A season to celebrate Mister Rogers and the kindness he shared

“Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood,” the landmark children’s television show that first aired in 1968, taught kindness, respect and honesty to generations of children across the nation.

His unique child-friendly messaging reminds us that community isn’t always made with grand gestures, but made by the little moments of care we share each day. Mister Rogers understood this better than anyone, as his lessons weren’t only made for television, but also for real life. This time of year is a good time be reminded of the values Mister Rogers taught, like kindness, friendship and being neighborly.

The renowned children’s show starred characters that didn’t always get along, yet Mister Rogers took time to understand each of them and show empathy, never judgment.

In Mister Rogers’ song, “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” he sings, “Since we’re together, we might as well say, would you be mine? Could you be mine? Won’t you be my neighbor?” This song reminds us to be kind and welcoming to all. During this holiday season, let’s be neighbors with those around us.

Don’t miss ‘Mister Rogers: It’s You I Like,’ a 60-minute retrospective tribute to the beloved Fred Rogers and the nearly 900 episodes of his children’s television program. 

Stream it on the Arizona PBS app, starting Sunday, November 23 at 6:30 p.m.