Cartoonito is set to become an exciting new entertainment destination for pre-schoolers aged three to six and their parents, and will broadcast daily on Boomerang, available on DStv channel 302. The Cartoonito block will be a clearly signposted place where pre-schoolers and their parents can watch some of the best pre-school content currently available from around the world,

Turner Broadcasting has picked up the new series of Bananas in Pyjamas as one of its flagship début shows. Produced by Southern Star Entertainment/Southern Star Singapore (a division of Endemol Group) in association with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, the well-known series has a much-loved heritage and a quirky feel that will fit aptly with the channel’s vibrant and imaginative brand attributes. Bananas in Pyjamas is one of a number of high-profile deal signings by the broadcaster.

Also forming part of the début line up will be Jelly Jamm, an exciting new 3D animated series, co-produced by Spanish indies Vodka Capital, 737 Shaker and RTVE (Radio Television Española). And the future of Cartoonito is looking bright with the recent announcement that a brand new series of LazyTown is planned. The world-renowned pre-school series which helps young children understand how to lead a healthy, active lifestyle will go into production early next year.

Turner Broadcasting’s consolidated expansion into pre-school signals an exciting new phase for its kids’ channels portfolio, with Cartoonito providing a stepping stone for pre-schoolers to its well-known Boomerang and Cartoon Network brands.

Michael Carrington, chief content officer for Turner Broadcasting says, “We’re incredibly excited to be making such a big splash in the pre-school market, with the launch of Cartoonito in Africa. Whilst controller of CBeebies, I’d always admired Cartoonito from afar, and having the opportunity to extend this wonderful pre school brand was one I couldn’t resist. Building on the success of the UK channel, and with two fantastic launch shows at the helm – Bananas in Pyjamas and Jelly Jamm – Cartoonito is set to delight audiences in Africa as a hub of fun with funny and imaginative entertainment for pre-schoolers and their parents.”

Also making the leap to Cartoonito across Africa will be the actual Cartoonitos, six cute animated character shapes that introduce shows in the continuity breaks, called Lolly, Bubble, Cuba, Spike, Ting and Ringo. As the familiar faces of the channel, the Cartoonitos bring Cartoonito its creative and identifiable personality.