Growing Up

Growing Up is a very touching and well thought out docu-series. With so many inspiring stories it really speaks to my heart and made me think.

This series, created by Brie Larson, is about a lot of different heroes including Gavin Arneson whose story is about poverty, Sofia Ongele whose story is about meeting expectations and Amiri Nash whose story is about growing up Black and gay, along with many others. They all share their stories of growing up that ranges from living in poverty, or depression, and of friendship. Throughout this series there are many different lessons and stories to be learned and shared.

Growing Up incorporates so many amazing things. There are well thought out moments such as connecting to one's younger self. There is often an actor portraying the younger version of the person speaking and we see them hug or hold hands with each other. There are also many different reenactments that enhance the way the person's story is told like a prom scene or a summer camp scene. One scene that is particularly striking is in the Gavin episode, the last episode of the season, when he gives his graduation speech. Instead of finding the actual people that were there, the other heroes are listening to him. Then, to top the whole scene off, we see actual footage from his graduation speech. Another thing that impressed me is how these heroes are willing to share their stories. It can often be frightening to share your personal life story on screen for so many to see, and these heroes really stepped up to the plate. Another big part of this series is having a room where all the heroes sit to tell each other their stories; this room is shown repeatedly throughout the series and often heroes from different episodes talk to the hero currently sharing their story.

The message of this docu-series is to always be yourself, love yourself and know you are never alone.

I give Growing Up 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, as well as adults. This series begins streaming on Disney+ September 8, 2022. By Avalon N., KIDS FIRST!

Excellent to see this new generation give voice to near universal challenges of adolescence by taking agency to change those circumstances for themselves and all who come after them.

From homeless to body image, to race and gender identity, the cast is representative of many challenges facing teens today. Nearly all families will be able to relate and to find inspiration in the to identify, understand and meet the challenges that have faced generations of adolescents.

It's so helpful to see the families of the youth, to hear the heart-wrenching and heart-warming stories, unscripted and honest, directly from this diverse cohort, in their own words. And each has created solutions to meet the challenges for themselves and for others. The viewer goes on an emotional journey in each episode, seeing themselves reflected in either the parents or the youth and then is uplifted by the love and the answers and the ways forged ahead.

Wonderful viewing-rated PG- for adolescents and their families. Also would be an invaluable resource for educators and policymakers.

A MUST WATCH!