Mister Rogers' Neighborhood helps children learn the skills needed for growing up. Mister Rogers helps children acknowledge feelings and learn to control impulses. At the same time, the series encourages the development of healthy curiosity and imagination. In effect, Mister Rogers' Neighborhood helps young viewers learn the skills that are the foundation for learning readiness, which is the first of the National Education Goals. Mister Rogers' Neighborhood is made for children.
Some adults feel the series is slow and simple.
Research clearly shows that's how young children learn best. Mister Rogers' Neighborhood is carefully designed to speak effectively to preschool-aged children. Mister Rogers talks in ways children understand, at a pace they can absorb, and with a consistency that creates a calm, safe place for preschoolers to visit. He leaves time for children to reflect and respond, and he takes time to prepare them for what will come next and to explain what has happened before. The visually-simple sets and puppets, matching the capabilities of young children, allow children to use their own imaginations, and encourage children to create their own playthings and to engage in imaginative play.