An Analysis of the Current Landscape of Children's Television and the Creation of Lila and Evie

Emma Jacques

Abstract:
Over the last few decades, children's television has progressed in its educational content, inclusivity and appeal to all young audiences. I conducted a literature review of research on the effects, effectiveness, and regulations of children's television. Secondly, I performed my own analysis of animated shows geared towards ten to twelve year old children made within the last ten years and determined what common themes, tropes, art styles, and the like were used throughout the shows I watched. I found significant progress in the development of emotionally and academically educational, well-crafted shows that meet the needs of their diverse audiences. However, there is still progress to be made.

This led me into the second portion of this thesis, where I set out to develop my own children's show based on my findings from my literature review and my observations from my analysis. I created Lila and Evie, the story of best friends, Lila and Evie, who must protect, explore and learn as junior park rangers of the Great Woods and Beyond. My development of this show consists of a pilot script, character mock-ups and descriptions, storyboards, world structure, a look and feel guide, and an outline of the show's first season.

My presentation will cover my analysis, the contents of my show and how I believe my show would fit into and enhance the current landscape of children's television.