MUMBAI: In February 2011, kids broadcaster Disney Channel will debut Disney Junior, a new multiplatform brand devoted to children aged 2-7 and their families globally.
Disney Junior will invite parents and grandparents to join their children in the Disney experience of magical, musical and heartfelt stories and characters, both classic and new, while incorporating specific learning and developmental themes.

New series that will air include Jake and the Never Land Pirates, an animated adventure combining new and classic Disney characters Captain Hook and Smee ("Peter Pan"); a series of Disney Poetry Shorts which showcases poems for children set against classic Disney animation.
 
There will also be two short form series, Mickey Mousekersize and Special Agent Oso: Three Healthy Steps, to encourage healthy lifestyles for preschoolers and families. Babar and the Adventures of Badou will be an updated version of Babar. The show will introduce King Babar‘s energetic eight-year-old grandson, Badou, and friends as they explore the world of Celesteville.

Tinga Tinga Tales is an animated adventure inspired by traditional African animal folktales and the art of Tanzania. Playhouse Disney shows like Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Handy Manny will also be part of Disney Junior.

Disney Channels Worldwide president Carolina Lightcap said, "Disney Junior differentiates itself by placing a focus on story and character, the hallmarks of Disney since its inception. We‘ll take memories of the Disney experience, held by generations of parents and kids, and bring them to life on TV and beyond, with elements that encourage early childhood learning, wrapped in strong emotionally connected storytelling.

"We will showcase classic Disney characters in new ways, and we are equally committed to creating new original characters that we hope will become the classics of the future."