Help kids embrace the spirit of caring: Check out ‘Many Ways to Show You Care’ from Fred Rogers Productions

Beginning this month, families can find lots of inspiration through a multiplatform content initiative from Fred Rogers Productions called Many Ways to Show You Care. 

Content available on pbskids.org, the PBS KIDS Video app, and the PBS KIDS for Parents YouTube channel includes documentary shorts, a Fred Rogers-inspired music video, educator lesson plans, and family activities. The series highlights caregiving as a natural part of family life in age-appropriate stories for children 2-6. It’s designed to be an approachable way for kids to see there are many ways to show they care and it’s a child-focused companion to “Caregiving,” the powerful PBS documentary executive produced and narrated by actor and director Bradley Cooper.

The live-action documentary videos about three Pittsburgh-based kids were captured by local production company Vinegar Hill and are hosted by PBS KIDS characters, including Daniel Tiger, Donkey Hodie and Alma Rivera from “Alma’s Way.” One is Anabella, a 10-year-old big sister who lends her parents a hand as they care for both of her younger brothers, one of whom has multiple disabilities. Here is her story: 

Another is Ramiro, a spunky 6 1/2-year-old who helps his great-grandma with everyday tasks. Here is his story: 

And lastly, kids can discover the story of Josh, a thoughtful 11-year-old who helps his father, who has a traumatic brain injury. Here is his story:

Additionally, a music video featuring a reimagined version of the popular Fred Rogers song, “There Are Many Ways to Say I Love You,” shows Daniel Tiger, Donkey Hodie, Alma Rivera, and Mister Rogers singing together. 

Families and caregivers can also find activities on the PBS KIDS for Parents website. These educational materials are developed by Fred Rogers Productions and child development experts to help teach compassion, empathy, self-care and family support.

“Many Ways to Show You Care is directly inspired by ‘There Are Many Ways to Say I Love You’ as an opportunity for children to both see themselves and to learn more about the ways caregiving can be a part of a loving family,” said Ellen Doherty, chief creative officer for Fred Rogers Productions and executive producer of the project. “We are thrilled to collaborate with the ‘Caregiving’ team to provide content for kids that is accessible to them and tied to Fred Rogers’ legacy.”

Photo at top of story courtesy of Fred Rogers Productions.