"Alma's Way" - the animated series by Sonia Manzano on PBS KIDS by Fred Rogers Prod.

PBS KIDS announced Alma's Way, a new animated series from Fred Rogers Productions. The series was created by the actress and writer Sonia Manzano, who had a positive impact on the lives of generations as "Maria" of Sesame Street, opening new horizons as one of the first Latin characters on national television and receiving a Lifetime Achievement Emmy in 2016.

Alma's Way is a preschool animated series aimed at 4-6 year olds that invites them to have the power to find their own answers to their problems, express what they think and feel, and recognize and respect the unique perspective of others. The series will debut in Fall 2021 on the PBS KIDS 24/7 channel and on the PBS KIDS digital platforms.

“I am thrilled to return to public television and to work with PBS KIDS and Fred Rogers Productions on this project inspired by my childhood,” said Manzano. "Alma's Way is thinking about things and I hope that by animating the thinking process, children will be inspired and excited about what goes on in their minds. I want them to know that we all have the power to think regardless of who we are ”.

“Sonia has been an important part of the PBS KIDS family for decades and we are so excited to be working with her on Alma's Way“Said Linda Simensky, Head of PBS KIDS Content. “Sonia is naturally funny and insightful, and she has created a heroine in Alma who is equally capable of taking on challenges with humor and caring intention. As children join Alma, his family and friends on their adventures, we hope they too see themselves reflected in these characters and learn new things about one of the many wonderfully diverse communities that exist across the country. "

The engaging modern series stars six-year-old Alma Rivera: a proud and confident Puerto Rican girl who lives in the Bronx with her parents and younger brother, Junior, as well as a diverse group of close and loving friends, family and members of the family. community. In each 11-minute story, Alma speaks directly to young viewers, sharing his observations and feelings, facing challenges and offering them a window into his daily life.

“We can't wait for the children to meet Alma. She is an upbeat and confident Puerto Rican girl who models viewers on how to think their way through any dilemma, ”said Ellen Doherty, Chief Creative Officer, Fred Rogers Productions. “The show is fun, warm and recognizable. We also love the way it showcases the diversity of New York City and authentically reflects the cultures of all the characters. ”

In each episode, Alma's Way aims to shape self-awareness, responsible decision making and empathy, by encouraging children to generate and evaluate their own ideas and questions. While using the moments of reflection to stop, listen and elaborate when faced with a difficult decision, Alma reflects and intervenes by demonstrating social awareness.

Currently in production for 40 half-hour episodes, the series will also showcase different aspects of Latin culture through music, food, language and more. For example, viewers will see Alma help mofongo, take part in a bombshell show, and celebrate Noche Buena.

Alma's Way was conceived by Sonia Manzano and produced by Fred Rogers Productions. Ellen Doherty and Manzano are executive producers. Jorge Aguirre (Goldie & Bear) is the lead writer. The series is animated by Pipeline Studios (Elinor wonders why).

Digital content for children, parents and teachers, launched in conjunction with the television program, will promote the messages and goals of Alma's Way. Games inspired by the series will be available in English and Spanish on pbskids.org and on the free PBS KIDS Games app, along with clips and full episodes streamed on PBS KIDS video platforms, including the free PBS KIDS Video app. Resources for parents, including tips and hands-on activities for extending learning at home, will be available on the PBS KIDS for Parents website, and PBS LearningMedia will offer tools for teachers, including video excerpts, games, teaching tips and printable activities .