On December 26, 1970, the Children's Television Workshop (now known as Sesame Workshop) aired its first special, 'The Electric Company,' on PBS. This show aimed to teach reading and writing skills to children through fun sketches and engaging characters.

The Electric Company was created by a team led by Joan Ganz Cooney. The series featured a cast of talented actors such as Rita Moreno and Morgan Freeman, who brought the educational messages to life in an entertaining way.

The show's format engaged children and encouraged creativity, becoming a cornerstone of educational television. It influenced generations of children and laid the groundwork for later educational programs.

Parents and educators praised the show for making learning fun, resulting in high viewership ratings. It effectively combined entertainment with education, often regarded as a model for future children’s programming.

The Electric Company featured innovative use of language, sound effects, and visuals to engage young audiences. It broke new ground by emphasizing learning through entertainment, a concept still popular today in children's media.

The show performed live tours and spin-offs, enhancing interaction with viewers beyond the screen. It helped cement children's television as a serious domain for education and advocacy.

The diversity of characters and storylines showcased real-world issues, teaching children moral lessons in relatable scenarios. Episodes tackled themes of teamwork, friendship, and creativity.

This innovative show quickly became a platform for social change and awareness, addressing elements of culture, race, and community—paving the way for similar initiatives in educational broadcasting.

Did you grow up watching shows that combined entertainment with learning? What were your favorites?