PBS Kids Unveils New Animated Series Alma’s Way

PBS Kids has added to its programming roster Alma’s Way, a new animated series from Fred Rogers Productions.

The series is created by actor and writer Sonia Manzano, who played Maria on Sesame Street. Targeted for children ages 4 to 6, the show follows 6-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.

It is slated to debut across the U.S. 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 Linda Simensky, head of PBS Kids Content.“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 exist across the country.”

“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 Ellen Doherty, chief creative officer of Fred Rogers Productions. “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.”