Don’t miss ‘Alma’s Way’ storytimes this month at local libraries

“Alma’s Way” image courtesy of Fred Rogers Productions.

Fred Rogers Productions and WQED’s library education program are hosting storytimes at local libraries this month with a focus on thinking skills.

These storytime events are built around the characters from “Alma’s Way,” a popular PBS KIDS animated TV series for viewers 4-6 created by Sonia Manzano (best known as Maria on “Sesame Street”). “Alma’s Way” follows 6-year-old Alma Rivera, a proud, confident Puerto Rican girl who lives in the Bronx with her parents, her younger brother Junior, and her Abuelo, as well as a diverse group of close-knit and loving friends, family, and community members. “Alma’s Way” celebrates and explores the thinking process — Alma’s “way” is to think things through.

Each event will vary based on the location, but will include a reading of an “Alma’s Way” book, a special craft, and in some cases a screening of an “Alma’s Way” episode, plus plenty of time for moving around, having snacks and more.

These events are happening:

April 3, 6:30 p.m. at Whitehall Public Library (100 Borough Park Dr, Pittsburgh)

April 5, 11 a.m. at Carnegie of Homestead (510 E 10th Ave, Munhall)

April 6, 10:30 a.m. at Zelienople Area Public Library (227 S High St, Zelienople)

April 12, 1 p.m. at Sewickley Township Public Library (201 Highland Ave, Herminie)

April 13, 10:30 a.m. at BF Jones Memorial Library (663 Franklin Ave, Aliquippa)

In other “Alma’s Way” news, Fred Rogers Productions recently secured a two-year $600,000 grant from the Arthur Vining Davis Foundations (AVDF) to continue work on both “Alma’s Way” and “Donkey Hodie.” AVDF’s mission is to support institutions it views as pillars of American society, and Fred Rogers Productions is one of a few producers of public media receiving continued support. “Alma’s Way” and “Donkey Hodie” focus on helping children as they develop life skills like problem-solving ability, resilience and empathy.

Season two of these Emmy award-nominated shows will premiere later this year on PBS KIDS.