PBS Kids READY JET GO! Premieres February 15th

Last year at the PBS annual meeting we learned about a new series, READY JET GO! that focuses on astronomy, technology, scientific exploration, innovation and invention.  The show premieres this Monday, February 15 on PBS stations nationwide. Seen through the eyes of Jet Propulsion and his family, we see what it is like to be an alien from outer space, the whole while learning about our solar system, how it affects our planet and features live-action interstitials with Jet Propulsion Laboratory astrophysicist Dr. Amy Mainzer, who is also a science curriculum consultant for the series.

Designed for kids ages 3-8 but your older kids might like it as well – mine sure does!  She had a chance to watch one of the episodes and we both learned quite a bit about our planet and solar system.  I find the show to be very educational with a wonderful emphasis on friendship and family.  Jet’s Earth friends Sean and Sydney go along on his astronomical adventures while he is exploring the solar system and planet.

Created by Craig Bartlett (DINOSAUR TRAIN), READY JET GO! really sparks children’s inherent excitement about science, technology and astronomy, while telling stories that feature characters learning about space in a way that appeals to, and is accessible by, young children. The comedy and music help kids learn a variety of physical science concepts, such as gravity, tides and moon phases. At the heart of every episode is a basic, kid-friendly question about outer space or Earth science. In the show, the characters often use a scientific method to find the answers to their questions.  Craig played us a couple of his songs he created for READY JET GO! that are really catchy and educational at the same time.  Each song is intended to teach kids about planet Earth and/or about our solar system.  You can tell Craig really enjoys what he does and he makes it fun for kids to learn about our planet and space exploration.

Dr. Mainzer is absolutely amazing and she brings such excitement to the episodes.  At the last PBS Press Tour in January, Dr. Mainzer did a hands-on experiment for all of us in the audience and created moon rock out of mud, rocks and dry ice.  You can’t help but get drawn in by her excitement while she teaches you about what moon rock and comets are made out of. “When I was a little kid, as soon as I learned just a little bit about the universe, I was hooked for life,” said Dr. Mainzer. “Kids are born as little scientists, so reaching them early is key to igniting a lifelong love for science and appreciation for the planet we live on.”  You can check out some of Astronomer Amy’s video’s here.  She is such a natural educator!  And be sure to show the kids the Live Space Station feed here.

Each episode of READY JET GO! will include two 11-minute stories, as well as a live-action interstitial. The series also features both curriculum and character-driven original songs, sung by the entire cast, with topics ranging from a love duet between Mr. and Mrs. Propulsion to a description of our galaxy’s stars.

“Public media is a natural home for READY JET GO!, giving all children a free and safe place to explore science content,” said Debra Sanchez, Senior Vice President, Education and Children’s Content at the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.

Created by Craig Bartlett, READY JET GO! is produced by Wind Dancer Films. PBS SoCaL is a station partner for the series. Major funding for the series is provided by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB).

Be sure to check out the READY JET GO website for some educational activities, video clips and games for the kids.

Good News!  We have a fun READY JET GO!

Giveaway that includes:

READY JET GO picnic blanket

PBS Kids pin

Melissa & Doug Write-a-Mat Countries of the World (ages 8+)

Melissa & Doug Learning Mat Crayons

Liqui-Fly Hydro Rocket (ages 8+)

READY JET GO Premiere DVD

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Note: We are part of the PBS Kids VIP program and provided promotional material throughout the year but all opinions are our own.