Celebrating Communities in PBS KIDS Programs
In today's rapidly changing world, fostering a sense of community and teaching children the importance of contributing to their neighborhoods is more crucial than ever. PBS KIDS programs aim to nurture these values through engaging and educational content. From exploring local environments to lending a helping hand, these shows offer a vibrant tapestry of activities encouraging children to connect with and care for their communities.
Check out five PBS KIDS shows that entertain and inspire young viewers to actively participate in making a positive impact within their communities.
Arthur
This long-running animated series embodies the essence of the community by portraying the interactions and relationships within Elwood City, following Arthur Read and his diverse group of friends' day-to-day lives. Each episode dives into the characters' various experiences and challenges, from school adventures to family gatherings, highlighting the importance of friendship, empathy, and mutual support within a community. This series also aims to cultivate a love for reading and writing, promote positive social skills, and demonstrate age-appropriate problem-solving skills. Through its engaging narratives and relatable themes, Arthur fosters an understanding of community values and the impact of positive social interactions on individual growth and collective well-being.
Alma’s Way
Alma’s Way beautifully represents the vibrant life of a young child living in the Bronx, New York City, and how her community has positively impacted her life. Alma, the main character, is Puerto Rican, and her community includes friends and neighbors from different ethnicities and walks of life. This diversity reflects the real-world communities in urban settings, emphasizing inclusivity and representation. The program also addresses the importance of interconnectedness and how relationships with friends, family and neighbors contribute to a supportive and nurturing environment. Alma aims to model self-awareness, responsible decision-making and empathy, encouraging kids to generate ideas and questions.
Wild Kratts
Wild Kratts is a hit PBS KIDS show that follows the adventures of Chris and Martin Kratt as they travel to different areas of the world, meet new and unique animals and learn about their habitats. Whether in the rainforests of South America, the savannas of Africa, or the Arctic tundra, the Kratt brothers demonstrate respect for local traditions and knowledge, often interacting with indigenous peoples and experts. By showcasing these interactions, the show promotes cultural diversity and appreciation for different ways of life, fostering a sense of global unity among young viewers. Through its thoughtful representation of communities, Wild Kratts encourages curiosity about the world and instills values of conservation and respect for both nature and humanity.
Molly of Denali
This PBS KIDS series features Molly, a young Alaskan Native girl living in Alaska. The show celebrates Molly’s cultural heritage and portrays the rich diversity of Alaska Native peoples, their languages, traditions, and ways of life. Molly’s adventures teach us about tight-knit communities and the importance of traditional knowledge. By showcasing Molly’s everyday life and interactions with family, friends, and elders, Molly of Denali promotes understanding, empathy, and appreciation for Indigenous cultures among its young audience while also emphasizing themes of resilience, problem-solving and environmental stewardship.
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood
Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood tells engaging stories about the life of a preschooler by using musical strategies. Daniel and his friends learn the essential social skills necessary for school and life through imagination. All characters come from diverse backgrounds, reflecting a real-world community where people of various identities live together. The show also features many community activities, such as festivals, school events, and neighborhood gatherings. The series also makes a point to emphasize the importance of positive role models where parents, teachers and neighbors foster a strong community environment. Overall, Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood effectively represents community by emphasizing the importance of relationships, diversity, cooperation and shared values, providing young viewers with a positive and inclusive model of community life.