This fall, meet CARL THE COLLECTOR, a brand-new PBS KIDS series that follows the heartwarming adventures of Carl, a thoughtful raccoon who loves collecting things.
Carl's unique collections often help him solve problems in his community, showcasing his creativity and compassion. As the first PBS KIDS main character with autism, Carl's journey brings a fresh and inclusive perspective to children’s programming.
You’ll fall in love with Carl’s diverse group of friends in Fuzzytown. Whether it’s his best friend Sheldon, a cautious beaver with a quirky fear of lemons, Forrest, a hyperactive squirrel with a tree nut allergy, or Lotta, an artistic fox who experiences synesthesia, each character brings something unique to the table. There are also the dynamic bunny twins, Nico and Arugula, who couldn’t be more different in personality but balance each other out perfectly.
Each character’s unique traits offer something for everyone to relate to and learn from! As a mom, I naturally connect with Carl’s mom. She sets a great example of how to guide your child through challenges, empowering them to solve problems independently rather than doing it for them.
One of the perks of my job is getting a sneak peek at upcoming shows. I laughed out loud more times than I can count, but I was also deeply moved by Carl’s relatable experiences. His struggles with anxiety in new situations or when things don't go as planned are deeply relatable on a personal level.
A standout element of the show is Carl’s “Synapse Junction.” When Carl needs to process his emotions, he says, “I need to collect my thoughts.” This transports viewers into Carl's mind, where he sorts through his thoughts and feelings. It’s a brilliant visual metaphor for problem-solving that encourages kids (and adults!) to take a moment to reflect and process emotions.
Does the art style feel familiar? That’s because CARL THE COLLECTOR was created by New York Times best-selling author and illustrator Zachariah Ohoro, adding an extra layer of warmth and charm to the series.
Available in English and Spanish, CARL THE COLLECTOR is all about inclusivity, empathy, compassion, and honoring what makes us unique. This show can bring us all together and celebrate that everyone has value and something to contribute. We hope you will join us at our Columbia studios for a special screening event on November 8, 2024 (more details to come).
I hope you’ll love Carl and his crew as much as I do! Tune in on November 14, and Happy Learning!
