When I was a kid, I always enjoyed watching "Zoom." It was funny, entertaining, and educational - AND I clearly recall having a huge crush on a ZOOMer named Danny. Now ZOOM has been revamped for the new millenium, and it's good to know that kids have not become too sophisticated to enjoy the art projects, science experiments, and corny jokes that made the show such a hit all those years ago.

The best thing about ZOOM is the delightfully multicultural mix of kids, kids who are cute but not overly so, kids who are, in fact, refreshingly natural. Whether they are trying to see how long they can keep a feather aloft by blowing on it, building an arch out of cardboard boxes, or making a yogurt parfait, Alysa, Keiko, Pablo, Jared and the rest are obviously having a good time. They flub lines, collapse into hysterical giggles, and tease each other, making the viewers at home feel that these could easily be classmates or the kids next door.

ZOOM is written by kids, for kids, and so it has things kids want to see and do. There are brainteasers, games, riddles, home videos, and special guests, like a girl who trains her dog for Frisbee competitions. And there is Ubbi Dubbi, a secret language that is a carryover from the original series. Some of the projects are really neat - making a biosphere, painting wrapping paper using marbles, and so on. The jokes and riddles are silly, but of course kids will find them quite hilarious.
Overall, the show is probably less "educational" than it is just good clean fun, and the games and projects are all things can can easily be tried at home. It's a nice, interactive change from mindless cartoons and video games; it encourages kids to participate, use their creativity, and think. I recommend ZOOM for children ages 6- 12.



Recommended: Yes