PBS Kids is reworking many of its most popular shows to be more accessible to children with disabilities.

The network is offering up alternate versions of episodes from six shows to add American Sign Language interpreters in a bid to better serve children who are deaf and hard of hearing.

Given that PBS Kids content is aimed at those ages 2 to 8, the network said that many are not yet able to read captions and would benefit from ASL.

“PBS KIDS aims to reach kids across the country with accessible, high-quality content,” said Jen Rodriguez, director of research and inclusive design at PBS. “This new ASL content builds on PBS Kids’ extensive accessibility offerings and unwavering dedication to inclusivity, aiming to empower kids to engage with content in ways that best suit their individual needs and preferences, with accessibility top of mind.”

PBS Kids worked with Bridge Multimedia, which helps businesses improve accessibility, and conducted user testing to integrate interpreters on screen in an optimal way. Those behind the effort said they took pains to place the interpreter close to the speaking character and dress the interpreter to look more like the character.

ASL versions of “Work It Out Wombats!,” “Pinkalicious & Peterrific,” “Arthur,” “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood,” “Donkey Hodie” and “Alma’s Way” are now streaming on the PBS Kids website, app and YouTube channel.

There are currently 10 episodes of each show featuring ASL interpretation, but those behind the effort said they hope to expand the offering in the future.

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