6 Kids Shows That Have Changed The Conversation

4. Doc McStuffins (Disney Jr.)

You might not expect groundbreaking television from a series designed for toddlers. So when Doc McStuffins came about on Disney Jr., its effects were felt far and wide. On the surface, the show is simply about a cute little girl who plays doctor for all of her stuffed animals. And it’s just that: very cute. But showrunners on this one have touched on something profound, teaching lessons before kids even realize they need them.

First and foremost, the show’s lead is an African-American girl. Prior to The Princess and The Frog, Disney doesn’t have the greatest track record with introducing African-American characters in general, much less appropriately. To make it even better, she’s a girl and a doctor, with a mother who is also a doctor. This combination of factors, put in front of such young eyes, helps normalize what should already be normal.

Now, stereotypes aside, Doc McStuffins has touched on one HUGE topic: consent. In the episode “Commander No,” Doc McStuffins teaches kids the importance of listening to the word “no.” When the animals are playing the tickling game, one in particular isn’t a fan. But when he says “stop,” they keep going. So, Doc McStuffins sets them straight: “When someone says stop, it’s time to stop!”

When she’s not talking through the hard stuff, Doc also teaches kids to identify and cure certain injuries and sicknesses. Rightfully so, she has been named one of the 26 best female cartoon characters ever.