Helpsters

Helpsters is an innovative children's television show produced exclusively for Apple TV+. The show launched in 2019 and has been celebrated for its engaging and educational content which particularly focuses on teaching children key problem-solving skills through entertaining episodes. The series adopts a carefully structured approach to learning, making it no ordinary kids' show. It is a collaboration with the Sesame Workshop, the non-profit educational organization behind the timeless classic Sesame Street, which ensures time-tested educational methodologies underpin the program's content.

The protagonist of Helpsters is an amicable monster named Cody who, along with her band of lively friends, are the ‘Helpsters.’ This friendly group of monsters is ready to solve any problem that comes their way. They are eager to take on challenges, and the problems they solve range from the simple day-to-day issues to complex conundrums. Cody's team includes Scatter, Mr. Primm, Heart, and Jackie. Each character has its own distinct style and personality, contributing unique qualities and unique strengths to the team, and promoting the idea of teamwork to the children watching.

One of the key features of the show is that it utilises concepts of coding to teach children how to tackle problems. Learning abstract concepts of coding might feel challenging; however, Helpsters masterfully incorporates these principles into their fun storylines and daily problem-solving escapades, making the concepts intuitively understandable to the kids. However, it's done subtly - the young viewers will be more engaged in the fun storylines and quirky characters, not even realizing they're learning these important skills.

The series is also praised for its vibrant and colourful puppetry, which gives it a charming and captivating aesthetic. It smartly uses the inherited legacy of puppetry from its creative lineage tracing back to Sesame Street, effectively engaging children with vibrant colours, laughter, songs, and dance. The characters are incredibly expressive and are as funny as they are loveable. They’re full of positivity and promote an affirmative attitude towards resolving conflicts. Through their fun interactions, the Helpsters impart important life lessons on relationships, communication, cooperation, initiative, and the satisfaction that comes from helping others.

Even though the content of this show is particularly aimed at preschoolers, the sweet, gentle humour and the energy of the characters keeps it enjoyable and engaging for parents too. Considering the fun element for the kids, coupled with the hidden educational gems within the episodes, parents will find peace of mind watching their little ones enjoying the show.

Music is a quintessential part of any children’s programming, and Helpsters understands this extremely well. The show integrates catchy tunes and melodic jingles that kids can sing along with, thus helping to reinforce the lessons being taught. The lively musical numbers are a mix of different genres that keep the show’s soundtrack vibrant and the viewing experience fun-filled.

Moreover, the series has hosted a number of popular guest stars. Celebrities from various fields, including musicians, athletes, and comedians, have made an appearance on the show, adding an extra spark to the episodic adventures. Their inclusion not only broadens the appeal of the show, but these famous personalities also get actively involved in solving problems with the Helpsters, making the entire process far more exciting and relatable for the children.

All in all, Helpsters is a rare find in children’s programming. It strikes a perfect balance of educating while entertaining. By integrating the concepts of coding into problem-solving narratives, the show progressively equips children with critical thinking and basic coding skills. With appealing puppetry, hilarious moments, kind-hearted and interesting characters, and its high-quality educational content, Helpsters is not just a television show but an immersive learning experience for children, helping them develop the skills necessary to succeed in the 21st century.