To celebrate the country's 250th, PBS Kids is taking young viewers across America
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PBS Kids thinks of its programming in terms of windows and mirrors.When young viewers watch one of its shows, the hope is they see some aspect of their own life on the screen.Or, alternatively, that they get a peek into a whole new world and learn about kids from different communities and backgrounds.
That goal is the throughline for “PBS Kids Across America,” a block of programming tied to the 250th anniversary of the United States.It celebrates the diversity of our country and the children who live here while dropping some history lessons and civics knowledge along the way.The hope is that after watching the “PBS Kids Across America” programming, children not only come to appreciate differences but also start to understand the commonalities that unite everybody, says Dorothea Gillim, executive producer and creative director of GBH Kids.
“I also hope that kids come away with pride in their own communities and pride in this country,” she adds.“PBS Kids Across America” kicked off May 1 with “Wowsabout,” a new Jim Henson Co.special.
Filmed on location in Sequoia National Park, “Wowsabout” follows live-action puppets Roxy, a hedgehog, and Ronald, a pig, as they go on a camping trip and learn about the marvels of nature.“America’s Awesome Kids” premieres Friday.The series of 25 shorts, done in collaboration with PBS member stations, features children from around the United States celebrating their families, their community and all the activities they do that make their lives so special.
Among the children featured is 11-year-old Luke from Los Banos (his last name was not provided).Injured in a playground accident in 2023, Luke now uses a wheelchair, but that hasn’t stopped him from pursuing all the things that he loves, including adaptive basketball.
(You can watch the exclusive premiere of Luke’s segment here.)“He’s just another kid,” Gill...