Linda Kahn

TV Kids Weekly, October 7, 2008

Senior VP of International TV Sales and Merchandising

Scholastic Media

Scholastic Media is connected to a publishing powerhouse for children, and its name has very definite significance for international buyers. “It’s a trusted brand around the world,” says Linda Kahn. “Buyers see our programming as a high-quality mix of entertainment with education. A Scholastic-branded show is not preachy or moralistic, rather it’s always fun and enriching for kids. We deliver solid performance and critical acclaim for broadcasters who program for preschool to 11-year-olds.”

The strength of Scholastic’s content has allowed it to cross into several other media. “We must be where the kids are—in meaningful ways—with rich online experiences, interactive games and consumer products and promotions that enhance the viewing or reading experience,” says Kahn. “Our brands are developed and produced with all media applications in mind, to ensure that kids connect to our brands in ways that make sense for their individual preferences.”

Kahn, who began her career as a teacher, understands not only what children like, but also what messages are important for them to hear. “Scholastic strives to create shows with universal themes that connect with kids from many different backgrounds through humor, strong stories, and identifiable characters. We offer truly global programs that work in many different cultures.”

Beyond its classic titles Clifford the Big Red Dog and Clifford’s Puppy Days and the newer Maya & Miguel, at MIPCOM Scholastic is offering buyers WordGirl. “It’s smart, and funny—an animated superhero spoof,” explains Kahn. “Kids will laugh and they’ll learn a few new words in each episode. But WordGirl is not didactic. Hilarious villains get caught by WordGirl every time and each time is sillier than the next.”

Scholastic is also bringing a couple of new properties in development. The first is Chicken Socks, inspired by the Klutz books. “This puppet series is targeted at kids 2 to 6,” says Kahn. “Preschoolers will be able to follow the adventures of Chicken Socks, the world’s most inquisitive sock-wearing chicken, as he explores the science behind everyday objects. We’re also bringing Sammy’s Story Shop, a new compilation show that highlights the Weston Woods video library of bestselling and award-winning animated children’s picture books.”

Kahn’s fascination with children and her immense respect for them have been guiding forces all through her career. And she has enjoyed finding like-minded people in other countries. “Buyers and sellers in the kids’ business are extremely concerned about the welfare of children, and they truly want to entertain kids in many different ways, especially by challenging their creativity and pushing the limits of creative production. It’s fabulous to be among such hugely talented people—within my company and all over the world.”