Mega popular kids show Hey Duggee, from Studio AKA and BBC Studios, has been a smash hit with both kids and parents ever since its debut in 2014. It’s also been praised for encouraging core skills and promoting learning through play. If you’re not sure what the latest is with the best kids shows, here’s the secret to the show’s enduring success.

It’s funny

Quirky and full of slightly zany British humour, Hey Duggee has gained a reputation over the years for being one of the funniest kids shows on TV.

Duggee, a big lovable dog runs a club for pre-schoolers called The Squirrel Club (side note-there are no actual squirrels involved in the series). Each episode the Squirrels –  take part in all kinds of activities and adventures, earning activity badges along the way. Episodes feature a main problem the Squirrels must solve to gain their activity badge. There are tons of goofy moments in each fast paced 7-minute episode that will have you and your little Squirrels literally laughing out loud.

It develops critical thinking

Like all top-notch kids shows, Hey Duggee is a show which will help your child learn important problem solving, teamwork and critical thinking skills, and think outside the box all whilst encouraging physical play and creativity.

In one episode, the team need to work together to help Snail move her things up a hill to her new home. Duggee helps them figure out the best way for everyone to work together to get the job done. In addition to promoting active learning, this approach also promotes the development of critical thinking and emphasises the importance of teamwork. Children are motivated to think creatively and explore alternative solutions to problems, with a concept as simple as helping a snail move homes.

It encourages creativity

Creativity encourages children to express themselves in unique and personal ways. This can boost their self-esteem and confidence and help them develop a sense of identity. Hey Duggee encourages this in an episode called ‘The Choreography Badge’. The Squirrel Club meet Duggee’s old dance crew and learn he was kicked out for not sticking to the choreography. They end up having a dance battle to see if Duggee’s moves can match the strict choreography of his old dance crew. In the end, everyone begins dancing like Duggee because it’s so fun and freeing. This motivates children to engage in active and imaginative play and encourages children to be authentic.

Hey Duggee, is  much more than just a big dog running around with his friends, it is also a valuable resource for promoting play, active learning, and creativity. By encourage learning through play, Hey Duggee helps kids learn important skills they need in life.

So, remember,  when it comes to your little ones watching TV, shows like Hey Duggee offer more than just entertainment – they can also help teach the important stuff!

Hey Duggee Series 4 is available on ABC Kids and ABC iview weekdays at 5.45pm.