Sensical

Sensical is a free, ad-supported streaming service offering age-appropriate, educational, and entertaining video content for children aged 2 to 10. It was launched on June 29, 2021, by Common Sense Networks, a for-profit Public Benefit Corporation and an affiliate of the non-profit organization Common Sense Media. Common Sense Networks was co-founded in 2020 by CEO Eric Berger, a media executive with previous leadership roles at Sony Pictures Television and Time Warner, where he developed extensive experience in streaming services like Sony Crackle. The platform's creation was inspired by the mission of its parent non-profit, Common Sense Media, which was founded in 2003 by James P. Steyer to provide families with trustworthy reviews and ratings for media and technology.

The service is designed to be a safe digital environment, distinguishing itself by being algorithm-free. Instead of relying on automated recommendations, all content, including every frame of every video, is vetted and rated by child development experts against a proprietary rubric. This process evaluates content based on developmental research to ensure it fosters social, emotional, and cognitive growth. The platform organizes its library of over 15,000 videos into three distinct age groups: preschoolers (2-4), little kids (5-7), and big kids (8-10), with content further categorized into over 50 interest-based topics.

Sensical's business model is centered on advertising revenue, which allows the service to be offered for free to users. The platform also vets its advertisers to ensure commercials are appropriate for its young audience. For parents, Sensical includes a "ParentZone" dashboard, a tool that allows them to monitor viewing activity, track what their children are learning through a "Learning Report," and set time limits. Sensical is available across a wide range of devices, including web browsers, iOS, Android, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and various smart TVs. In addition to on-demand content, the service provides age-specific live TV channels. The company has also expanded into FAST channels, such as Sensical Jr., Sensical Makers, and Sensical Gaming, to further distribute its curated content.

Keywords: children's media, kid-safe streaming, educational videos, age-appropriate content, parental controls, algorithm-free, child development, family-friendly, ad-supported video on demand, short-form video, Common Sense Media, digital citizenship, streaming for kids, online safety, FAST channels, Eric Berger, content curation, preschool content, kids entertainment, learning platform