October 3, 2024
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
What to Watch Next
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate