VISUAL SYNTAX IN ANIMATED CARTOONS FOR CHILDREN AGED THREE TO FOUR YEARS

Abstract

This study analyzes the visual syntax of cartoons produced using different animation techniques for children aged three to four. Drawing on Donis A. Dondis’s visual literacy framework, 115 second excerpts of Paw Patrol (3D) and Peppa Pig (2D) were examined. Paw Patrol showed greater visual complexity: a more intense pacing, a more saturated palette, and heavier use of light/shadow, blur and perspective. Peppa Pig exhibited more centered, simpler compositions, less saturated colors, “faked” perspective, and character emphasis by contrast against soft backgrounds. The study suggests that, because they present large differences and are widely consumed by the same age group, children appear to be able to process different levels of visual complexity.