Sam Newbury, initially a producer for Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, went on to work on some of Fred’s projects beyond the television program, including professional development and educational materials. Newbury remembers the Mister Rogers Days of the 1970s when people could walk through the set at WQED and then meet Mister Rogers in person. Newbury’s most poignant memory from those special events is the message that Fred delivered to parents—that the children who appreciate the Neighborhood most are those who have experienced love at home.
Fred held Mister Rogers Days at PBS stations across the United States, but did not continue with them because they were physically and emotionally draining. Fred wanted to devote his attention to one child at time. Thus, he focused on special visitors arranged through the Make-A-Wish Foundation rather than open houses.
Children may become anxious and stressed when they are faced with winning and losing. Thus, Fred Rogers devoted a week of the Neighborhood to "Games." Children need reassurance that they will always be loved, no matter the outcome of the game they are playing.
Fred Rogers helped children to learn that they are lovable and capable of loving. He believed that love is the basis of learning, and this article focuses on the connection between love and learning how to write. He comments on the power of the written word—even if children cannot yet read what you've written to them.
The Fred Rogers Institute Archivist is available for requests and inquiries from students and researchers.
