WTCI-TV 45 will soon begin airing free localized 24/7 children’s services that will include an app, live online stream and a 24-hour broadcast of PBS Kids on over-the-air digital channel 45.3.
Viewers can watch the WTCI-branded live stream throughpbskids.org and on the PBS Kids Video App, which is available on a variety of mobile devices, and tablets, according to a news release. The live stream will be available on over-the-top platforms such as Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Xbox One and Chromecast soon after the launch date of Jan. 16.
The live stream complements on-demand clips and full episodes, which will continue to be available for free on the PBS KIDS Video App and streaming via pbskids.org. The WTCI PBS Kids 24/7 channel will include popular favorites such as “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood,” “Odd Squad,” “Wild Kratts,” and “Dinosaur Train” and newer series like “Splash and Bubbles,” “Nature Cat” and “Ready Jet Go!”
The programming is being provided by WTCI with support from developers Ken and Byron DeFoor.
Some time after the launch, the localized live stream experience will expand to offer an integrated games feature, enabling children to toggle between a PBS Kids show and an activity that complements learning. The live stream and games feature is grounded in research demonstrating that measurable gains in learning are achieved when children engage with PBS Kids content on multiple platforms. The games will align with the learning goals of each TV series, deepening children’s involvement and supporting learning.
“WTCI has been an integral part of the community for over 45 years, delivering content and services that parents trust and that move the needle in early learning,” said Paul Grove, President and CEO of WTCI. “We are excited to build on the work we do every day for Chattanooga area families by adding these new 24/7 services to our offerings, ensuring that our proven educational content is accessible anytime and anywhere to all kids – especially those who need it the most.”