MUMBAI: Cartoon Network and the Warner Bros. Television Group have plans for the preschool brigade in the US.
The two companies have announced their first major production foray into the preschool market.
The programming franchise will launch next year. It will be different from other media properties by its primary emphasis on developing, nurturing and valuing a child's sense of humor. This is an essential aspect of a happy, well-adjusted child.
All the series will be developed in collaboration with a Child Development Advisory Board and from a curriculum framework based on the importance of humour to children's healthy development.
The first series will come from Warner Bros. Animation and DC Comics. Krypto follows the adventures of Superman's faithful canine companion when he lands in Metropolis after being jettisoned as a test-pilot puppy aboard a rocket ship made by Superman's father, Jor-El. He immediately becomes friends with a lonely boy named Kevin Whitney. Armed with a wide array of superpowers, Krypto, along with Kevin, fight forces of evil that threaten the well-being of people and animals in the Metropolis.
Cartoon Network US programming and development VP Alice Cahn will supervise the development and acquisition of programming. She will work closely with Warner Bros. Animation president Sander Schwartz, who will also be a major supplier to the joint venture.
Cahn added, "On weekday mornings, we know that younger children comprise the majority of our viewers when older siblings head off to school. The significant resources and ingenuity of Warner Bros. Animation provides us a powerful partner to help build this new franchise into a joyful, meaningful experience for these young viewers.
"Research showed us that the marketplace was filled with television services pushing traditional skill-based curriculum for youngsters. However nothing specifically addressed the importance of letting kids be kids and showcasing humor to facilitate friendship, learning and self-esteem - what I'm terming 'smart fun'."
