04/04/2026
Are you looking for a fun and inclusive weekend cartoon idea? As part of Autism Awareness Month, we wanted to share a new cartoon that recently won an Emmy Award for "Outstanding Public Service Initiative."
Carl the Collector is a beautiful, refreshing step forward in children’s media. It’s the first PBS Kids series centered around an autistic main character, and it does so in a way that feels authentic, respectful, and deeply human.
The show follows Carl, an autistic raccoon who loves collecting things, as he navigates friendships, problem-solving, and everyday experiences in a supportive community. What stands out most is that autism is not treated as something to fix—it’s simply part of who Carl is.
Why we love it:
Authentic representation: The show reflects a range of autistic experiences without stereotyping or “othering.”
Neurodiversity-affirming: Differences are understood, respected, and supported by peers
Focus on connection: Themes of empathy, communication, and friendship are woven into every episode
Thoughtful pacing: A calmer, lower-stimulation style that many children benefit from (and honestly, adults too!)
One of our favorite takeaways:
Acceptance isn’t about teaching autistic children to fit into the world—
it’s about helping the world understand and include them.
This is the kind of show that opens doors for conversations, builds empathy, and allows children to see themselves—and others—in a positive, affirming light.
Stay tuned for next week as we continue celebrating Autism Acceptance Month
https://pbskids.org/videos/carl-the-collector
