Scooby-Doo Voted U.K.’s Favorite Kids’ Show

LONDON: A survey commissioned by Sky Kids to mark the recent launch of its new app reveals that the animated hit Scooby-Doo, which airs on Boomerang in the U.K., is the nation’s all-time favorite children’s TV series.

The research, which was conducted by 72 Point last month, surveyed a total of 2,300 parents and kids between the ages of 5 and 9 in the U.K. and Ireland. Scooby-Doo scored 23 percent of the vote for most-loved kids’ show among both children and parents, followed closely by Tom and Jerry at 22 percent. The other titles in the top 10 were SpongeBob SquarePants and Peppa Pig at 17 percent each, Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom with 14 percent, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles with 13 percent, Paw Patrol and Dora the Explorer at 12 percent each, Horrible Histories with 11 percent and Ben 10 with 10 percent.

The research also found that children re-watch their favorite program 53 times a year, compared to parents who admitted to still watching their favorite kids’ series a dozen times in the past 12 months. Among several reasons why children like to re-watch the same episode, 59 percent said it’s because “it’s funny,” 47 percent said “I like the adventures they go on” and 38 percent said it’s because they “love the characters.” Adults re-watch because of nostalgia (29 percent) and to bond with their little ones (21 percent).

Dr. Sam Wass, parenting expert and psychologist who’s contributed to Channel 4’s The Secret Life of 4-Year-Olds, commented: “As parents we spend so much time as the authority figure, imposing boundaries and setting rules, so sitting down to watch TV with your child can help to reset and recharge your relationship. I love that so many children voted for shows and cartoons that their parents also used to enjoy when they were young and that they are all available on the Sky Kids app. Watching and discussing these shows together will allow your child to see the child that was once in you.”

Lucy Murphy, the head of Sky Kids content, said: “It’s great to see Scooby-Doo standing the test of time and remaining a favorite amongst kids and parents. The Sky Kids app has thousands of episodes of kids’ TV shows, from traditional favorites like Tom and Jerry through to favorites today such as Ben & Holly, so children and parents alike can enjoy their most-loved shows.”