GABBY HAYES TAUGHT FRED ROGERS HOW TO TALK TO CHILDREN ON TV.

I remember reading that Miss Frances would only promote products that were beneficial to children either physically (such as, in this case, Kix cereal) and/or mentally, and clashed with NBC because executives wanted her to plug toys like "space guns".

While the specific day isn't mentioned, there's enough said to indicate it's July 31.

Hello,

I’m attempting to apply the type of early media communication perfected by pioneers like Francis Horwich and Fred Rogers (my hero) to today’s ever evolving media and technology platforms.

I’m developing a transmedia project and corresponding webseries called Danny Joe’s Tree House. I am the creator and host. The first goal of the program is to encourage families to engage with nature through play in the digital age. I have no commercial interests with the project. I feel strongly that to achieve lasting emotional integrity with my fellow human beings I have to be my true self (not play a character), never compromise the show’s values with commercial influence and make the program free and accessible to anyone who wishes to participate.

Here is a link to a 3-minute preview on YouTube. I’d be very thankful for any constructive feedback and guidance.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rgqJeeQ9QMQ

Thank you,
-DJ

I remember watching Ding Dong School, and I believe I had some children's book of the show. Unlike the later Romper Room with its little classroom of local kids, DDS was just you and Miss Frances every day. Sort of like having your own private tutor. An important show for its historic role in the evolution of children's television. Peabody Award 1953, nominated for an Emmy 3 consecutive years.

If I ever have enough money, I'm gonna produce my own revival of this show. This is exactly what I think pre-schooler's TV should be like. No fancy props, no cheesy music, no cloying co-hosts..This show just features a teacher doing regular teacher things, hence the title "Ding Dong School". I admit the organ segment is a bit dated but much of the show could still work today.

They don't make kids shows like this anymore...

How old do you think "miss Helen" the organist was? 85, by the looks of her hands. Love that Hammond sound!

And the smiley face in the bowl of Kix!

Gee it's swell!

This was a show I loved when I was 12. I watched it every day I could after school. The "teacher" was a good role model and she "taught" some fun things to do.