NPR:Question about Backyardigans

Purrrfect433

If there are 5, how come there are only 4 that are typically in any given episode? My kids just started liking this show, so we're new to it:) Can anyone explain this to me?! It bugs the crap out of me(among other things about the show that annoy me)

kevschickee2

for some reason when Tasha is on Austin isnt.  I think Austin has to go to his dads everyother weekend and Tasha goes the other weekends.  Really watch a few and see when Tasha is there Austin isnt

femmegem

There are a few episodes that all five of them are in, but many times there's at least one of them that isn't involved. Don't know why.

cristiana

I had noticed that but didn't know why. Both of my kids love the show, and it's because of them that the phrase "scurvy pirate" has made it into Rylann's everyday vocabulary.

TheNextWest

I have wondered that too. And can someone tell me what the crap animal Uniqua is?! L asks me all the time and I have yet to figure it out.

kevschickee2

she isnt a specific animal she is just unique lol

beta7

They never give an explanation for it.  But as PPs said, it is usually Tasha and Austin who alternate.  There are a bunch of episodes that have all of them, though (Secret of Snow, Tea Party, Who Goes There, etc.)  And yes, I know every single episode.  I am actually sooooo sad that DD doesn't like to watch anymore - it is by FAR the best/most intelligent preschool show out there.  Now we're stuck with her watching Mickey Mouse Clubhouse which IMO is crappy, boring, and unintelligent. 

If you are like me and want more info, look up the Backyardigans on Wikipedia - it tells you everything you could want to know and more!

shellbug79

I think it's b/c of child labor laws (kidding) or maybe some have ballet classes so they don't get to play all the time or baseball practice?  Makes complete sense to me, or maybe the one that is missing has detention?

Michelle

rebs

I can tell you guys that Uniqua is supposed to be a BUG.  I only know this b/c I ordered some labels for my niece and they had Backyardigans ones, and they were listed 'Pablo the penguin' and so on, and it said 'Uniqua the bug'.  Weirdest bug I've ever seen!

Purrrfect433

shellbug79:

I think it's b/c of child labor laws (kidding) or maybe some have ballet classes so they don't get to play all the time or baseball practice?  Makes complete sense to me, or maybe the one that is missing has detention?

Michelle

I like your answer the best, Shellbug79:) It MUST be because of child labor laws.

I just think they should make a point of explaining who is missing and why at the beginning, like: "Hey, where's Tasha?" "Oh, she's at the dentist today. Let's pretend were Mounties now(or some other such ridiculous imagination game that no real child would think up on their own) AND lets all sing and dance in unison!!!"

DaiLyght

Purrrfect433:

Let's pretend were Mounties now(or some other such ridiculous imagination game that no real child would think up on their own) AND lets all sing and dance in unison!!!"

Actually, the show originates in Canada, so it's not really weird at all for them to pretend to be Mounties. 

Purrrfect433

I guess? But, I still think their imaginations are over-active for such young animal-children. I suppose since it's supposed to be educational, that's the reason? I just find it contrived and unrealistic

Yes, I realize how sad it is for me to critique children's programming from an adult-viewpoint. But, I fear if I didn't, my mind might completely turn to mush from having to watch that shiit!