Playtime's Over, Parental Guidance Suggested for 'Bluey'

Bluey has gone from a darling little show about a family of cartoon dogs on Disney+ to one of the biggest TV sensations in history, but is it really as kid-friendly as it appears? It’s not all Keepy Uppy at the Heeler house.

An animated scene depicts two blue heeler dogs in a cozy kitchen. One dog, standing up, is holding a cake adorned with a character's face, while the smaller dog looks on. The warmly lit kitchen features various decorations, including a green hutch and plants, reminiscent of Disney's enchanting settings. — Credit: Ludo Studio

It’s no secret that the beloved Australian animated series is built leagues different from other cartoons, and the creative team at Ludo Studio has taken extra steps to make it stand out. However, for every episode about playing nicely with your little sibling, there are episodes that talk about depression, dread, and even death.

Bluey has rarely strayed away from the dark or complex subject matter, but some of its episodes are designed to encourage dialogue between parents and children. The show will always have a family-friendly focus, but there are a few episodes in which some parental guidance might be encouraged.

Yes, Bluey Went There

Bluey and Chilli underneath a double rainbow — Credit: Ludo Studios

At the time of writing, the season consists of three seasons and 154 episodes. While most of them simply explore the Heeler family at play, many take a dark turn before the credits roll.

Inside the Magic has spoken on the subject of mature Bluey episodes before, but there are certain episodes that are essentially designed for parents and kids to watch together as a family. While these episodes might not dive into overly scandalous material, subjects like change, emotional health, and the passing of a loved one are inevitable topics that shouldn’t be ignored.

It should be noted that while the show still maintains its cute and colorful status, it dives into intense themes its young audience will eventually have to overcome without compromising it. Creative and emotional maturity like that is what separates the Blueys of the world from the Peppa Pigs.

“Copycat” (Season 1, Episode 38)

Bluey and Bandit find the injured bird — Credit: Ludo Studio

Getting rid of the elephant in the room, “Copycat” introduces the subject of death by having Bluey and Bandit stumble upon an injured budgie while playing outside. Bandit helps Bluey understand and cope with her emotions when the bird doesn’t make it.

If there’s one universal theme that all exceptional children’s programming needs to tackle with extreme caution, it’s the subject of death. Shows like Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood and Sesame Street have addressed this, but Bluey sets a realistic scenario that gives the parents a blueprint for talking about it in a soft and safe way.

“Space” (Season 3, Episode 34)

Mackenzie walks through the tunnel — Credit: Ludo Studio

Sometimes, the best Bluey episodes are when she takes a backseat. “Space” tackles the subject of abandonment and trauma as Rusty, Mackenzie, and Jack embark on a make-believe expedition to the final frontier, and it’s truly more telling than first-time viewers might know.

Contrary to what some might believe, kids are more complex individuals than some might assume. As Calypso’s sage advice aided Mackenzie’s struggle with his past abandonment trauma, parents in the room should be taking notes on how to help their kids when intense emotions overcome them they can’t really explain.

“Stickbird” (Season 3 Episode 41)

Bandit and Bingo in Stickbird — Credit: Ludo Studio

While we’ve seen Chilli finding it difficult to relax while on holiday, Bandit’s struggle with his mental health doesn’t go unnoticed by his pups. Especially when Bingo witnesses the beheading of their titular sand sculpture.

Children see, children do. This episode not only dives into adult mental health but also into how the family unit is affected by those struggling with issues like depression. Just as Bandit and Bingo learned how to manage their hurt in a healthy way, parents and kids can do the same whenever things get tough.

“The Sign” (Season 3, Episode 49)

Bluey and her family dance at a wedding. — Credit: Ludo Studio

This 28-minute special did more than have Rad and Frisky tie the knot. It explored quite possibly the most heart-gripping episode of Bluey in its run’s history. A big backyard wedding and the transition to a new house and new city are massive life changes, and change can be challenging for hundreds of audience members.

The biggest lesson Bluey could ever teach its viewers is how to cope with change, and that’s precisely what both kids and parents need to take away from “The Sign.” Life happens, and sometimes it’s not always fixed by a kind word from a cartoon dog. It’s undoubtedly the most emotional episode, and family viewing is practically demanded because of that fact.

Has Bluey helped you or your kids tackle complex subjects? Let Inside the Magic know in the comments down below!