Top 30 Things in Bluey Only Adults Understand

#30: Bandit’s Fortune

“Takeaway”

Poor Bandit can’t even go out for takeaway without pandemonium breaking out. While waiting for the spring rolls, he is forced to contend with Bluey and Bingo’s boredom and scramble to keep the peace. However, when the kids are given fortune cookies, Bandit reads a rather insightful fortune with advice that any parent should listen closely to. Kids may be a handful, but they won’t stay young forever. They’ll grow up eventually, and every moment spent with them before then is sacred. Realizing this, Bandit decides to keep letting his two girls keep having fun, not wanting to waste a precious moment with them before it’s too late.

#29: Parental Appreciation

“The Pool”

Bluey, Bingo, and Bandit are spending the day at the pool, but Chilli nags them to remember to bring the necessities – not just the fun things. The trio shrug her off as just being a ‘boring fusspot,’ but they’re eating their words when pool time is almost ruined without the ‘boring’ supplies. Luckily, Chilli saves the day by bringing everything they left behind. Being a mother can be a thankless job, but one that’s got to be done for the safety and well-being of your children. In the end, Bluey and Bingo gain a newfound appreciation for the ‘boring’ things in life and are once again reminded why their mom is a rockstar.

#28: Sleepless With Kids

“Sleepytime”

Bingo is determined to have a “Big girl sleep” tonight. While she stays asleep the whole night, dreaming of a fantastic voyage across the solar system... Chilli and Bandit are in for a long night. If you're a parent, does any of this look familiar? Waking up to get your kid a glass of water, singing to them when you’re barely awake, the kicking of little sleepy feet, and never getting to rest in your own bed? But, like the champions they are, Chilli and Bandit power through it all to make sure their girls make it through the night, and that final shot of everyone peacefully asleep is like a welcome sight that any parent hopes to achieve.

#27: Handling Neurodiversity

“Army”

Jack is the new kid in school, but he’s having a bit of trouble – he has difficulty remembering things, sitting still, and paying attention. It’s not his fault; he’s clearly showing signs of ADHD. It happens to plenty of kids, and many adults, too. Thankfully, Jack’s new friend Rusty gives him the help he needs – instead of lecturing him, he helps Jack stay focused through their game, and together, they finish patrolling the schoolyard safely. Also, the way Rusty doesn't try to CHANGE Jack, but helps him adapt, is nothing short of wholesome, proving that a person just needs a little patience and understanding to overcome their problems.

#26: Missing Grandpa Bob

“Bedroom”

We first met Nana Chris and Grandpa Bob when Bluey taught the two how to floss. While Chris became a recurring face on the show, Bob seemingly vanished for a while - outside of photos and flashbacks. One episode almost made it sound to us like Bob might be away dealing with dementia… or maybe something worse. While the kids are missing their Grandpa, we’re trying not to assume the worst. But don’t worry, Bob is alive and very well. He had just left to do some soul searching in India - something a lot of us might find ourselves doing as we get older, but we’re pleased to see him back in his family’s lives.

#25: Mommy Struggles

“Calypso”

It’s another fun day in the classroom as Chloe, Coco, and Indy are pretending to be moms looking after their babies. Chloe pretends to be wiped out, dramatically emphasizing what a long night with no sleep she’s had. A later episode shows Chloe’s mother and baby brother, where she mentions how he keeps her up all night, so it’s easy to see where Chloe picked this up. Honestly, there isn’t a parent alive who can’t relate to this. While being a parent is very rewarding, getting a full night's sleep doesn’t come with the territory, and taking care of kids after hours is almost always guaranteed when they’re younger.

#24: Teaching Grief

“Copycat”

What starts as a fun game of Bluey annoying Bandit by copying him takes an unexpected turn when the two come across an injured budgie on the ground. They take it to the vet, but it’s sadly too late, as the little budgie dies soon after. Whether we like it or not, death is a subject everyone has to learn about eventually, but helping kids understand it is a difficult process. Fortunately, Bandit demonstrates one of the best ways to help a child understand – to remain calm and collected during the ordeal, while gently reminding them that whatever happens is beyond their control. Most of all, be ready with comforting hugs when you both need them.

#23: Bluey’s OTHER Nana?

“Dragon”

Throughout the first three seasons of the show, we’ve slowly met more and more of Chilli’s side of the family, except for one – her mother, Nana Cattle. We finally get a glimpse of what she was like in the episode “Dragon” ...but it’s heartbreaking to watch. Bluey doesn’t even recognize her other Nana, and Chilli keeps mentioning her in the past tense. While it’s not outright stated, it’s safe to assume that Nana Cattle is no longer with us. The final shot of Chilli saying goodbye to her horse almost perfectly represents her letting go of the pain of losing her mom. Kids might not pick up on this, but parents will be sobbing like babies in the end.

#22: The Importance of Being Tidy

“Duck Cake”

Once again, poor Bandit’s parenting skills are put to the test – trying to make the world’s hardest birthday cake for Bingo AND convince Bluey to pick up her toys. When the cake task becomes too overwhelming, Bandit gets a pleasant surprise – Bluey cleaned up the mess all by herself, without being told to. Bandit’s appreciation makes her tail wag and motivates her to pick up all the toys in the living room. Cleaning may seem like a chore, but adults understand just how satisfying the results are, especially when doing so makes someone else happy. Hopefully, this will inspire Bluey to be a little tidier from now on.

#21: Double Rainbow

“Rain”

After a chaotic, fun day of playing in the rain, Bluey and Chilli are greeted with a remarkable sight – a double rainbow in the sky. Double rainbows are very rare and considered a symbol of hope, leading older audiences to make a distinct connection to two certain pups – Bluey and Bingo. Given what we know about Chilli’s miscarriage, many have started seeing the two as “Rainbow babies,” children who were born after a mother had lost another during pregnancy. While the exact point of Chilli’s miscarriage wasn’t clear, it’s hard not to make the comparison, considering she was blessed with two little miracles. Perhaps the double rainbow was nature’s way of cheering her on.

#20: Low Effort Playing

“Hospital”

Any adult who’s found themselves exhausted after hanging out with children for an extended period of time will relate to Bandit here. The dad is always willing to play with his daughters, but keeping up with kids can be challenging, not to mention physically taxing. Lots of activities require him to lift and carry the girls, which can get tiring after a while. After simulating mountain climbing with then-four-year old Bingo, Bandit doesn’t have it in him to play the same way with his oldest. So he tries his luck and suggests finding a game that requires minimal effort on his part. Unfortunately for him, the girls come up with an activity that’s even more physically discomforting.

#19: Free & Easy Days

“The Claw”

Raising children can be one of the most rewarding things there is. That being said, it’s also incredibly time consuming. Bandit makes a quip about this while simulating a claw machine for his girls. His joke probably eludes Bluey and Bingo, but it certainly lands with older viewers, especially those who are parents themselves. The Blue Heeler obviously doesn’t regret his choice to become a dad, but his playful resentment towards the loss of his free time is relatable. If you have kids and are sometimes a tiny bit jealous of the magic claw’s childfree, carefree life, we can’t say we blame you.

#18: Failing Mum School

“Mum School”

Parents can seem perfect from their children’s perspective, but the reality is that everybody makes mistakes, including adults. This idea is explored while Bluey is playing “mum school” under Chilli’s guidance. After one of her balloon children floats away, the young dog is disappointed with herself, thinking she failed as a mother. Chilli assures her that not only will Greenie be alright, but also that messing up occasionally is perfectly normal. This moment serves as a reminder for parents who might be too hard on themselves. Raising children is a high-pressure task, but we aren’t defined by our shortcomings. Making mistakes is okay, even in parenthood.

#17: Generational Differences

“Pass the Parcel”

“Bluey’s” “Pass the Parcel” episode has a straightforward message for kids about learning to be a good loser. However, it proved controversial in adult circles. So which side do you fall on? Is one big present in the center better for character building? Or should you put a treat in each layer so everyone can win a little? Lucky’s dad thinks that the world’s gone soft, while the rest of the parents are more willing to embrace the changing times. The episode itself seems to indicate that kids are tougher than they look and they’ll learn to love “Lucky’s dad’s rules.” But does every party game have to teach a lesson, or is it just supposed to be a bit of fun?

#16: “It Was Yesterday”

“Grandad”

As well as making us laugh, this kids’ show really knows how to tug at the heartstrings. In “Grandad,” Chilli and the girls are visiting grandpa Mort. Chilli worries that her dad doesn’t look after himself properly, but he’s not impressed by her coddling. The episode tackles the relationship between grown-up children and their parents, and definitely feels aimed more at the adult audience than their pre-schoolers. The final scene is absolutely touching, capable of bringing a tear to the eye – especially if it catches you off guard. Sitting with her father and watching the girls swim, Chilli gets nostalgic. Her dad used to bring her to the same place as a child - but it doesn’t seem so long ago to Mort.

#15: “Used to Be Cool”

“Bob Bilby”

Anyone who’s been around for a while will appreciate this hilarious moment, and parents will find it especially relatable. It shows Bandit rustling through a milk crate of his old things and reminiscing on his earlier days. He mentions once being cool, but based on Bluey and Bingo’s reactions, they doubt he ever was. The artifacts of Bandit’s life before kids are a symbol of just how many years have passed. The polaroid camera he whips out was probably purchased new, but would now be considered vintage by many. Bandit might have been young and hip once, but this funny instance reminds us that time changes all. We think he’s still pretty cool, though.

#14: “Stranger Things” Talk

"Seesaw"

The majority of the primary storylines in “Bluey” focus on the children - and most of the adult drama revolves around them too. However, occasionally, you do catch snippets of grown-up conversations that have nothing to do with the little ones. One of our favorite examples of this is in the season 2 episode “Seesaw.” Chilli and Pom-Pom’s mom are talking all things TV. The character and show under discussion both remain unnamed, but we’re pretty certain that this is a “Stranger Things” reference. Guess now we know what the Heelers are watching when the kids are in bed, and we’re not surprised they have great taste!

#13: What’s In the Lemonade?

“Stumpfest”

The grown-ups in “Bluey” are great parents, and they’re also likeably human - if you ignore the fact that they’re cartoon dogs. In “Stumpfest,” Bluey learns that adults like to play too, while we discover that Chilli and Trixie can certainly handle their drinks. The moms watch from upstairs, enjoying some refreshing ‘lemonade,’ while the dads play at ripping up tree stumps. The ladies heckle them from the upstairs balcony, appearing tipsier by the minute while the central saga of stumpfest vs nail salon plays out on the ground. When Bandit and co. break for a well earned drink, they discover that there’s something potent in that lemonade…

#12: Stripe & Trixie's Private Conversation

“Faceytalk”

Ideally, people raising children together would always be on the same page, but that doesn’t happen without proper communication. “Faceytalk” speaks to us viewers who have worked through a disagreement with a significant other. Bluey and Bingo’s uncle and aunt are shown having a tense discussion about using time out. There’s clearly a misunderstanding between the two, and for a while there, it doesn’t sound good. We can’t hear the end of Stripe and Trixie’s conversation, but we do see them make up with a hug. Differences of opinion are normal between partners and co-parents, and provide an opportunity to model good conflict resolution skills.

#11: Indy's Preemie

“Early Baby”

Bluey and her friends are pretending to be medical professionals and patients in labor when Indy, inspired by her sister, feigns having a premature baby. She teaches the others about how to care for her infant, notably instructing them to wash their hands and place her in an incubator. It’s a cute moment for kids, who likely won’t think too much about what they’re seeing. But older viewers understand that the reality of preterm birth can often be stressful and scary. Indy only pretends to be anxious when she’s asked to leave, but many new parents of preemies know that feeling well.

#10: Alone Time for Parents

“Sheep Dog”

Those with children as young as Bluey and Bingo rarely have a minute to themselves. So sometimes, they have to actively carve that time out – that’s what Chilli does in “Sheep Dog.” She asks for twenty minutes where she’s left alone, which her husband does his best to protect. Bluey doesn’t understand why Chilli wants privacy at first, but we do – and so do Bandit and Wendy. Minding kids is a tiring job and carers deserve breaks. After all, balancing childcare with other responsibilities like a career and domestic duties can sometimes be too much. “Bluey” validates the hard work that Chilli and other parents do, while also highlighting their natural need to rest.

#9: “Raiders”

“Yoga Ball”

The Heeler parents know how to have fun with their kids and Bandit, in particular, can often get carried away with a game. In “Yoga Ball” Bingo and Bluey ask for an old favorite. For the girls, it’s just running away from a ball, but to their dad, it’s “Raiders.” As an eighties kid, “Indiana Jones” is firmly within Bandit’s frame of reference. The adult audience will recognize the nod to “Raiders of the Lost Ark” even if it goes over the kids’ heads. It’s a throwaway reference, but a perfect fit for Bandit’s ‘fun dad’ persona.

#8: Getting Out the Door

“Sticky Gecko”

This hilarious episode spotlighting Chilli feels straight out of real life. Anyone who’s tried to wrangle children out the door before understands just how difficult a task it is, made increasingly challenging the more kids there are. Bluey and Bingo’s mom does her best to get the girls ready to go to the park, but they have a hard time following directions and keep getting distracted. They notably decide it’s the perfect moment to play sticky gecko, much to Chilli’s dismay. She does her best to keep her cool amid the chaos, but eventually loses her patience – before ultimately mastering the situation. Watching this as adults, we feel bad for putting our own parents through this sort of thing in the past!

#7: Chilli’s Implied Miscarriage

“The Show”

The writing in “Bluey” can be very subtle for a show aimed mostly at preschoolers. It often drops hints about family life that are picked up on in later episodes, or that help round out the world with a bit of extra information. For example, some viewers think that Grandad Bob may be suffering from dementia. Another blink-and-you’ll-miss it moment implies that Chilli may have lost a baby before Bluey. The girls are putting on a show of their parents’ life together and Bingo wears a balloon under her shirt to indicate pregnancy. When the balloon pops, there’s a tense moment and Bandit grabs Chilli’s hand. It’s brief, but the inclusion of this unexpected reaction seems to suggest a possible miscarriage.

#6: The Eighties References in the Flashback Episode

“Fairytale”

A lot of younger parents will have missed the eighties altogether, but that doesn’t mean they didn’t grow up in a different climate than their kids. There are definitely moments in the flashback episode “Fairytale” that will still strike a chord. If you remember cassette tapes, or know exactly what happens when you break a jinx, this one’s bound to stir up some nostalgia. You might even recognize the “She-Ra” costume worn by young Chilli (if it is young Chilli - there’s some dispute.) Placing Bandit and Chilli’s childhoods specifically in the eighties is a treat for parents of the era, giving them a chance to relive some memorable experiences.

#5: The Vasectomy Conversation

“Perfect”

In another one of those background conversations between the grown-ups, we catch an interesting tidbit of information from Bandit. In a chat with Fido at a Father’s Day barbecue, the two dads appear to be discussing the pros and cons of getting the snip. Since they’re dogs, presumably the official term is ‘neutered.’ Chilli may be unsure about such a big decision, but by the next episode it seems she’s made her mind up. In “Bedroom,” the family are clearing out the old nursery. In the US broadcast however, the conversation between the dads was subtly altered so that they’re discussing having teeth removed instead.

#4: New Year’s Hangover

“Whale Watching”

It’s been a big New Year for the Heeler parents. After a party at Uncle Stripe’s place, they’re feeling a bit fragile – if you know what we mean. But parenthood never stops, and the girls still want to play. ‘Rough seas’ are not what you want when you’re already feeling, well, rough, and seeing the typically energetic mom and dad longing for calm is pretty amusing. It’s also likely to be relatable for many adults! At least the whale game involves lying down and - on Chilli’s part - wolfing down some hangover treats. Still, we all need a break sometimes, and a bit of screen time proves the perfect temporary distraction for Bluey and Bingo. Plus, it gives Chilli the exact boost she needs!

#3: Evolution, Religious Undertones, & IKEA Furniture

“Flat Pack”

“Flat Pack” contains several layers of deep meaning that the show’s youngest viewers wouldn’t yet be able to grasp. Indeed, Bluey and Bingo’s game replicates evolution and the development of human society, concepts that can be found in high school curriculums. The sisters play as mother and child, progressively getting older until Bingo’s character is ready to go off alone. Bluey’s ascent up the stairs is thought to signify death, and her afterlife has religious undertones. It’s not uncommon for kids to learn simplified versions of these complex topics. But those of us with more years under our belts tend to have a better understanding of them. On a lighter note, Bandit and Chilli’s project throughout the episode speaks to anyone who’s assembled IKEA furniture!

#2: Brandy’s Implied Infertility

“Onesies”

We wouldn’t typically expect a children’s show to tackle the complicated topic of infertility, but “Bluey” does so beautifully in “Onesies.” Things are kept vague and probably go over the heads of younger audiences. But for those of us old enough to guess at what’s going on, it hits hard. A long overdue visit from her sister Brandy prompts Chilli to try to explain her difficult situation to Bluey. The mom relates Brandy’s struggle to Bluey’s desire for a onesie she can’t have. It’s implied that Brandy is unable to get pregnant, despite the fact that she wants to. Bingo running away from her aunt in the yard is widely believed to symbolize the situation, and breaks our hearts. Luckily, we know that she gets pregnant later, and we couldn’t be happier.

#1: Parental Guilt

“Baby Race”

“Bluey” is great at tackling serious topics in a gentle but informative way that kids will be able to understand. However, on occasion, it speaks directly to the adults. In “Baby Race” Chilli looks back to her early days as a mother. When Bluey doesn’t progress as quickly as the other babies, a touch of parental guilt sets in. Just when Chilli’s feeling at her lowest, someone more experienced is right there, ready to give her some encouragement. When Coco’s mom looks right at the camera, it feels like she’s speaking to all the parents at home who might be struggling or doubting themselves. Her kind words might be simple, but they could be exactly what someone needs to hear.

What scenes made you feel validated? Let us know in the comments.