Nostalgia Avenue: Tuning Back to Childhood Edutainment Shows

ARTICLE: Edwynne Lucy Guarin and Ma. Emmylou Solidum | December 14, 2023

Before the internet and adulthood took center stage, television ruled our daily lives. Suspended classes on rainy mornings or carefree afternoons meant tuning in for cartoons and children's shows, especially educational content blended with entertainment also known as edutainment series.

More than mere amusement, these shows shaped us into better children, so gather 'round, fellow '90s and early 2000s kids for a fanciful stroll down Nostalgia Avenue! Let's unlock the treasure chest of these 8 edutainment shows and rediscover the magic that made our childhood special.

1. Hi-5

With energetic educational melodies for preschoolers, this show featured five performers who turned education into a cross-cultural musical adventure. Popular among Filipino children, TV5 franchised the show, and the Filipino version debuted in June 2015.

Hi-5's multicultural cast taught us that friendship and fun have no borders and that diversity is at the heart of learning—play, movement, and music weren't side characters; they were the protagonists of the learning narrative.

2. Wansapanataym

Playing with the phrase "once upon a time,” this show is not just about fantastical adventures; it was a moral compass cleverly disguised in magical narratives.

From the dire consequences of greed to the heartwarming rewards of kindness, each episode ensures that values are enchantingly imparted. Tailored for Filipino kids and teens, "Wansapanataym" went beyond cultural boundaries, instilling values, including honesty, contentment, and self-love.

3. Bilib

Enter the realm of science and fear not the dullness, for this show banished that notion through channeling the flair of Japan's science TV and seamlessly blending experiments, facts, and theories into a mesmerizing spectacle.

Chris Tiu's skillful guidance makes complicated science lessons easily digestible. The show's unique charm extends to its hands-on approach, through fun experiments allowing viewers to grasp scientific laws and principles. "iBilib" proved that exploring the wonders of the universe isn't confined to textbooks; it's an immersive experience, brimming with excitement and discovery.

4. Jollitown

Halina’t magsaya… si best friend Jollibee narito na!

Let’s visit one of our favorite towns with our ‘bestest’ friend, Jollibee—together with Yum, Popo, Hetty, and Twirlie!

As children, we think of “Jollitown” as the best place for children to live because it has kindness, friendship, teamwork, and other positive traits that we ideally want children to acquire. Aside from mentioned, the jolly gang instilled a sense of self-love at an early age, which has helped us develop confidence as we grew older.

5. Batibot

In the early 2010s street, we’ll be heading to the country's oldest informative children’s show. Here, we will once again meet the kindest Kiko Matsing, Manang Bola, Kuya Mario, and Ate Maya—our great companions during those years!

This program showed us kids' relatable day-to-day issues while transporting us into different realms through educating life skills rather than the usual ABCs and 123s—being an outlet for elevating our Filipino culture. A remarkable part of our younger years, indeed!

6. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse

Taking a few steps towards another house, we arrive at Mickey Mouse’s famous clubhouse. But before going inside, we have to knock and let the characters welcome us—Mickey, Minnie, Daisy, Donald, and many more!

We learned the basics of mathematics and grammar rules from Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, which also offers educational opportunities that allow us to express ourselves creatively through drawing, singing, and dancing. A highly compelling show!

7. Barney & Friends

Retrospecting in the space of another group of easy-going playmates, let’s now visit “Barney & Friends!”

This show exhibited that love is shareable to anyone. It provides children with an understanding that each individual is unique and that respecting those differences is crucial. Plus, it imparted the value of companionship, demonstrating what it means to be a supportive companion and to be there for others in times of need. How can we ever forget about this show? Its theme song even left a mark on us—even us Filipinos have a unique version of it.

8. Wonder Pets

Walking towards the end of Nostalgia Avenue, we see three exceptional characters waiting outside for us—Linny, Ming-Ming, and Tuck! Known for their consistent creative solutions as a team, the “Wonder Pets” demonstrate that even a small group can make a change if they combine their resources.

Sincerity compels these heroes to rescue others’ lives which gives us the values of empathy and compassion. They resolve conflicts by means of music as a powerful form of self-expression, validating that music can help in any situation and can send crucial messages.

As we finish our sensational trip on Nostalgia Avenue, it is truly an undeniable fact that these shows were moving reminders of storytelling’s profound influence throughout our lives, from childhood to adulthood. The catchy tunes, vibrant personas, and valuable lessons from these edutainment shows transcend the boundaries of the television screen.

By reliving these treasures, we not only pass on our childhood’s magic to the next generation, but we also contribute to the legacy of educational programs that have unparalleled capacities to shape young minds for a more vibrant, better-informed future.