Playhouse Disney, the new multiplex channel from Family Channel launching November 30, 2007, today announced its programming line-up for fall 2007 and winter 2008 seasons. Committed to offering engaging, educational and development-based programming for younger children, the channel will offer exclusive, first-run programs from Disney together with celebrated Canadian series to create an environment of fun and learning for younger children.

“Family Channel has always been dedicated to bringing the best, most entertaining viewing experience to Canadian families,” said Kevin Wright, Senior Vice President, Programming, Astral Television Networks. “With the introduction of Playhouse Disney, we are now able to focus on younger children and deliver the entertainment experience that younger kids want, coupled with the commitment to safe, development-based programming that parents demand.”

This fall and winter Playhouse Disney will premiere three new series from Disney – Bunnytown, Imagination Movers and Special Agent Oso. These new series will premiere alongside other popular Disney series including Handy Manny, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Johnny and the Sprites, My Friends Tigger & Pooh and Little Einsteins.

“Adhering to a programming mandate of entertainment and education, the Disney preschool programming on Playhouse Disney is created using the ‘The Whole Child Curriculum’ developed by Dr. Howard Gardner, Professor of Cognition and Education at the Harvard Graduate School of Education,” said Wright. “This curriculum is based on the philosophy of multiple intelligences which highlights seven different learning styles for young children – physical, emotional, social, cognitive, metacognitive, creative/artistic, moral/ethical/spiritual. Each of the aforementioned Disney series uses one or more of these learning styles to communicate valuable lessons and learning to children.”

Complementing the Disney programming will be award-winning Canadian series such as Franny’s Feet, Henry’s World, Katie and Orbie, King and a new season of The Secret World of Benjamin Bear.

“Playhouse Disney will not only air the best programming from Disney, but will also showcase the best programming from Canada,” continued Wright. “Playhouse Disney will provide Canadian producers with a new partner in children’s programming and further invigorate the genre by giving these series pride of place on the schedule.”

Rounding out the Playhouse Disney schedule will be such programs as Aladdin, Bear in the Big Blue House, Buzz Lightyear of the Star Command, Higglytown Heroes, JoJo’s Circus and Disney’s Little Mermaid.

Please click here to view Disney Playhouse’s launch schedule.