MAPACA

Mid-Atlantic Popular &
American Culture Association

Walkable communities featuring a diverse populace surrounded by the amenities of middle class life might not always find a home on traditional prime time television, however, in the world of children’s programming several shows take place in and endorse these liberal Utopias. These communities typically represent a variety of ethnic groups, classes, and lifestyles and how these various groups work together within the fictional communities represent a way for children to understand the concept of community. What makes the communities of these programs so interesting is how the communities hold a mirror to the changing demographics and the representation of various familial structures.

By looking in depth at the programs “Arthur” and “Handy Manny” while also looking historically at other children’s programs and various other current programs and look at how children’s television uses representation and diversity to educate children about difference and to also affect changes in cultural attitudes. By focusing on children’s programming and the way it uses animation, music, and story to enhance the liberal Utopias they create, larger issues of acceptance and changing social values can be seen as the effect of these programs.