The Next 'Big Big' Thing

"It's a Big Big World," a program for ages 3 to 7 that launches Monday, has a very different look.

Mitchell Kriegman, creator and executive producer of the PBS series, said it took him about five years to develop "Shadowmation," a technique that combines live-action puppets with computer-

generated images. "It really feels like 3-D and sort of pops," he said.

"It's a Big Big World" adventures take place in a tree in a beautiful rain forest where various animal characters live and learn about science and geography.

Snook, a giant, energetic dancing sloth, often leads the way. "He's a laid-back kind of guy who's playful and protective but filled with wonder," Kriegman said.

The half-hour programs are designed to teach children about specific science concepts such as natural camouflage and habitats, said Tina Grotzer, an educational adviser for the series. But a very important part of each episode, she said, is how the characters ask questions and encourage learning.

-- Judith S. Gillies

IT'S A BIG BIG WORLD

Weekdays

9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. on WETA;

11 a.m. on MPT