Pre-schoolers may not know a lot, but they do know who Play Along Sam is – and they’re learning a great deal about music, dance, play and sound thanks to the educational TV and DVD series…
Ask any pre-schooler who Play Along Sam is and they’ll tell you in a flash. The Aussie kid’s entertainer and former member of popular children’s band The Wiggles, Sam Moran has been a fixture on kid’s television screens with his hit children’s series Nick Jr.’s PlayAlongwithSam. Donning his signature safari suit, Sam showcases his musical talents and playfully encourages pre-schoolers to explore his colourful world through music and movement. The popular show has been nominated for a Logie Award for ‘Most Outstanding Children’s Program’ and an ASTRA Award for ‘Best New Talent’, and now, PlayAlongwithSam is available on DVD & Digital.
We spoke to Sam to find out more about the highly educational and curriculum based series, which has a focus on developmental learning and motivates kids to interact and participate at home.
How did Play Along With Sam come about?
“Two years ago, Nick Jr. and I started collaborating on my own show – Play Along with Sam. It has been really exciting as it has allowed me to continue to do what I love, entertaining children and families that have supported me over the years. The Nick Jr. team have also allowed me a lot of creative freedom to write my own original songs and do what I do best.”
How did you feel about all the awards the show’s received?
“I’m blown away by the positive response of families in Australia and around the world. It continues to be really rewarding and I am thankful to be doing what I love – entertaining pre-schoolers! Nominations and awards are just nice reaffirmations that people think you are ‘doing it right!’”
Who is the series aimed at?
“Pre-schoolers, aged 0 – 5yrs.”
Why do you feel it’s such a hit with children and parents?
“I think the show connects with children in a really interactive, engaging way – it gets kids moving and singing along which is all that I could ever ask from Play Along with Sam. As a parent myself, I understand that when you choose to put your child in front of the television you want to know that they are getting something out of it, more than just entertainment. Nick Jr. is based on a ‘Play Along and Learn’ philosophy which is so central to everything we do on the show, so parents can be assured that their children are also getting the educational benefits of learning to count, share and dance to a beat.”
What makes the show unique?
“The show invites pre-schoolers to explore their world through rhythm, music and movement and so the show is really focused around sound elements. Whether it’s learning how to sound out letters, the sounds of animals or singing a song, it’s fun that gets kids up and dancing around. In every scene and song we film, I ask what is in it for the child at home. It’s easy to get caught up in what we are doing onscreen, but if the child at home is not a part of that action, then they won’t feel a part of the game. So, whether it be capturing a sound in a jar or having one minute dance parties where kids can make up fun dance moves, the audience is always invited to Play Along and join in.”
Do you still have little fans recognise you as Sam the Wiggle or Play Along Sam?
“My pre-school fans recognise me as both. I’ve been surprised how well they have transitioned to seeing me as ‘Sam – the Sound Explorer’ and really identify with my safari suit which I wear throughout the series. However they identify me, they usually see me as a friend that they see every day. But when they see me in person, they are usually so interested in telling me everything about themselves, because that’s the one thing they can’t do at home.”
How are you enjoying career since leaving the Wiggles?
“I am delighted that I get to continue doing what I love and now, bring my own music to a whole new generation of children and families. To have the audience be so supportive of that has been wonderful, and to hear parents say they enjoy my new songs even more is great too!”
What’s next for Play Along With Sam?
“The sky’s the limit! I’ve just finished filming new episodes of Play Along With Sam which features loads more original music. The first season of Play Along With Sam has just been released on DVD and Digital – just in time for the Christmas stocking! Touring is definitely our next plan, so be sure to keep an eye and ear out to see when we will be in your neighbourhood.”
BUY IT
Play Along with Sam DVD, RRP $19.95, is available at all major retailers.
Does your child love Play Along Sam? Tell us below!…
