Jurassic World: Chaos Theory (TV-PG)
Tween adventure features fun, friendship and ferocious dinos.
“Jurassic World: Chaos Theory” is an animated series that picks up the plot from the “Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous” show. It’s lots of fun, but the scare factor is pretty high, with lots of realistic-seeming dinosaurs attacking teenagers. Expect jump scares aplenty. While the dinosaurs don’t succeed in harming their teenage prey on-screen, a major plot point revolves around how one of the teenagers from “Camp Cretaceous” was killed by a dinosaur. It seems like dinos are hunting the rest of the former campers, so many scenes are filled with ominous suspense. Teens use weapons like tranquilizer guns on the dinosaurs. They also use mild language like “crud,” “heck,” “stupid” and “dork.” Like “Camp Cretaceous,” “Chaos Theory” has compelling teenage characters; an interesting plot; and messages about communication, courage and teamwork. (10 episodes)
Sweet YA-based coming-of-age story has mean girls and romance.
“Geek Girl” is a TV series inspired by Holly Smale’s young-adult book series of the same name. It follows neurodivergent teenager Harriet Manners (Emily Carey), a self-identified geek who becomes a fashion model. Harriet has to endure “mean girl” behavior, like being called insults such as “freak” and “loser” and the “cool girl” posting an embarrassing video of her on social media. And it’s not just other teenagers — adults in the fashion industry are also cruel to Harriet. While it’s not the main storyline, a big part of the plot is Harriet’s romance with fellow model Nick (Liam Woodrum). They kiss, and while they’re both conventionally beautiful models, their relationship is personality-based. Even though this is a show about modeling and fashion, the plot isn’t focused on characters’ bodies or appearances. (10 episodes)
Donkey Hodie Bedtime Stories (TV-Y)
Popular puppet and friends read and teach calming techniques.
“Donkey Hodie Bedtime Stories” is a series of shorts featuring the characters from the “Donkey Hodie” TV series. There are a few illustrations of dinosaurs crying, but their problem is quickly resolved. Otherwise, there’s no iffy content, and the videos are suitable for even the littlest viewers. The stories model positive sleep routines and could fit into kids’ own bedtime routines, but parents should keep in mind that any screen time before bed could disrupt kids’ sleep. (Eight episodes)
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