Nickelodeon is doubling its preschool-targeted programming with its latest series and specials slate, which will begin to debut on-air this summer, as part of the network’s multiyear plan to build its pre-k credentials (Nick is currently No. 1 for Kids 2-5 in Q1 2016 and year-to-date in full-day).
Nickelodeon currently has 15 preschool properties in development, including 10 shows in production and six set for premieres in 2018. According to Hollywood Reporter, Nick has ordered four new series, now in production: Nella the Princess Knight, Top Wing, Abby Hatcher and Butterbean’s Cafe.
Nella the Princess Knight, Nick’s first co-production with U.K.’s Channel 5, follows an unconventional heroine who goes on incredible quests and redefines traditional roles. The show is created by Blaze and the Monster Machines and Team Umizoomi curriculum consultant Christine Ricci, and features a social-emotional curriculum highlighting relationship development and positive messaging.
Top Wing, co-produced with 9 Story, is about a team of young birds who flock together to help their community and strive to become fully-fledged rescuers. The action-adventure series teaches teamwork and models problem solving skills, and is created by Matthew Fernandes and exec produced by Scott Kraft (PAW Patrol).
Abby Hatcher, from Spin Master Entertainment, is about a top-notch monster-catcher who helps friends and monsters solve their problems.
Butterbean’s Cafe takes place in a neighborhood eatery run by a fairy and her friends. The series incorporates creative cooking, farm-to-table philosophy and social-emotional curriculum focused on leadership skills. Produced by Brown Bag Films, the show is created by Bubble Guppies duo Jonny Belt and Robert Scull.
This summer, Nick Jr. will launch two previously announced new series (Rusty Rivets on August 22, Sunny Day TBA) and the new version of Teletubbies (May 30). Audiences can also expect two new Blaze and the Monster Machines specials and a PAW Patrol special this summer. The Blaze adventures sees the monster machine transform into a race car and visiting VelocityVille, and guest stars NASCAR drivers Danica Patrick, Jimmie Johnson, Chase Elliott and Kasey Kahne (May 30 & June 2). The two-part PAW Patrol: All Star Pups/Pups Save a Sports Day special premieres August 22 on Nickelodeon.
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