BBC Studios Natural History Unit Sets Two New Kids’ Commissions

BBC Studios Natural History Unit has started production on a pair of new children’s commissions for CBeebies and CBBC iPlayer featuring Andy Day and Steve Backshall, respectively.

The Day-fronted Andy’s Dino Toybox and DIY Deadly with Steve Backshall will reflect changes in routine when homeschooling, promote staycation activities, explore nearby wildlife and discover new things to do and learn. The presenters will host the shows from within their own homes.

Andy’s Dinosaur Toybox, a 15×3-minute short-form series, sees Andy bring his toy dinosaurs to life. It is the newest installment of the Andy’s Adventure series, which also includes Andy’s Safari Adventures, Andy’s Wild Adventures, Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures, Andy’s Prehistoric Adventures and Andy’s Aquatic Adventures. In DIY Deadly with Steve Backshall, the presenter will identify deadly animals living right under our noses and share anecdotes about Deadly 60 adventures, with audiences encouraged to send in pictures and videos from their own homes to share what they’re seeing.

Jo Shinner, executive producer of the Natural History Unit, said: “During this time of uncertainty it is really beneficial for kids to feel connected to nature and what better way than having family favorites Andy Day and Steve Backshall encouraging children of all ages to explore and celebrate the natural world around them. Our amazing NHU children’s team in Bristol have come up with brilliant solutions to safely create brand-new content to delight our youngest audiences.”

Backshall said: “DIY Deadly will be a unique opportunity to connect with the CBBC audience, it’ll give us the chance to hear what’s important to them, and deliver—deadly denizens, lockdown activities, home school facts and backyard beasties!”