PBS KIDS & PBS KIDS GO! Unveil Fall Schedule

BALTIMORE: PBS KIDS is to feature a number of series that foster preschoolers’ science exploration in its fall lineup, while PBS KIDS GO! targets early elementary school kids with new literacy content.

On September 7, the CGI-animated series Dinosaur Train will debut on PBS KIDS. The series combines preschoolers’ fascination with both dinosaurs and trains, while encouraging scientific thinking. Also extending the scientific learning of preschoolers is the new curriculum-themed season of It’s a Big Big World. Barney & Friends introduces a green-themed special focusing on the animals, plants and insects that live in the rainforest. Sesame Street launches into its 40th season on November 10 with a focus on green themes and a host of celebrity guests. Sid the Science Kid will launch in a week of new episodes about weather beginning September 14.

Super Why! returns with new episodes in November. A new season of Between the Lions introduces two more dinosaur characters. Martha Speaks and WordWorld are also on the roster, as are Curious George, Thomas & Friends and Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

For early elementary school kids, PBS KIDS GO! is introducing a daily airing of The Electric Company. Starting September 7, the show will promote strong literacy skills and reinforce the idea that reading is cool. A special two-part episode of Arthur tackles the sensitive subject of a character’s cancer treatment. The episode will air every day of the week starting October 19. The new season of Fetch! with Ruff Ruffman kicks off with science-themed challenges. Cyberchase and WordGirl will also be on the slate.

Online, PBSKIDSGO.org launches Lifeboat to Mars, a science education game that challenges kids to learn key biology concepts to rebuild a virtual ecosystem. The PBS KIDS GO! video player debuts a new Back to School channel, featuring themed episodes to help kids deal with the mixed emotions of going back to school. For parents and educators, PBSParents.org will showcase Getting Ready for School and Settling into School, both focused on how to deal with children’s return to the classroom.