Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that this stunning historical look at America's national parks from award-winning filmmaker Ken Burns is an excellent pick for families. More than just a collection of awe-inspiring sights, the series is also a gripping history lesson that touches on the economic, political, sociological, and geological forces at play during the formative years of America's past. While its content is mostly appropriate for any age, it will be best appreciated by tweens and teens who already have some knowledge of American history.

Sexual Content

Not applicable.

Violence

Men and women are shown with guns in historical photos, and the narrative sometimes includes details of the physical hardships pioneers endured while navigating the wilds of future national parks.

Language

Very rare use of "hell."

Social Behavior

The series celebrates the American spirit and the equalizing effect of democracy -- as reflected in the concept that the country's most spectacular treasures should belong to all citizens equally. The subject matter raises awareness of issues like deforestation and conservation. Though some content mentions the existence of indigenous people on the lands acquired by the government, not much time is devoted to describing how the change affected them.

Consumerism

Not applicable

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Not applicable