Core Memories from PBS Kids Shows and the Inspiring Moments That Still Stick With Us

Public television has been home to some of the most memorable and groundbreaking moments in children’s television – moments that became cultural touchstones and introduced characters who left an enduring mark. Here are some of the moments from PBS kids shows that have stuck with us, shaping conversations about ourselves and others along the way. 

Mister Rogers Shares a Wading Pool with Officer Clemmons

In a quiet but powerful moment during a 1969 episode of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, Fred Rogers invites Officer Clemmons (a Black police officer played by François Clemmons) to join him in cooling their feet in a small wading pool on a hot day. At a time when many public pools were segregated and still a source of racial tension, the image of a white man and a Black man sharing water was a gentle but definitive act of inclusion. As he dries off his feet, Officer Clemmons sings a little bit of Mr. Rogers’ song, “Children Can.” Mr. Rogers closes the segment by saying, “Great to live in a neighborhood with special people like Officer Clemmons.”

Big Bird Learns about Mr. Hooper’s Death

In a 1983 episode of Sesame Street, Big Bird shares portraits of all his grown-up friends outside Hooper’s store. But when it comes time to share his portrait of Mr. Hooper, the adults gently tell him that Mr. Hooper died and isn’t coming back. In one of the most poignant moments in television history, the adults with real tears in their eyes, speak honestly and explain that death is permanent. They tell Big Bird that they will always remember him, and that they will take care of Big Bird and one another. 

Elmo Meets Firefighters After a Fire at Hooper’s Store

In the first new episode after 9/11, Sesame Street indirectly addressed the events with a fire at Hooper’s store. According to Sesame Workshop, producers were in the middle of shooting the upcoming 33rd season when the attacks happened. With four remaining shows to write for the season, they decided to address the fear many felt after 9/11. In the episode, a fire breaks out at Hooper’s store while Elmo and Maria are there for lunch. They call the fire department, and real-life firefighters, including FDNY captain Bill Walsh, show up to put out the fire and offer comfort to Elmo, who is left shaken. Bill explains his equipment to Elmo, and then encourages Elmo and Maria to visit a real New York City firehouse – which lost firefighters in 9/11 – to show him around. 

Julia – the First Muppet with Autism – Joins Sesame Street 

Sesame Workshop first introduced Julia, a 4-year-old Muppet with autism, in an online autism awareness campaign in 2015. In 2017, Julia made her official Sesame Street debut. When Big Bird greets her while painting with Elmo and Abby Cadabby, Julia doesn’t respond right away. When Big Bird wonders if Julia doesn’t like him, Alan explains that Julia has autism, and explains that she “may not do what you expect,” like high-five Big Bird, but she is still lots of fun to play with and loves to be with her friends. 

Mr. Ratburn Gets Married in Arthur

In the Season 22 premiere of Arthur in 2019, Arthur and his classmates learn that their teacher, Mr. Ratburn, is getting married, but they don’t know who his “special someone” is. At the wedding, they’re surprised but happy to see him walking arm in arm with another man. The episode treats the moment without fanfare, focusing on the joy, friendship, and celebration of the wedding, making it a notable depiction of same-sex marriage in a long-running children’s animated series.