CHAPTER 1 AMERICA'S FAVORITE NEIGHBOR fred Rogers was the creator and star of Mister Rogers Neighborhood This children's educational show is one of the longest running programs in the history of public television It aired from 1968 to 2001 Rogers wrote the scripts and about 200 songs for the show He also starred as the show's host Rogers show was revolutionary He worked with psychologists and educators to create a program that would support children's emotional intelligence Rogers brought wonder and imagination into his program He used puppets and songs to talk about all kinds of topics Rogers became a trusted expert on children's education He also became a celebrity to fans around the world His TV program taught children about kindness compassion and respect Rogers also encouraged the values of self worth and healthy relationships The man who influenced millions of children spent his own childhood developing these values
Rogers was known for addressing his young audience with respect and patience
CHAPTER 2 FAMILY VALUES Fred McFeely Rogers was born in Latrobe Pennsylvania on March 20 1928 Fred loved his hometown His family was very influential in it Fred's father James was a successful businessman His mother Nancy came from a wealthy family The Rogers lived a comfortable life with more than enough money Fred's parents believed serving others was important They often shared their wealth with members of the Latrobe community Nancy would sometimes purchase shoes eyeglasses and other necessities for children at Fred's school Serving others became important to Fred as well When Fred was 11 years old his parents adopted a baby girl named Elaine But for much of Fred's childhood he didn't have a sibling to keep him company He also often had to stay indoors due to asthma Imagination was important to Fred who described his childhood as lonely He often played on his own with puppets
Fred would later name his show's delivery man Mr McFeely above after his grandfather Fred's grandfather Fred McFeely helped Fred navigate his childhood Fred's loneliness often made him feel sad or bad about himself McFeely taught Fred to feel good about himself These lessons prepared Fred for a future shaping the lives of millions of children
