Parents' Guide to

Surviving Summer

TV Netflix Drama 2022
Surviving Summer TV show: poster image

Common Sense Media Review

Stephanie Morgan By Stephanie Morgan , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 10+

Aussie teen surfing drama has positive, predictable themes.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 10+?

Any Positive Content?

courage, <a href=https://www.commonsensemedia.org/tv-reviews/"/articles/how-can-i-use-media-to-teach-my-kid-perseverance">perseverance, <a href=https://www.commonsensemedia.org/tv-reviews/"/articles/how-can-i-use-media-to-teach-my-kid-compassion">compassion, and <a href=https://www.commonsensemedia.org/tv-reviews/"/articles/how-can-i-use-media-to-teach-my-kid-teamwork">teamwork along the way. Over the course of the season, Summer realizes that her happiness isn't the only thing that's important, especially if others are suffering.</p> ">

Parent and Kid Reviews

age 13+

Based on 12 parent reviews

age 15+

Second season not as appropriate

I watched this series with my 11 year old,;The first season is appropriate at most levels for a 10 plus rating; there is some crush/kissing situations that go on but nothing that bad; however in the 2nd season the kids are more older teenagers and party, partake in alcohol and destroy property; all with a positive message because there is little to no grown up involvement; the big issue I had was the relationships; there is a lot more kissing/ sneaking off during parties to be alone; in one episode the new girl friend suggests she goes to the tent/room of the Ari and he goes into his room to get condoms to use. At this point we were done watching the show.
age 15+

Partying, drinking, sneaking off to have sex. 100% NOT 10 and up.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (12 ):
Kids say (22 ):

The gorgeous setting, upbeat soundtrack, and stunning surfing shots make this a series that will immediately pull in the viewer. Unfortunately, there's not a lot of reason to stick around once the visual impact of Surviving Summer begins to fade. The coming-of-age story that involves some of the most wholesome surfers ever depicted on screen who meet a big-city rebel who gets into as much trouble as possible isn't breaking any molds. It will, however, appeal to pre-teens who are ready for slightly more grown-up thrills. Parents will appreciate the absence of sex, drugs, and alcohol, as well as the lessons the kids learn along the way. But they won't actually enjoy watching it very much. Stiff performances and a lack of chemistry, in both friendships and romantic relationships, mean the series never fully catches a wave.

TV Details

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