Type: Press Releases

Posted on by Brooke Wehrle

Fred Rogers Productions has extended its partnership with the PNC Foundation. Through PNC Grow Up Great®, the PNC Foundation has awarded a $1.4 million grant to support Alma’s Way, the hit series on PBS KIDS. The grant will also support community events inspired by the series and ongoing Fred Rogers Productions initiatives such as Be My Neighbor Day. PNC Grow Up Great® is a multi-year, bilingual early childhood education initiative that helps children from birth through age 5 develop a love of learning that lasts a lifetime, which aligns with the Fred Rogers Productions mission and its series’ learning goals. PNC’s support of Fred Rogers Productions’ award-winning programming and events are aimed at helping to meet the needs of children and families where they are, a mission shared by both companies.

“We are so pleased to continue our partnership with the PNC Foundation, a valued supporter of educational and arts programs,” said Paul Siefken, president and CEO, Fred Rogers Productions. “Their sponsorship of our programming and outreach initiatives enables us to continue providing valuable content and hands-on experiences for children and families in their neighborhoods nationwide.”

The grant supports a range of onscreen content and outreach programs with educational and pro-social themes, including 49 Be My Neighbor Day events, the successful, longstanding community-based initiative inspired by Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, plus four Alma’s Way community events, and more.

“Fred Rogers Productions has been a terrific collaborator from the earliest days of PNC Grow Up Great, creating quality programming that encourages young children to discover, learn and grow,” said Sally McCrady, chair and president of the PNC Foundation. “Be My Neighbor Days is one of my favorite initiatives across PNC’s markets, helping families think about how they can be great neighbors and the importance of keeping kindness in mind. We’re excited to see the Alma’s Way Explore Your City events take shape.”

The PNC Foundation will be recognized on broadcast and across digital for its generous contribution to make new Alma’s Way episodes possible.
Alma’s Way focuses on core messages and learning goals to encourage children as they develop problem-solving, resilience, empathy, and other life skills. The series follows 6-year-old Alma Rivera, a proud, confident Puerto Rican girl who lives in the Bronx with her family among a diverse group of close-knit friends and community members. In every episode, Alma models self-awareness, responsible decision-making and empathy, while encouraging kids to develop critical thinking skills and value their own ideas and questions. The series, which premiered in 2021, is created by Sonia Manzano (“Maria” on Sesame Street) and produced by Fred Rogers Productions in association with Pipeline Studios (Elinor Wonders Why). Ellen Doherty and Manzano are executive producers. Jorge Aguirre (Goldie & Bear) is head writer and co-executive producer. Additional co-executive producers are Luis Lopez and Juan Lopez. Supervising Producer for Fred Rogers Productions is Olubunmi Mia Olufemi.

Be My Neighbor Day, the signature community outreach initiative for Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood spinoff Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, has attracted several hundred thousand in-person attendees nationwide since the program started in 2014. There have been more than 126,000 resources shared with participants, and attendees have helped create and assemble over 90,000 “giveback” items, such as health and first aid kits and thank you cards, for their communities. More than 30,000 items, such as sweaters and
mittens, have also been collected for donation to the participating locales.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on by Brooke Wehrle

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, the beloved animated PBS KIDS series from Fred Rogers Productions, will return for an eighth season. Set to premiere in 2026, Season 8 of the well-loved series that models practical life skills for young children will feature ten new episodes. The order will include two half-hour specials, one introducing Daniel’s cousin, who is adopted, and another showcasing New Year’s Eve traditions in the Neighborhood of Make-Believe. In keeping with the thoughtfulness for which the series has become known, the upcoming season will address relatable themes for preschoolers and their parents, including adoption, managing morning and nighttime routines, cleaning up, patience, and more. It will also revisit its classic “grown-ups come back” parenting strategy with new stories and present a new strategy based on the classic Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood song, “Let’s Think of Something to Do While We’re Waiting.”

“Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood and its helpful, singable strategies have resonated with families since the series first launched in 2012, and it continues to be a favorite today,” said Ellen Doherty, chief creative officer, Fred Rogers Productions. “We’re excited to provide a new season of quality content that includes valuable life lessons while furthering the legacy of Fred Rogers with fresh stories, characters, and adventures.”

“Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood is a shining example of the core mission of public media—to help preschoolers and their families navigate everyday situations and tackle challenges together in positive ways,” said Sara DeWitt, Senior Vice President and General Manager, PBS KIDS. “We are proud to bring Season 8 to PBS KIDS, sharing meaningful and fun stories from the Neighborhood of Make-Believe to uplift, inspire, and enrich the lives of our viewers.”

Fred Rogers Productions will produce new Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood games for the free PBS KIDS Games app and pbskids.org in tandem with Season 8. The company will also work to enhance the accessibility of its popular existing games so that even more children can play and benefit from them. Additionally, Fred Rogers Productions will host several webinars to provide a behind-the-scenes look at the game development for the series in an effort to continue to grow and serve the community of developers who are new to creating educational games for children.

Each episode of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood showcases two distinct stories starring Daniel Tiger and his friends, who invite viewers to join them on their adventures as they explore the colorful Neighborhood of Make-Believe. Each half-hour includes one story from Daniel’s perspective and another from the point of view of other characters including Katerina Kittycat, Miss Elaina, O the Owl, Prince Wednesday, Jodi Platypus, Max, and Chrissie. Irresistible musical strategies reinforce the unique theme of every show so preschoolers, parents, and caregivers can sing along and incorporate them into their daily lives. Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood is produced by Fred Rogers Productions and 9 Story Media Group and animated by award-winning animation studio, Brown Bag Films. Executive producers are Angela C. Santomero, creator of the series; Ellen Doherty, chief creative officer at Fred Rogers Productions; and Vince Commisso, president & CEO, 9 Story Media Group. Supervising Producers are Chris Loggins (Fred Rogers Productions) and Coral Schoug (Brown Bag Films). 9 Story Brands holds worldwide licensing and distribution rights for the series.

Fans can watch Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood on their local PBS station and stream it for free on the PBS KIDS Video app, pbskids.org, and more (no subscription required). Games, activities, and more can be found on pbskids.org/daniel.

 

 

 

Posted on by Brooke Wehrle

Fred Rogers Productions has partnered with Milton Hershey School (MHS), a premiere Hershey, PA-based private school, on a six-month digital sponsorship for Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. The collaboration is a natural fit for the school, where students in pre-K through 12th grade live and learn on campus, and the children’s media organization, which strives to foster an enthusiasm for learning. This marks the first digital sponsorship for the iconic series on MisterRogers.org, where fans can easily access their favorite episodes online. The partnership of the mission-focused organizations was born out of Milton Hershey School’s focus on social and emotional learning and developing critical thinking skills for children’s lifelong success, which are features of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. The sponsorship began in February and runs through July of this year.

“We’re very excited to join forces with a mission-aligned organization like Milton Hershey School,” said Paul Siefken, President & CEO of Fred Rogers Productions. “With the shared goal to provide children with opportunities to learn, follow their curiosity, and develop important lifelong skills, it is a natural fit for collaboration.”

“As Milton Hershey School grows to support even more students, we’re eager to share our life-changing mission with families everywhere through the wonderful programming of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood,” said Shaun Turner, Senior Director of Enrollment Management and Family Relations at MHS. “This great partnership is not just about raising awareness, though—it’s an extension of our founders’ commitment to educate and empower children.”

The new digital sponsorship features banners and 15-second, pre-roll video on all Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood episodes on the brand’s official website plus social media engagement on Fred Rogers Productions’ owned channels. The campaign highlights the positive impact Milton Hershey School has on students by covering all costs for all who attend, and its long history of educating children in social and financial need to lead fulfilling and productive lives.

About Milton Hershey School

Milton Hershey School is one of the world's best private schools, where qualifying students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade live on campus and receive an exceptional educational experience—with all costs covered. For more information, visit mhskids.org.

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on by Brooke Wehrle

Alma’s Way has been greenlit for a third season. The new season of the hit critical thinking-focused show will feature 15 half-hour episodes, including a 22-minute musical special. Alma’s Way is created by Sonia Manzano (“Maria” on Sesame Street) and is produced in association with Pipeline Studios (Work It Out Wombats!, DORA).

Season 3 of Alma’s Way will continue to capture the quintessential sights and sounds of New York City with episodes that include the New York Public Library, the 6 train, and a return visit to the iconic American Museum of Natural History. In addition, the new season will feature more music with “Alma in Oz,” a 22-minute special musical episode inspired by L. Frank Baum's The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Season 3 will include a wide range of stories that cover relatable experiences like navigating the loss of a beloved neighbor, learning self-regulation techniques for when things don't go as planned, and supporting a friend through a difficult situation. The episodes will include learning goals like problem-solving, self-advocacy, responsible decision-making, and others for which the series is known.

“We are thrilled that viewers will continue to learn alongside Alma and her friends in Season 3,” said Ellen Doherty, chief creative officer for Fred Rogers Productions and executive producer of the show. “Whatever the dilemma may be, Alma models how to think things through with kindness, optimism, and self-confidence."

“It’s so important that kids know they matter and for them to see themselves reflected in the characters on screen,” said Sonia Manzano, series creator and executive producer. “I’m honored to work with Fred Rogers Productions, PBS KIDS, and Pipeline Studios to help achieve this goal the ‘Alma way!’”

“We’re excited to bring more Alma’s Way to families across the country, highlighting community and all the fun learning moments that the series brings to life in every episode,” said Sara DeWitt, Senior Vice President and General Manager, PBS KIDS.

Fred Rogers Productions will produce two new Alma's Way games for the free PBS KIDS Games app and pbskids.org, including one designed for accessible play for children whose motor abilities may affect how they play desktop and mobile games. The hugely popular Alma’s Way games that are now available, including “Alma on the Case” and “Dominoes,” have been played more than 30 million times to date.*

Alma’s Way is aimed at kids 4-6 and focuses on critical thinking, responsible decision-making, and empathy, while showcasing Latino cultures through music, food, language, and more. All episodes are available in both English and Spanish. The series is created by Sonia Manzano and produced by Fred Rogers Productions in association with Pipeline Studios. Ellen Doherty and Manzano are executive producers. Jorge Aguirre (Goldie & Bear) is head writer and co-executive producer. Additional co-executive producers are Luis Lopez and Juan Lopez. Supervising producer for Fred Rogers Productions is Olubunmi Mia Olufemi. *Digital Sources: Google Analytics, September 2023 to December 2024.

Season 3 of Alma’s Way also features episodes written by fellows of Fred Rogers Productions’ Writers’ Neighborhood, a mentoring program that provides training and support for new and emerging writers as they build and sustain freelance careers in children’s media.

 

 

 

 

Posted on by Brooke Wehrle

Fred Rogers Productions (FRP) has received funding to advance its workforce development and community engagement programs from Citizens. The $100,000 grant will support the Fred Rogers Productions Writers’ Neighborhood, the children’s media organization’s fellowship program for emerging writers as well as its community engagement events inspired by Alma’s Way, the Emmy®- nominated animated series created by Sonia Manzano and produced by FRP for PBS KIDS.

The Fred Rogers Productions Writers’ Neighborhood is a fellowship program that aims to help emerging writers build and sustain careers in children’s media. Now in its third year, the mentorship program helps build the pipeline of creatives in children’s programming by connecting fellows with industry professionals and enabling them to learn and network with experienced writers, story editors, head writers, and producers.

Alma’s Way is an engaging, animated PBS KIDS series for children ages 4 to 6 that stars 6- year-old Alma Rivera, a proud and confident Puerto Rican girl, who lives in the Bronx with her family and a diverse group of friends and neighbors. Citizens’ funding will support Fred Rogers Productions’ community engagement initiatives to amplify Alma’s Way’s positive message to young audiences. Last fall, Citizens helped fund an interactive, accessible screening event for children and families at the American Museum of Natural History in New York that was inspired by Alma’s on-screen visit to the museum. Citizens will support a similar event in Pittsburgh later this year.

“We are so thrilled to extend our collaboration with Citizens to help further our initiatives for Alma’s Way events and our Writers’ Neighborhood program,” said Paul Siefken, president & CEO of Fred Rogers Productions. “Both Fred Rogers Productions and Citizens are dedicated to supporting the arts and media here in Pittsburgh, and their support will make it possible for us to serve many more children, families, and talented professionals.”

"At Citizens, we understand the importance of supporting educational and cultural initiatives that enrich our communities," said Mark Rendulic, Citizens Pittsburgh Market President. "Fred Rogers Productions is a source of pride for Pittsburgh and has been a cornerstone in fostering creativity and learning for generations. We’re thrilled to support their efforts to build the pipeline of skilled talent that fuels our creative economy and help ensure that their children’s stories continue to inspire and educate.”

 

 

 

 

Posted on by Brooke Wehrle

The Renewal of the Fred Rogers Productions Series Will Feature an All-New Format

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood kicks off its seventh season on August 12, 2024 on PBS KIDS. Season 7 of the animated series from Fred Rogers Productions will feature 14 episodes with exciting new interstitials plus one half-hour special. Since its launch in 2012, the relatable Daniel Tiger has become beloved by children and parents alike as he takes viewers along on his everyday adventures in the Neighborhood of Make-Believe. Now, viewers will experience the perspective of other fan-favorite characters in an exciting new format change for the series.

For the first time, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood will feature stories from the points-of-view of familiar friends. Each half-hour will include one story from Daniel’s perspective and another from the perspective of characters including Katerina Kittycat, Miss Elaina, O the Owl, Prince Wednesday, Jodi Platypus, Max, and Chrissie. The show’s iconic “Imagination Moments" will also be presented from the unique perspectives of other characters to illustrate each friend’s own imaginative style.

“We’re excited that the new format will give children more opportunities to see themselves and their experiences represented as they get to know Daniel’s friends in a different way,” said Ellen Doherty, chief creative officer, Fred Rogers Productions. “Celebrating friends and neighbors is one of many ways that Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood continues the legacy of Fred Rogers.”

“We’re thrilled to continue bringing stories from Daniel and all his friends to kids across the country on PBS KIDS,” said Sara DeWitt, senior vice president and general manager, PBS KIDS. “Families love to share with us how much these characters and lessons resonate, and we can’t wait for everyone to see more.”

In addition to new songs and stories—including a helpful potty strategy tune—the seventh season will feature an episode where Daniel and friends wonder what's new about Trolley. Young viewers and their families will also get to visit a new location and meet Jodi’s dad, Mr. Plat, who lives outside the Neighborhood of Make-Believe.

 

 

 

Posted on by Brooke Wehrle

Starting June 22, families can visit The Magic House to experience a new nationally traveling exhibit, Alma's Way: Welcome to My Neighborhood!, an immersive exhibit developed and fabricated by The Magic House in collaboration with  Fred Rogers Productions. The exhibit is based on Alma’s Way, the hit animated series on PBS KIDS®. The series follows the neighborhood adventures of 6-year-old Alma Rivera, a proud, confident Puerto Rican girl who lives in the Bronx with her family and a diverse group of friends and neighbors.

The familiar environments from the show come to life as visitors are transported to Alma’s vibrant neighborhood in the Bronx to explore:

Alma’s Family Duplex: Step inside Alma's welcoming Family Duplex, where generations come together to share traditions. Learn to make mofongo, a Puerto Rican dish, or immerse yourself in the sounds of Puerto Rican music by playing instruments like maracas and hand drums. Outside, play hopscotch on the sidewalk or have a barbecue in the backyard.

Bodega: Explore a Bangladeshi Bronx Bodega, a small neighborhood store that is full of a variety of items like food, drinks, snacks, school supplies, household items, and souvenirs. Contribute to a collaborative community mural, adding a creative touch to the vibrant streetscape.

Community Center: Discover the rich heritage of Puerto Rican culture at the Community Center, where you can participate in Bomba dance lessons and learn to play the Bomba drums.

Pet Clinic: Become a veterinarian like Alma’s papi, Dr. Rivera, and perform check-ups while learning about fascinating creatures like parrots, lizards, and red-eyed tree frogs, then create your own video inspired by Dr. Rivera’s internet animal show.

6 Train: Take a subway ride aboard the 6 train, play The Alma Train game, and be a conductor like Alma’s Tía Gloria.

Park: Go on a quest to find coquÍs, tiny frogs native to Puerto Rico. Enjoy a game of checkers, climb on rock formations, or decorate a cardboard clubhouse.

Alma's Way: Welcome to My Neighborhood! is free with Museum admission and will be at The Magic House from June 22 through January 5, when it will begin traveling to other children’s museums around the country.

 

 

Posted on by Brooke Wehrle

It’s Alma’s Way!, the first album from the hit animated PBS KIDS series, Alma’s Way, is now available on all digital music platforms. The release of the soundtrack comes from the collaboration between Fred Rogers Productions, the esteemed children’s media organization and producer behind Alma’s Way, and Warner Music Group’s Arts Music division. Fans of the acclaimed series, which helps children ages 4-6 develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, will recognize the music celebrating Alma’s Puerto Rican heritage, her adventures in her hometown of The Bronx, and more.

The new album features original music from award-winning composers and lyricists, including Asher Lenz, Stephen Skratt, and Fabiola Méndez, along with fan-favorite songs like the series title track, “Alma’s Way! (Theme Song)” written and produced by Lin-Manuel Miranda and Bill Sherman. Other notable songs include “Alma's Nochebuena Aguinaldo,” “The Bronx Squirrel Stomp," and “Mofongo on the Go Go.”

 

 

 

Posted on by Brooke Wehrle

Fred Rogers Productions, the children’s educational media organization behind the hit series Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, and 9 Story Brands, its worldwide licensing agent for the popular brand, together with toy partner JAKKS Pacific and retail marketing agency Licensing Street, have secured a new retail program for the much-loved preschool property in Macy’s Toys ‘R’ Us shops.

The assortment includes eight Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood toy skus rolling out to 200+ Macy’s Toys ‘R’ Us shops across the U.S. this month.

Among the toys headed to store shelves are Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Deluxe Trolley, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Family and Friends Figures, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Goodnight Daniel Tiger, and an assortment of mini figures, feature and jumbo plush. One of the new items, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Ultra Jumbo Daniel Tiger plush, is a Macy’s Toys ‘R’ Us exclusive for fall 2023 and will be featured in the retailer’s holiday toy catalog.

The special toy collection will join an assortment of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood-brand products currently available online at Macy’s Toys ‘R’ Us, including books and games.

“We’re delighted to work with 9 Story Brands and JAKKS Pacific to bring the imaginative world of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood to Macy’s Toys ’R’ Us shoppers,” said Matt Shiels, Vice President of Business and Legal Affairs, Fred Rogers Productions. “Children and families now will be able to experience the product range in a fun and exciting, play-focused environment that lets them immerse themselves in the wonder of these new toys.”

“We are excited to see Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood toys return to Toys ‘R’ Us, where the brand originally launched,” said Kyra Halperin, VP, Consumer Products for 9 Story. “With over 10 years on air, the demand for Daniel Tiger products continues to grow. We look forward to continued collaboration with our valued partners to enhance fans' connections to the brand.”

“We are excited to launch this partnership with Macy’s Toys ‘R’ Us as a perfect destination for Daniel Tiger, creating a storytelling experience where kids, parents, and grandparents can bring these beloved characters home,” said Tracy Warshauer, SVP of Marketing at JAKKS Pacific.

Premiering in 2012, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood is now in its sixth season on PBS KIDS. The series is co-produced by Fred Rogers Productions and 9 Story Media Group and animated by 9 Story’s award-winning animation studio, Brown Bag Films. 9 Story Brands holds worldwide licensing rights. The property has 50 licensees on board, including JAKKS Pacific (toys), Simon & Schuster (publishing), Crayola (coloring), Isaac Morris (apparel), Tonies (audio toy), Waloo Products (sporting goods), and more.

 

 

 

Posted on by Brooke Wehrle

9 Story Brands and Fred Rogers Productions are pleased to announce a licensing partnership with new children’s outdoor company carter joey™ for the beloved children’s series, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood. Rights granted include children’s outdoor backpacks, patch packs, and adventure blankets within the U.S. and Canada. The first carter joey™ x Daniel Tiger products will launch later this year and will include a Sling Pack backpack and a patch pack that correlates with episodes of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood.

“We are thrilled to partner with carter joey™, an exciting new startup on a mission to inspire families to be intentional with their time and be active, not busy.” said Kyra Halperin, Co-VP of Consumer Products for 9 Story. “carter joey™ will help families play-out the learning themes of the series in their own backyards and bring the important themes to life off-screen.”

"We are delighted to have the honor of partnering with such a well-established and wholesome brand like Daniel Tiger," said carter joey™ Co-Founder, Damon Claus. "There is great synergy between how Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood teaches children valuable life lessons and how carter joey™ encourages the same audience to be adventurous in their approach to learning."

"We are excited to work with a fellow like-minded, Pittsburgh-based brand to bring Daniel Tiger to children and families in a new way," said Matt Shiels, vice president of Business and Legal Affairs at Fred Rogers Productions. "Daniel and his friends model fun and adventure outdoors, and carter joey™ is a natural partner to bring that element to life."

After premiering in 2012, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood is now in its sixth season on PBS KIDS. The series is co-produced by Fred Rogers Productions and 9 Story Media Group and animated by 9 Story’s award-winning animation studio, Brown Bag Films. 9 Story Brands holds worldwide licensing rights. The property has 50 licensees on board including Jakks Pacific (toys), Simon & Schuster (publishing), Crayola (coloring), Isaac Morris (apparel), Tonies (audio toy), Waloo Products (sporting goods), and more.