Fun Freetime: Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood

Next week, Daniel Tiger will experience some very important milestones on the show: a visit to the dentist and his first haircut! 

Three brand-new episodes of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, the hit animated series for preschoolers and their families from Fred Rogers Productions, will roll out nationally onPBS KIDS from January 7 to January 9 (check local listings). 

“Firsts” like going to the dentist or getting a haircut can be especially challenging for parents and young children and these new episodes of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood provide gentle and practical tips and life lessons through the show’s trademark musical strategies.

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood – New January Episodes

Premieres Monday, January 7, on PBS KIDS (check local listings)

“Daniel Visits the Dentist” – Daniel visits Dr. Plat, his new dentist. A little nervous at first, Daniel talks about what happens at the dentist, and this helps him feel better. Now, he’s ready for his teeth to be cleaned!   

“Daniel’s First Haircut” – Daniel is going with Nana Platypus to get his first haircut. Dad explains what’s going to happen at his haircut, so that Daniel feels more comfortable. He soon realizes that haircuts don’t hurt at all—they can even tickle!

Strategy: When we do something new, let’s talk about what we’ll do.

Premieres Tuesday, January 8, on PBS KIDS (check local listings)

“Daniel’s Obstacle Course” – Daniel and Margaret are playing on a homemade obstacle course! When Daniel plays too fast and loud, and Margaret gets upset, Daniel realizes that sometimes he needs to play slowly and gently with his baby sister.

“Daniel Plays in a Gentle Way” – Daniel Tiger is playing outside at school, but his friends start to play too fast and rough with him. Daniel and his friends learn that sometimes friends want to play fast, but other times, it’s important to play slowly and gently.

Strategy: Sometimes you need to play in a gentle way!

Premieres Wednesday, January 9, on PBS KIDS (check local listings)

“Daniel Learns to Ask First” – When Daniel needs a drumstick for his pretend marching band, he takes away a spoon that Margaret was using, which makes her cry. Dad Tiger teaches Daniel that he needs to ask first before taking something away from someone else.

“Friends Ask First” – O the Owl is reading a story to his class at school, but when Prince Wednesday grabs the book to get a closer look, no one else can see the pictures. Teacher Harriet explains that you should ask first if it’s okay before you take something away from someone else.

Strategy: Before you take something away, ask first if it’s okay!