Fun Freetime: Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood and Justin Mraz

This Valentine’s Day, multi-Grammy Award-winning and multi-platinum pop artist Jason Mraz brings his signature sound to the hit television series for preschoolers, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood! “You Are Special,” an all-new episode of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood will premiere nationally on PBS KIDS, Thursday, February 14 (check local listings).

Children’s television visionary Fred Rogers has long been an inspiration to Mraz, who even performs the theme from the beloved Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood at some of his concerts. Now, with the upcoming special episode of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, Mraz will help bring Rogers’ timely message of love and acceptance to a new generation of preschoolers and families nationwide! The world-renowned musician has recorded the opening and closing tunes – “It’s a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” and “It’s Such a Good Feeling” – classic songs penned and originally performed by Rogers himself.

The (very lovable!) episode also features a sweet strategy for young viewers, one that was near and dear to Rogers’ own heart: “I like you just the way you are.” You can share the love and celebrate the important message of this extra-adorable show with the little ones in your life with these fun tips inspired by Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood and the new episode, “You Are Special”:

• Make a Valentine! Help your child create a very special Valentine for a very special someone who is important to them. It can be a relative, teacher, friend - or another “neighbor” who they care about. Be sure to include what makes that person so wonderful! 
• Sing a Song! Daniel Tiger loves to sing songs! Have your child write their own lyrics to the classic “You are Special” tune and invite them to sing it to an extra-special friend or relative
• Take a Valentine’s Day Walk! Stroll through your own neighborhood just like Daniel and Dad do together in the new episode, stopping to say “hello” to all the neighbors and friends you meet along the way 
• Create a “You Are Special” List! Think about it together and write down some of the unique things that make each family member or friend so special and lovable 
• Tune-in to “You Are Special”! Watching this endearing episode of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood is the perfect way for preschoolers and families to celebrate the Valentine’s Day holiday together.