Maya & Miguel (PBS)

Animated twins MAYA & MIGUEL introduce viewers to their family, friends, culture, and the Spanish language in this PBS series. In addition to language skills, the show teaches kids about cultural diversity in a fun, engaging way.

The mostly English dialogue in is peppered with Spanish words and phrases in a way that's totally natural, teaching kids about language while keeping them thoroughly entertained. In one episode, for example, cousin Tito, who's learning English, is "nervioso" about trying out for the school play, which is adapted from a Mayan folk tale. With Maya's help, Tito gets through his audition, only to discover that during the production, he's crippled by stage fright without Maya on stage with him to lend support. Maya devises ingenious and humorous ways to get on stage to help her cousin, who eventually discovers that he's found the confidence to perform without Maya's help.

This well-written show doesn't forget the parents who are viewing with their kids. Some things may fly over young viewers' heads, but Maya & Miguel is infused with such heart and good humor that even its youngest fans won't ever feel like they're missing anything.