Air Times: Saturdays and Sundays at 10:00 a.m. (ET/PT)
Episode Length: Approx. 30 minutes for 2 stories
Target Age Group: 2-6 years
Network: Disney Channel
Johnny and the Sprites – Overview
Johnny and the Sprites, a Disney Channel series for preschoolers, incorporates live-action, puppetry, and Broadway music to entertain and educate preschoolers.
Tony Award-nominee John Tartaglia stars as “Johnny,” a young singer/songwriter who moves out to the country after inheriting a family home. In his backyard, he discovers the entrance to an enchanted world inhabited by Sprites, and he develops a wonderful friendship with four Sprites named Ginger, Basil, Lily and Root. Their friendship provides a unique opportunity for them to learn together as they discover the similarities and differences between their two worlds.
Johnny and the Sprites (Back) John Tartaglia (Front) Lily, Root, Ginger
Photo © DisneyJohnny and the Sprites – Curriculum Overview
Each episode of Johnny and the Sprites contains two, 11-minute stories. Every story centers on an original Broadway style song which serves to develop or highlight the educational theme of the story.
Because Johnny and the Sprites come from different worlds, they are able to explore their differences and learn about respect and mutual understanding. The show also focuses on themes such as self-acceptance, community, the environment, and how people’s behavior affects the world around them.
Johnny and the Sprites – Guide Review
The colorful puppetry and engaging Broadway style music of Johnny and the Sprites is captivating to kids and even to adults. Kids will also love the rich scenery and the uniquely charming characters. Each Sprite embodies different personality traits, talents and physical characteristics, and they each represent a different component of nature, which adds depth and beauty to the show.
The show’s educational and social lessons unfold naturally within a strong and simple storyline. Children benefit from a clear, positive message within a story that is entertaining and fun.
Johnny and the Sprites – Expand Upon the Curriculum
- Each Sprite represents a component of nature – Ginger is an air sprite, Basil and Root are earth sprites, and Lily is a water sprite. Kids would have fun learning about how water is important to life while they play in the tub or a sink full of water. Or, take kids on a nature walk to find leaves and twigs, while explaining to them how humans depend on the earth, plants and trees. The concept of air can be explored by taking deep breaths, blowing up balloons, or watching a paper airplane fly.
- In one episode, Ginger learns that her curly antennae are part of what makes her unique. Have kids draw a picture of themselves and tell you about what makes them unique. Or, have them list the things they love to do and explain to them that their personalities and passions make them unique and special.
- Plant a bean or seed and help your children care for it and watch it grow.
