Disney primed for new channel

Disney Channel will test the waters for its upcoming learning-focused channel Disney Junior by launching a programming block under the same name in February.

The daily block, aimed at two- to seven-year-olds, will be made available to Disney Channel’s 99 million US homes as well as replacing some 25 Playhouse Disney channels internationally. It will focus on learning and development and will feature both new and classic Disney characters.

The Mouse said it then aims to launch Disney Junior as a full US cable and satellite channel in 2012, bringing a permanent home to mathematics, language skills and healthy eating-themed programming.

Among the new series on Disney Junior will be Jake and the Never Land Pirates, an animated adventure with Peter Pan characters Captain Hook and Smee; a series of Disney Poetry shorts; and shortform series Mickey Mousekersize and Special Agent Oso: Three Healthy Steps, designed to encourage healthy lifestyles among preschoolers.

Playhouse Disney network programmes Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Handy Manny and Imagination Movers will also form part of Disney Junior.

The block will be available through Disney Channel on basic cable in the US and free-to-air broadcast partners around the world. It will also be available via video-on-demand and a broadband website, DisneyJunior.com.