From libraries and schools to museums and innovation hubs, Arkansas PBS loves to partner with communities throughout the state! By fostering learning, creativity and cultural connection, we ensure that knowledge and opportunity are accessible to all. In honor of Autism Awareness Month, we’re reflecting on a recent event in February, where we partnered with HorsePlay Hippotherapy & Therapeutic Riding, Inc., Milestones Services, Inc., The Arkansas Autism Resource & Outreach Center, Faulkner County Library and Therapy Monkey to host a celebration of neurodiversity at Faulkner County Library. More than 100 people attended the event.
“It is a true blessing to have such quality events for children to be able to attend, learn, experience and enjoy!” one grandparent said. “We can’t wait to see what treasures she puts in her new collecting jar. Thank you so very much, Arkansas PBS!”
The event was designed to provide a welcoming and engaging environment for individuals. Featuring interactive activities, games, a low-sensory quiet room, and screenings of the new PBS KIDS series “Carl the Collector,” the gathering emphasized inclusion and accessibility for all.
“My son loved meeting the horses from HorsePlay, seeing the new characters from the new PBS KIDS show and making his own collection jar. His favorite part, though, was the sensory room—it was such a thoughtful and inclusive touch!”
“Carl the Collector,” which premiered in November, follows the everyday adventures of Carl, a warm-hearted autistic raccoon who enjoys collecting things and loves his friends and family in Fuzzytown. Through its relatable stories, characters and messages – and with a production team that includes neurodiverse writers, production staff, animators, advisors and voice talent – “Carl the Collector” showcases and celebrates individual differences and commonalities and that everyone has something unique to offer.
Hear from our partners about the event:
From the Faulkner County Library: "We loved partnering with Arkansas PBS and other community organizations to bring this event to our community! Families seemed to have many positive interactions with the participating organizations and each other. Lots of families watched the ‘Carl the Collector’ episodes in addition to playing with the sensory toys, visiting the therapy ponies, making collecting jars and visiting the sensory room. We appreciated partnering with Arkansas PBS and other community organizations in a way that let children with autism feel safe and authentically themselves at the library."
From HorsePlay Hippotherapy & Therapeutic Riding, Inc.: “We were honored to be part of the ‘Carl the Collector’ event at the Faulkner County Library. Bringing our therapy horses and watching kids light up with joy was such a powerful reminder of why we do what we do. This event was a beautiful example of inclusion, and we were proud to partner with Arkansas PBS to create something so meaningful for the community.”
From Therapy Monkey: “Therapy Monkey was proud to participate in the ‘Carl the Collector’ event alongside Arkansas PBS. Our team loved connecting with families and sharing resources that support children’s development. From the engaging and inclusive show to the sensory-friendly activities, the entire day was thoughtfully designed—and we were thrilled to be part of something that celebrated every child exactly as they are.”
Family engagement events and kids’ community initiatives are led by the Arkansas PBS Education team. For more information, contact Arkansas PBS Community Education Manager Karen Walker at kwalker@myarkansaspbs.org.
HOW TO WATCH:
Catch episodes of “Carl the Collector” every morning at 7:30 a.m. on Arkansas PBS.
SEE MORE EVENTS:
Visit myarpbs.org/events to see our upcoming events!