Scholastic Entertainment, the media division of the largest children’s book publisher, is partnering with television producer Gaumont to co-develop and co-produce Rocket Park, an animated preschool series. The new program is inspired by Sofia Sanchez, a 13-year-old Down syndrome self-advocate, actress, model and inspiration for two children’s books: You Are Enough and soon-to-be-released You Are Loved, both written by Margaret O’Hair, illustrated by Sofia Cardoso and published by Scholastic.
Consisting of 11-minute episodes and original music, the uplifting series will focus on four kids who work together to help their community and, in doing so, teach young viewers about the power of embracing and celebrating differences, accepting others and themselves, and loving friends and family for exactly who they are.
“I can’t wait to teach children how to be good helpers,” said Sanchez. “This is going to be so much fun!”
Sanchez is unique, yet her message is universal: we all belong. You Are Enough, an inclusive and empowering picture book that includes a vast set of kid characters with all kinds of backgrounds, experiences and abilities, reminds readers how important it is to embrace differences, be confident and be proud of one’s self. The upcoming companion book, You Are Loved (to be published March 2023), introduces readers to all different types of families—from Sofia’s adopted family to blended families, those with two moms and two dads or single parents, mixed race families and kids raised by grandparents, guardians or older siblings—and shares the important message that families are more than the people you live with, but the people you choose, and who love you just the way you are.
Will you tune into this new animated series?