Poster for The Wiggles

The Wiggles

A great pick

Ages 3–6First shown 1998

While performing songs for children, the Wiggles are joined by their many friends.

Our verdict

  • Good influence 5/5
  • Parent appeal 5/5
  • Well made 4/5

Calm and gentle No grating audio

Reviewers consistently praise the show for its high-quality music and its foundation in early childhood education, which ensures the content is both developmentally appropriate and respectful. While some older episodes show their age with simple production values, parents find the series uniquely enjoyable to watch with their children due to its wit and genuine musical talent. It is highly regarded for modeling kindness, inclusivity, and positive social behavior in a calm, low-stimulation environment.

Why these scores

Good influence

Does it show behaviour you'd be happy to see copied?

5out of 5

The show is widely praised for its gentle, respectful approach to children and its strong pro-social messages about teamwork and kindness. Reviewers highlight the inclusion of diverse topics like disability and the subversion of gender stereotypes through dance, though there is some historical disagreement regarding the ethnic diversity of the earlier cast. Many note that the performers' backgrounds in early childhood education ensure the behavior modeled is developmentally appropriate.

Parent appeal

Will you enjoy watching it with them?

5out of 5

Most parents find the show highly engaging, citing the quality of the 'pub rock' influenced music and the inclusion of subtle humor specifically for adults. While the vast majority describe it as a rare children's show they genuinely enjoy, a few reviewers find certain newer segments or facial expressions to be cringeworthy or off-putting. Overall, it is frequently described as a pleasant experience that adults can enjoy alongside their children.

Well made

Are the writing, animation and sound made with care?

4out of 5

The series is celebrated for its expert songwriting and choreography, which are deeply rooted in early childhood development principles. While some critics point out the low production budget and 'grainy' visuals of the earlier seasons, others argue the simple sets and expressive performances are highly effective for the target age. Some recent commentary suggests a dip in quality in newer iterations, noting simpler lyrics and less impressive vocal range compared to the original cast.

Watch-outs

Calm and gentle

The original series is consistently described as calm, slow-paced, and low-stimulation, avoiding the rapid cuts common in other children's media. While a few reviewers note that some very recent music has become more intense or 'electronic,' the overwhelming consensus for the 1998 series is that it is a mellow and safe viewing experience.

Toy-led: not enough data

We haven't found enough independent sources to say yet.

No grating audio

While many parents note that the songs are 'earworms' that get stuck in their heads, this is generally framed as a testament to their catchiness rather than a complaint about quality. There are some reports of newer songs being overly repetitive or electronic, but the music from the main series is typically described as high-quality and pleasing to listen to.

Where to watch

Stream for free

  • Not that we know of

Stream with a subscription

  • Not that we know of

Rent or buy

  • Not that we know of

DVD and Blu-ray

Last updated 14 October 2026.