In today’s world, television plays a significant role in shaping children’s perceptions and values. As such, the content we select for our kids to watch is crucial. On July 13th, my 6-year-old twins had the chance to enjoy the premiere of Ridley Jones on Netflix. We were all captivated by Ridley, a brave and gentle girl who shares her adventures alongside her mother and grandmother.
Ridley, like many children her age, explores her surroundings with a sense of wonder. The Jones family resides in a unique treehouse located in a museum, where magical occurrences unfold at night as the artwork comes alive—a discovery Ridley makes in the very first episode. This show champions acceptance, highlights the significance of community, and encourages viewers to understand what it means to coexist and support one another.
Ridley’s companions are a vibrant crew, including Ismet, an ancient mummy, and Peaches, an astronaut monkey. Notably, Ridley Jones has made history by introducing Fred, a non-binary bison character. This inclusion comes at a time when society is increasingly recognizing the importance of pronouns and gender identity. Fred, voiced by Ezra Menas, who identifies as non-binary, serves as an educational tool, helping children understand and respect non-binary identities while promoting a culture of acceptance within the community.
In a world often focused on our differences, it’s vital that we teach our children to embrace each other’s uniqueness. As a queer parent, I want my children to learn to accept all individuals, regardless of their backgrounds or appearances. Characters like Fred empower kids to foster acceptance, and the show’s creator, producer, and LGBTQ mom, Jenna Parker, emphasizes the importance of representation. “I wanted to create a character that made kids like me feel seen and valued,” Jenna shares. “In introducing a non-binary character, I aimed to normalize such discussions among children.”
As I watched the series with my girls, I saw reflections of my own experience in characters like Mama Jones and Grandma Jones. The show’s portrayal of diverse family structures resonates with many viewers, including myself, who have experienced similar family dynamics. Mama Jones (voiced by Lily Thomas) and Grandma Jones (voiced by Diane Garrett) highlight the beauty of different family arrangements, showcasing that love and support come in many forms.
Jenna hopes that parents will recognize the importance of diverse representation and choose to show their children material that aligns with these values. “If you’re avoiding Ridley Jones due to its representation, you’re missing out,” she says. “These characters mirror our world and can help your kids appreciate diversity as they grow.” It’s essential that children, parents, and educators recognize that every family is unique yet equally valuable.
Inclusion is crucial. The narratives we share and consume matter greatly, especially as our children develop their worldviews. By exposing them to varied experiences and acceptance from a young age, we contribute to a more compassionate future. As Grandma Jones wisely advises, “Be patient and work hard.” We can all take this to heart as we strive to build inclusive communities. Programs like Ridley Jones invite us to open our hearts and minds to those who may be different from us, allowing our children to cultivate stronger, more accepting communities.
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Summary
Ridley Jones on Netflix is a groundbreaking children’s show that promotes acceptance and showcases diverse family structures, including the introduction of a non-binary character. This program helps children learn about inclusivity and the importance of community, providing valuable lessons for both kids and parents alike.
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