Lyla in the Loop debuts on PBS KIDS next month. Along with other favorites like Ada Twist Scientist and Peg Plus Cat, this show is a funny STEM-based animated series for kids ages 4-8.
Centering on a Black family—and, specifically, on Lyla, a bright 7-year-old engineer-in-training—the show will showcase solutions to everyday problems in a community-based environment. Lyla lives in a big city with her large family, sidekick Stu, and all manner of quirky but relatable characters from her community. Each character uses creative and critical thinking skills to tackle a host of everyday problems, from lending a hand on the neighborhood trash and recycling route to making a puppet show that recreates the Jamaican folktale, Anansi and the Goat.
There is one story where Lyla helps her sister navigate the ethics of creating an art project with Stu’s help, which showcases an age-appropriate example of current questions surrounding the use of real-world AI tools. In every adventure, young viewers will be introduced to and explore foundational computational thinking concepts. The series aims to support a wide range of learners, showcasing flexible approaches to finding solutions.
The series will debut interactive episodes at a later date, which will feature conversations with the series’ characters. For example, Lyla would break the fourth wall and pose a question to the viewer. After the viewer responds, she would then utilize non-generative AI technology to understand what user is saying, and then proceed accordingly with a pre-written response. My kids have loved the interactive adventures we have done so far, and are excited for a new show to interact with.
Inspired by his native Philadelphia, creator Dave Peth includes vocals from the students of public schools in Philadelphia in the series theme song, which was composed and performed by Grammy-nominated musician, Divinity Roxx.
“Finding stories and issues our audiences can relate to is paramount to creating the relatable world of Lyla Loops. When viewers can connect to and identify with characters, they’re more likely to absorb and retain the curriculum. Working with a diverse group of writers who share authentic stories and interrelationships that ring true is where we find inspiration, humor, and heartfelt moments that may spark new ways of looking at ourselves and our friends.” —Series Executive Producer and Head Writer Fracaswell Hyman.
Lyla in the Loop is created and Executive Produced by Emmy-winning producer Dave Peth (Odd Squad, Peg + Cat, Scribbles and Ink, Design Squad), founder of media production and consulting company Mighty Picnic. Pipeline Studios, the Emmy-winning children’s content studio (Elinor Wonders Why, Alma’s Way, Bubble Guppies), is animating the series. The show will debut in both English and Spanish on February 5, 2024.
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