Question : The Veggie Tales are tremendously popular with our grandkids. My husband thinks that all animation, whether it is veggies or something else, is not good. What is your opinion? Is it right to allow non-humans to talk?

Answer:Berit's impression, which is not a researched answer: I have only watched the Veggie Tales a few times, but I remember two concerns. The first one has to do with the talking plants. Today's emphasis on planetary oneness and interconnectedness promotes the pantheistic idea that humans, animals, and plants all equal members of one global bio-family. Giving human characteristics to plants and animals encourages children to accept this unbiblical notion as more normal and compassionate than God’s ways.

Second, the "cool" language of some of the characters seemed rude and disrespectful. Since children tend to enjoy these assertive attitudes and rude messages, they are likely to remember and imitate them. I don't remember the episodes well enough to comment on anything else.

The following letters offer a broader perspective and some positive points. I continue to have reservations. Remember, lessons in good character may be useful, but if these lessons are presented in a context or setting that conflicts with the Biblical world view, they can confuse a child's understanding of both of reality and of Scriptures. This danger may be more serious than the benefit from the repeated reminders of a good habit. However, I can't validate my concerns until I find time to buy and watch a few more of the Veggie Tales videos.