Sid the Science Kid

NAME: Sid the Science Kid

ORIGIN: The series was created to promote exploration, discovery and science readiness among preschoolers.

DISTRIBUTOR: The Jim Henson Company

TV SHOW: Season one consists of 40 half-hour episodes

DESCRIPTION: Sid the Science Kid, The Jim Henson Company’s first series for PBS KIDS, features a practical in-school science curriculum, uses music and humor to celebrate children’s natural curiosity about science in everyday life. The energetic and inquisitive Sid starts each episode with a new question (“Why are my shoes shrinking?” “Why do bananas get mushy?”) and embarks on a fun-filled day of finding answers with the help of family and friends.

EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Co-produced by The Jim Henson Company and KCET Los Angeles for PBS KIDS

COMMISSIONING/MAIN BROADCASTER: PBS KIDS

TV SALES: France 5, RTP, Selecta Vision, Discovery Kids Latin America, TV Ontario, SCN-Saskatchewan, Al Jazeera, Noga Communications, E-Vision, Botswana Television, TFO, The American Forces Network and British Columbia’s Knowledge.

MAJOR TOY LICENSEES: Hasbro has signed on as master toy licensee, with initial product scheduled to hit stores in late fall 2009. Exim Licensing will handle all licensing and merchandising across Latin America.

OTHER PRODUCTS: NCircle Entertainment is handling DVDs with first titles to be released in late summer.

STRATEGY FOR ROLLOUT: "Our strategy for Sid the Science Kid is to give the television series the opportunity to generate awareness in the U.S. via the PBS KIDS platform before rolling the series out internationally and introducing product at retail marketplace," said Sam Ewing, the head of international sales and new programming at The Jim Henson Company. "Our September 2008 television debut has proved successful, and with a two-year on-air guarantee from PBS KIDS, we anticipate the franchise to continue to grow and to build a strong audience base. We intend to create platforms that support the property and make sense for its growth, such as the series companion website and a strategic merchandise line. In 2009, we will continue to premiere new episodes and will begin introducing merchandise that supports the content."