LMC Kids: Original Community-Focused Programming for Young Children
- Mamaroneck Observer
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
By Marina Kiriakou -
If you’re searching for a children’s show that you can genuinely feel good about, tune into LMC Kids. This new initiative by LMC Media is more than just a children's show—it's a heartfelt celebration of our community, designed to educate and entertain while fostering a sense of belonging among young viewers. Leading this creative venture is Dena Schumacher, the passionate producer whose love for both puppetry and our area shines brightly in every episode.
LMC Kids is preparing to unveil its second season. Meanwhile, you can catch Season 1 weekdays at 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Channel 75 Optimum and 36 Verizon. Season 1’s episodes are also available anytime at https://lmcmedia.org/lmckids/. Each 5–6-minute episode features puppet characters, original music and sing-alongs, community segments (such as the post office, libraries, playgrounds, and beaches), and gently served life lessons through relatable stories.
A Vision for the Future
As the driving force behind LMC Kids, Dena began her journey in 2018 with a clear vision: to create a children’s program that reflects the local culture while teaching essential values like kindness, curiosity, and togetherness. Even before she became a mother, her goal was to offer a platform that would not only provide fun but also mirror the unique identity of the area. “I wanted to create a space for kids here,” she explains.
Her inspiration is deeply rooted in childhood memories of watching her brother on "Romper Room." “It was like having a mini celebrity in the family,” she recalls. Dena seeks to give today’s children that same thrill of seeing familiar faces on screen – a sentiment she masterfully translates into engaging content.
To further this vision, Dena invites local kids to join the fun. “For those interested in participating, there is an open call for children in the community to be on the show,” she shares. “Kids love being in front of the camera; it makes them feel like stars.”
The Power of Puppetry
The series prominently features three lovable puppet characters: Lulu, Miguel, and Cassie. Their names form the acronym "LMC," underscoring the show's identity and mission. Skilled puppeteers—many of whom have trained at the prestigious Jim Henson School—bring these characters to life in a way that resonates with kids. By incorporating diverse representations and relatable scenarios, Dena ensures that every child sees themselves reflected in the stories being told.
The Story of Jordan: The Local Super Fan
At just three years old, Jordan Mancino has been affectionately dubbed the "super fan" of LMC Kids. He attends every event featuring the puppets and eagerly shares his love for the show and its characters. Jordan’s father, Rob, mentions that they have made it a point to incorporate LMC Kids into their family outings, such as trips to the farmers market or the library, ensuring they catch every episode and live event. "We enjoy watching the show because Jordan recognizes so many people from our town. When he saw Jeff Ahne (the Village of Mamaroneck General Foreman for Parks) featured in an episode, he was thrilled! The same happened when he spotted the climbable ladybug at Florence Park!”
Community Engagement at Its Core
A standout feature of LMC Kids is its commitment to local involvement. Child actors featured on the show were identified with the help of local theater companies such as Artistree Performing Arts and the Sandbox Theater. Dena actively seeks partnerships with schools, libraries, and businesses to enrich the educational experience. Children from St. John's Nursery School have already made appearances in segments, and live screenings at libraries have attracted enthusiastic crowds, creating opportunities for families to gather, watch episodes, and engage with the puppets.
Key among these collaborations has been with Girl Scouts of Larchmont-Mamaroneck. Young troopers learn to work with puppets and to become comfortable in front of the camera. Their enthusiasm was infections. The Girl Scouts’ participation is often spoken about as being the community’s favorite segment.
Educational Themes with a Fun Twist
Each episode is carefully crafted to weave in educational themes that resonate with both kids and parents. Dena incorporates lessons on practical topics such as safety and friendship while ensuring the content remains entertaining. Catchy songs like "Look Left, Look Right" and "The Adventure Cannot Begin Until We All Strap In" turn ordinary tasks into fun moments.
Dena personally writes the lyrics and produces the music, testing them on her own children, ages 2 and 3, to see what resonates. “They are my target audience. If a song doesn't connect with them, it doesn’t make it on the show!”
Looking Ahead
As LMC Kids prepares for its second season, Dena plans to introduce new educational themes while building on existing ones. Upcoming episodes will address topics such as water safety, local traditions, a day with dad, and neighborhood adventures, ensuring that the content remains engaging and relevant.
Extending the Mission
The excitement surrounding LMC Kids is echoed by Matt Sullivan, Executive Director of LMC Media. “LMC Kids is such an exciting project for us because it truly captures what LMC Media is all about: giving people a voice and helping them tell their stories. This show is a great way to inspire the next generation and bring our community together through storytelling.”
Collaboration Welcome
LMC Kids is more than just a show; it’s a movement to inspire the next generation and create awareness for the community central to our lives. Dena invites parents, caregivers, and local businesses to get involved, whether by sponsoring an episode or participating in live events. This collaborative spirit not only strengthens the show but also deepens connections among residents.
If you’d like to sponsor a segment, dedicate a donation in someone’s honor, or become a Friend of LMC Kids, you will help ensure that kids can continue to enjoy the adventures of Lulu, Miguel, and Cassie. Donations can be made here: https://lmcmedia.org/donate.
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