PBS Kids today announced Alma’s Way, a new animated series from Fred Rogers Productions. The series is created by actor and writer, Sonia Manzano, who positively impacted the lives of generations as “Maria” on Sesame Street, breaking new ground as one of the first Latino characters on national television, for which she received an Emmy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016. Alma’s Way gives children ages four to six 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. It is slated to debut nationwide on PBS stations, the PBS KIDS 24/7 channel, and PBS KIDS digital platforms in fall 2021.
“I am thrilled to return to public television and to work with PBS KIDS and Fred Rogers Productions on this project inspired by my own childhood,” said Manzano. “Alma’s way is to think things through, and I hope by animating the thought process, kids will be inspired and excited about what goes on in their own minds. I want them to know 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 PBS KIDS content head Linda Simensky.
“Sonia is naturally funny and perceptive, and she has created in Alma a heroine who is similarly able to confront challenges with humor and thoughtful intention. As kids join Alma, her family, and friends on their adventures, we hope they’ll also see themselves reflected in these characters and learn new things about one of the many beautifully diverse communities that exists across the country.”
The engaging modern-day series stars six-year-old Alma Rivera, a proud, confident Puerto Rican girl, who lives in the Bronx with her parents and younger brother, Junior, as well as a diverse group of close-knit and loving friends, family, and community members. In each 11-minute story, Alma speaks directly to young viewers, sharing her observations and feelings, working through challenges, and offering them a window into her everyday life.
“We can’t wait for kids to meet Alma. She’s an optimistic and confident Puerto Rican girl who models for viewers how to think their way through any dilemma,” said Fred Rogers Productions chief creative officer Ellen Doherty. “The show is funny, warm, and relatable. We love how it showcases the diversity of New York City, too, and authentically reflects the cultures of all the characters.”
In every episode, Alma’s Way aims to model self-awareness, responsible decision making, and empathy, encouraging kids to generate and value their own ideas and questions. As she uses “Think-Through” moments to stop, listen, and process in the face of a tough decision, Alma reflects and takes action while demonstrating social awareness.
Currently in production for 40 half-hour episodes, the series will also showcase different aspects of Latino culture through music, food, language, and more. For example, viewers will see Alma help make mofongo, take part in a bomba show, and celebrate Noche Buena.
Alma’s Way is created by Manzano and produced by Fred Rogers Productions. Doherty and Manzano are executive producers. Jorge Aguirre (Goldie & Bear) is head writer. The series is animated by Pipeline Studios (Elinor Wonders Why).
Digital content for kids, parents and teachers, launching in tandem with the television show, will further the messages and goals of Alma’s Way. Series-inspired games will be available in English and Spanish on PBS kids official website and on the free PBS KIDS Games App, along with clips and full episodes streaming across PBS KIDS’ video platforms, including the free PBS KIDS Video App. Parent resources, including tips and hands-on activities to extend the learning at home, will be available on the PBS KIDS for Parents site, and PBS LearningMedia will offer tools for teachers, including video excerpts, games, teaching tips and printable activities.
