In today’s world, the content we expose our children to on television plays a pivotal role in their learning and development. On July 13th, my twin daughters, both 6 years old, watched the highly anticipated premiere of Ridley Jones on Netflix. We were all captivated by Ridley, a brave and compassionate young girl navigating life with curiosity and kindness.
Ridley, who is also 6, lives in a treehouse within a museum alongside her mother and grandmother. At night, the museum’s exhibits come alive, a magical discovery that unfolds in the show’s first episode. Ridley Jones champions acceptance, highlights the value of community, and encourages viewers to embrace the diverse tapestry of human experience.
Ridley’s companions are a vibrant mix, including Ismet, an ancient mummy, and Peaches, an astronaut monkey. Notably, Ridley Jones breaks ground as the first children’s show to feature a non-binary character, Fred the bison. In an era where inclusivity and understanding of pronouns are becoming increasingly important, Ridley Jones serves as an ideal introduction for children. Voiced by Ezra Menas, who identifies as non-binary, Fred offers insights into what it means to be non-binary and promotes respectful interactions within a loving community.
In a society often focused on differences, we must remember the importance of acceptance. As a member of the LGBTQ community, I believe it’s vital to teach our children about empathy and acceptance toward all individuals, regardless of their backgrounds. Characters like Fred not only enrich our kids’ understanding but empower them to foster acceptance.
Chris Neely, the show’s creator and a queer mom, shared her motivation behind Ridley Jones: “I grew up as a gay kid in the ’80s and didn’t see anyone on TV like me. I wanted to create a character that made kids like me feel more comfortable in their own skin.” This is why the introduction of a non-binary character was so crucial to her vision.
Watching the show, I recognized parts of myself in characters like Mama Jones and Grandma Jones. Ridley Jones illustrates that families come in various forms, challenging the notion that a family must consist of a traditional mom and dad. The dynamic between Mama Jones (voiced by Ava Grant) and Grandma Jones (voiced by Lila Brooks) reflects the realities many of us experience: a loving household with strong female figures who sometimes disagree.
Chris hopes that parents will welcome these diverse family structures as a means of normalizing different family dynamics. “If you’re avoiding Ridley Jones for that reason, you’re missing out,” she cautions, emphasizing that the characters mirror the real world. This exposure will help children engage with a variety of people as they grow.
Inclusion is paramount, and the stories we watch shape our children’s perceptions. During their formative years, instilling values of diversity and acceptance will undoubtedly have lasting effects. As Grandma Jones wisely states, “Be patient and work hard.” This journey toward inclusivity is one we can all embark on together.
Shows like Ridley Jones not only reflect the vibrant spectrum of family life and identity but also provide a platform for our children to learn about empathy and community—essential skills for building a more inclusive world.
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Summary
Ridley Jones on Netflix is an important show for children, promoting acceptance and diversity through its characters and storylines. It features the first non-binary character in a children’s series, encouraging young viewers to embrace differences and understand various family dynamics. The show’s creator, Chris Neely, aims to normalize diverse identities and family structures, making it a must-watch for families today.