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Let me introduce you to Mister Rogers and Mister Dressup. Perhaps they need no introduction, especially if you are from my generation. Or perhaps you have heard stories from your parents. In my day, these two shows were a much slower counterpart to the fast-paced Sesame Street and Electric Company. At the time, Mister Rogers was even a bit too slow for me, as I impatiently waited for the train whistle to blow and the part where things really got exciting – the Neighbourhood of Make-Believe, where people and hand-puppets interacted and stories were enacted.
Only now, as an adult turned child developmentalist, am I able to look back and see the intention of it all. And only in watching documentaries on Mister Rogers life and legacy am I able to see the courage required to put on a show that talked about the importance of feelings and relationships, in an era where entertainment was valued. The courage to advocate for something radical and to resist the Hollywood pressure to give people what they wanted, an escape from their everyday life. Mister Rogers did deliver an escape into an imaginary world, but in this world there was room for connections with people and the processing of hard stuff – all one step removed in the realm of Make-Believe. He knew what was needed and was determined to make an impact in children’s lives. Mister Rogers created room and a gentle invitation to explore difficult experiences and the emotions that were stirred up as a result.
READ THE REST OF TAMARA'S EDITORIAL HERE >
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