Ahlan Simsim, the Arabic children’s show by the creators of Iftah Ya Simsim and Sesame Street shows around the world, has returned to screens for a second season for children across the Middle East.
The new season follows Basma, Jad, Ma’zooza, and Hadi as they play, sing, and learn together with their friends Elmo, Kaki, and Gargur. With a new video play date format, Season 2 reflects the way many families are staying connected amid the pandemic and models playful activities to build the socio-emotional skills children need to reach their full potential. Along the way, the Ahlan Simsimfriends learn new techniques for managing big feelings like frustration and sadness and ways to cope with the uncertainty so many children are experiencing.
Each of the 26 new episodes features a comedic story segment to help young viewers identify and express their emotions and learn simple strategies to manage big feelings. Research shows that these ‘emotional ABCs’ lay the foundation for young children’s healthy development and future success. Young viewers learn alongside Basma and Jad as they master concrete strategies like belly breathing and expression through art. Season 2 also includes new ‘Number of the Day’ and ‘Word of the Day’ segments, designed to meet the needs of children at a time when many schools and early childhood programmes are interrupted.
“We know how important it is to establish a foundation to help overcome challenges and build resilience from a young age, and the new season of Ahlan Simsim is designed to give children the skills they need to succeed in school and life – all with a little help from Basma, Jad, and friends,” said Sherrie Westin, President of Social Impact and Philanthropy at Sesame Workshop. “As so many families across the Middle East and beyond are facing uncertainty, Ahlan Simsimis here to help foster playful learning and build the socio-emotional skills needed to get through tough times and thrive into the future.”
“We designed Season 2 to reflect the realities that young children and families are experiencing today, with new virtual play dates and storylines with strategies and activities that families can do together at home,” said Khaled Haddad, Executive Producer of Ahlan Simsim. “Just when we need them more than ever, the Muppets of Ahlan Simsimare back to bring early education, comfort, and joy to children across the region.”
Full episodes and bonus content is also available on the Ahlan SimsimYouTube channel. Visit www.ahlansimsim.org for videos, storybooks, flashcards, worksheets, and more.