Jakers! is a tool for Literacy
Development through Media
as well as an Intergenerational
Learning Model. Of course,
the actual format of the animated plotline - a story being
told in flashback by Grandpa Piggley - always illustrates
important early literacy skills.
101. PIE FILLING
(Honesty, Responsibility)
Episode Summary: Piggley, Ferny, Dannan and Molly just can’t resist eating one of Mrs. Winks’s fresh-baked pies…even though she told them it was off limits. The friends decide to pool their creativity to bake a new pie before Mrs. Winks finds out. After much hard work - and a run-in with a feisty goat who refuses to share the apples in his orchard - the kids realize that a simple apology might have been easier and wiser in the long-run.
Lesson: Admitting your mistake from the beginning is usually the best thing.
Episode Summary: Piggley, Ferny, Dannan and Molly just can’t resist eating one of Mrs. Winks’s fresh-baked pies…even though she told them it was off limits. The friends decide to pool their creativity to bake a new pie before Mrs. Winks finds out. After much hard work - and a run-in with a feisty goat who refuses to share the apples in his orchard - the kids realize that a simple apology might have been easier and wiser in the long-run.
Lesson: Admitting your mistake from the beginning is usually the best thing.
102. THE SALMON OF KNOWLEDGE
(Self-esteem, Peer relationships)
Episode Summary: Piggley has a big test coming up in school and hates the thought of giving up an entire weekend to study. He decides instead to catch the legendary “Salmon of Knowledge,” an all-knowing fish that can help him ace the exam. While Piggley puts his faith in a questionably magical fish, Ferny and Dannan study. Ferny and Dannan are the ones who ace the test - and Piggley learns an important lesson.
Lesson: There’s no substitute for good old-fashioned hard work.
Episode Summary: Piggley has a big test coming up in school and hates the thought of giving up an entire weekend to study. He decides instead to catch the legendary “Salmon of Knowledge,” an all-knowing fish that can help him ace the exam. While Piggley puts his faith in a questionably magical fish, Ferny and Dannan study. Ferny and Dannan are the ones who ace the test - and Piggley learns an important lesson.
Lesson: There’s no substitute for good old-fashioned hard work.
103. FERNY IS A BUG
(Peer Relationships)
Episode Summary: Piggley’s father tells him an old Irish tale about fairies disguising themselves as bugs and playing tricks on anyone who harms them. Soon Piggley and Dannan are convinced that fairies have turned Ferny into a flying beetle after he inadvertently smacks a bug on his arm. While Piggley investigates and experiments with ways to keep Ferny safe, Dannan hits the books to try and find a cure - and Ferny learns how much his friends care about him.
Lesson: Good friends should always be treasured.
Episode Summary: Piggley’s father tells him an old Irish tale about fairies disguising themselves as bugs and playing tricks on anyone who harms them. Soon Piggley and Dannan are convinced that fairies have turned Ferny into a flying beetle after he inadvertently smacks a bug on his arm. While Piggley investigates and experiments with ways to keep Ferny safe, Dannan hits the books to try and find a cure - and Ferny learns how much his friends care about him.
Lesson: Good friends should always be treasured.
104. THE CASE OF BIG STY
(Peer Relationships, Cooperation)
Episode Summary: Piggley’s favorite radio program, “Piggley Trotter, Private Eye,” inspires Piggley, Ferny and Dannan to spend many imaginative and adventurous afternoons playing detective. One particular afternoon, they work together to solve an unusual mystery: the case of “what a teacher does on his day off.”
Lesson: Co-operation and working together to solve a problem can be fun.
Episode Summary: Piggley’s favorite radio program, “Piggley Trotter, Private Eye,” inspires Piggley, Ferny and Dannan to spend many imaginative and adventurous afternoons playing detective. One particular afternoon, they work together to solve an unusual mystery: the case of “what a teacher does on his day off.”
Lesson: Co-operation and working together to solve a problem can be fun.
105. ALL NIGHT LONG
(Peer relationships, Intergenerational Relationships)
Episode Summary: Mr. Winks is going fishing and Piggley and his friends really want to go along. Dad doesn't think they're ready for the trip, so the three friends set out to prove that they're not only ready, they're also willing and able! They work hard to earn the privilege by doing chores around the farm, then they pull out all the stops and use their imagination to show Dad what excellent fishermen they will be. At last, off they all go for some early-morning fishing.
Lesson: Determination and persistence will often help you achieve your goal.
Episode Summary: Mr. Winks is going fishing and Piggley and his friends really want to go along. Dad doesn't think they're ready for the trip, so the three friends set out to prove that they're not only ready, they're also willing and able! They work hard to earn the privilege by doing chores around the farm, then they pull out all the stops and use their imagination to show Dad what excellent fishermen they will be. At last, off they all go for some early-morning fishing.
Lesson: Determination and persistence will often help you achieve your goal.
106. PICTURE PERFECT
(Peer relationships, Self-Esteem)
Episode Summary: Piggley accidentally embarrasses his good friend Ferny by taking a photo of him with his pants ripped and his undies showing! After promising not to show it to anyone, the photo gets away from Piggley and is seen by everyone at school. He tries to apologize but finds that, for the first time, his best friend Ferny isn’t willing to accept his apology. Piggley must use his ingenuity and creativity to regain Ferny’s trust and friendship - and Ferny must find a way to forgive.
Lesson: Friends make mistakes and sometimes we have to forgive them.
Episode Summary: Piggley accidentally embarrasses his good friend Ferny by taking a photo of him with his pants ripped and his undies showing! After promising not to show it to anyone, the photo gets away from Piggley and is seen by everyone at school. He tries to apologize but finds that, for the first time, his best friend Ferny isn’t willing to accept his apology. Piggley must use his ingenuity and creativity to regain Ferny’s trust and friendship - and Ferny must find a way to forgive.
Lesson: Friends make mistakes and sometimes we have to forgive them.
107. TEACHER CREATURE
(Self-Esteem, Diversity)
Episode Summary: Young Piggley’s insecurity rises when he discovers that his teacher, Mr. Hornsby, is coming to his house for supper. Piggley is certain he's going to “grade” the Winks family and that they’ll come up woefully inadequate! So Piggley and pals hatch a plan to make sure the Winks family gets passing marks. Much to Piggley’s surprise, he discovers that Mr. Hornsby is just a regular person - and not so intimidating after all.
Lesson: Before you make up your mind about someone, make sure you’ve taken the time to get to know them.
Episode Summary: Young Piggley’s insecurity rises when he discovers that his teacher, Mr. Hornsby, is coming to his house for supper. Piggley is certain he's going to “grade” the Winks family and that they’ll come up woefully inadequate! So Piggley and pals hatch a plan to make sure the Winks family gets passing marks. Much to Piggley’s surprise, he discovers that Mr. Hornsby is just a regular person - and not so intimidating after all.
Lesson: Before you make up your mind about someone, make sure you’ve taken the time to get to know them.
108. MOLLY’S DOLLY
(Peer relationships, Imagination)
Episode Summary: A series of odd circumstances convinces Piggley that Molly’s new doll is actually a real leprechaun in disguise! Piggley and his friends set out to prove his theory and try to catch the leprechaun at his own game. They soon learn, however, that it’s a good idea to get ALL the facts before jumping to conclusions.
Lesson: Be sure to get all the facts before jumping to conclusions.
Episode Summary: A series of odd circumstances convinces Piggley that Molly’s new doll is actually a real leprechaun in disguise! Piggley and his friends set out to prove his theory and try to catch the leprechaun at his own game. They soon learn, however, that it’s a good idea to get ALL the facts before jumping to conclusions.
Lesson: Be sure to get all the facts before jumping to conclusions.
109. SONG OF THE BANSHEE
(Peer relationships, Friendship, Trust)
Episode Summary: When Piggley, Ferny and Dannan hear strange noises in the barn, Piggley decides it’s the “song of the banshee”—which frightens Dannan more than she wants to admit! When she finally confesses her fear to her friends, they search for the source of the noise…and discover it's only Wiley the sheep trying to lead his uncooperative flock in song.
Lesson: Talking about your fears or problems with your friends can make one feel better.
Episode Summary: When Piggley, Ferny and Dannan hear strange noises in the barn, Piggley decides it’s the “song of the banshee”—which frightens Dannan more than she wants to admit! When she finally confesses her fear to her friends, they search for the source of the noise…and discover it's only Wiley the sheep trying to lead his uncooperative flock in song.
Lesson: Talking about your fears or problems with your friends can make one feel better.
110. OUR DRAGON’S EGG
(Science, Diversity)
Episode Summary: Piggley, Ferny and Dannan rescue an errant egg - which they decide must be a dragon’s egg. They hatch all kinds of plans to keep the egg safe, but when the creature inside emerges, it turns out to be a not-so-sweet wild swan chick. That’s when the real work begins.
Lesson: Even though we may want to have a pet, sometimes the best place for that pet is in its natural environment.
Episode Summary: Piggley, Ferny and Dannan rescue an errant egg - which they decide must be a dragon’s egg. They hatch all kinds of plans to keep the egg safe, but when the creature inside emerges, it turns out to be a not-so-sweet wild swan chick. That’s when the real work begins.
Lesson: Even though we may want to have a pet, sometimes the best place for that pet is in its natural environment.
111. THE CAT CAME BACK… AND BACK
(Kindness/Responsibility)
Episode Summary: Sweet Shop owner Miss Nanny offers a reward for the return of her lost cat and Piggley and friends leap at the opportunity. Of course, catching a cat with a mind of her own is not such an easy task, but seeing Miss Nanny’s happy face is a great reward.
Lesson: A good deed and kindness are their own rewards.
Episode Summary: Sweet Shop owner Miss Nanny offers a reward for the return of her lost cat and Piggley and friends leap at the opportunity. Of course, catching a cat with a mind of her own is not such an easy task, but seeing Miss Nanny’s happy face is a great reward.
Lesson: A good deed and kindness are their own rewards.
112. GOOD NEIGHBOR
(Peer Relationships, Diversity)
Episode Summary: Piggley and his friends (inspired by a spooky radio program) are convinced that the young boy whose family just moved into the small house up the lane from the Winks’ farm is actually a mad scientist! But through open-minded, adventurous thought and action, they are finally able to put aside their fears and risk making friends with the young boy.
Lesson: Don’t judge someone before you really get to know them.
Episode Summary: Piggley and his friends (inspired by a spooky radio program) are convinced that the young boy whose family just moved into the small house up the lane from the Winks’ farm is actually a mad scientist! But through open-minded, adventurous thought and action, they are finally able to put aside their fears and risk making friends with the young boy.
Lesson: Don’t judge someone before you really get to know them.
113. ROCK AROUND THE CLUCK
(Music/ Art, Self-Esteem)
Episode Summary: Young Piggley discovers the joy of the new sounds of rock ‘n roll, and finds that he is suddenly eager to go to school—on Saturdays!—for his guitar lessons. When Piggley falters during his first public performance, Ferny and Dannan offer loving support and shared enthusiasm to help him regain his confidence.
Lesson: When it comes to making music, the joy of accomplishment makes all the practice and hard work worth it.
Episode Summary: Young Piggley discovers the joy of the new sounds of rock ‘n roll, and finds that he is suddenly eager to go to school—on Saturdays!—for his guitar lessons. When Piggley falters during his first public performance, Ferny and Dannan offer loving support and shared enthusiasm to help him regain his confidence.
Lesson: When it comes to making music, the joy of accomplishment makes all the practice and hard work worth it.
114. DONKEYS INTO RACEHORSES
(Diversity)
Episode Summary: When Mr. Hornsby asks the class to think about the meaning of the old expression “you can’t make a racehorse out of a donkey”, Piggley takes it as a challenge! He sets out to change his donkey Finnegan into a racehorse. In the end, he learns that all living creatures have their own special talents - even donkeys.
Lesson: Everyone has his or her own unique talents and strengths.
Episode Summary: When Mr. Hornsby asks the class to think about the meaning of the old expression “you can’t make a racehorse out of a donkey”, Piggley takes it as a challenge! He sets out to change his donkey Finnegan into a racehorse. In the end, he learns that all living creatures have their own special talents - even donkeys.
Lesson: Everyone has his or her own unique talents and strengths.
115. FIR NOT
(Honesty, Slef-Esteem)
Episode Summary: Piggley and his pals try to track down and trap a Fir Darrig, a particularly mischievous leprechaun. In the process, the kids accidentally break a window and decide to blame it on the Fir Darrig. Soon it begins to appear that the Fir Darrig is taking his revenge on them for giving him the blame - or is it just their guilty consciences?
Lesson: It’s always better to tell the truth.
Episode Summary: Piggley and his pals try to track down and trap a Fir Darrig, a particularly mischievous leprechaun. In the process, the kids accidentally break a window and decide to blame it on the Fir Darrig. Soon it begins to appear that the Fir Darrig is taking his revenge on them for giving him the blame - or is it just their guilty consciences?
Lesson: It’s always better to tell the truth.
116. THE LEGEND OF RALOO
(Diversity, Peer Relationships)
Episode Summary: Mr Hornsby’s tale of ancient Irish battles inspires the kids to act out their own crusade. The game that ensues brings to light the differences in the trio’s heritage. Unfortunately, this puts Ferny on the opposing side because of his Spanish roots. Ferny finds it upsetting to be the enemy and begins to doubt whether Ireland is his true home. In the end, while Ferny learns that you can make anywhere in the world your home, Piggley and Dannan discover that introductions to new cultures can be an enriching experience.
Lesson: There are many cultures around the world – each with its own unique and wonderful stories and legends to tell.
Episode Summary: Mr Hornsby’s tale of ancient Irish battles inspires the kids to act out their own crusade. The game that ensues brings to light the differences in the trio’s heritage. Unfortunately, this puts Ferny on the opposing side because of his Spanish roots. Ferny finds it upsetting to be the enemy and begins to doubt whether Ireland is his true home. In the end, while Ferny learns that you can make anywhere in the world your home, Piggley and Dannan discover that introductions to new cultures can be an enriching experience.
Lesson: There are many cultures around the world – each with its own unique and wonderful stories and legends to tell.
117. SHEEP ON THE LOOSE
(Self-Esteem, Family)
Episode Summary: When Piggley is put in charge of the sheep, his overly enthusiastic approach makes the sheep disgruntled—and causes Wiley to run away. Piggley must then use his ingenuity and understanding to bring his sheep home. Through the process, he learns much about how to do a job well and gains new respect from his father.
Lesson: Learning something new is never easy and it’s okay to make mistakes. That’s the way you learn.
Episode Summary: When Piggley is put in charge of the sheep, his overly enthusiastic approach makes the sheep disgruntled—and causes Wiley to run away. Piggley must then use his ingenuity and understanding to bring his sheep home. Through the process, he learns much about how to do a job well and gains new respect from his father.
Lesson: Learning something new is never easy and it’s okay to make mistakes. That’s the way you learn.
118. MILK MELODRAMA
(Self-Esteem, Relationships, Imagination)
Episode Summary: When Piggley overhears his dad is worried about the farm’s poor milk sales, he launches a creative campaign to improve business. Dad is impressed and touched by Piggley’s generosity of spirit. Piggley learns what a wonderful experience it is to help others when there is nothing in it for yourself.
Lesson: It feels good to help others with no thought of a reward for yourself.
Episode Summary: When Piggley overhears his dad is worried about the farm’s poor milk sales, he launches a creative campaign to improve business. Dad is impressed and touched by Piggley’s generosity of spirit. Piggley learns what a wonderful experience it is to help others when there is nothing in it for yourself.
Lesson: It feels good to help others with no thought of a reward for yourself.
119. NO GIRLS ALLOWED
(Peer Relationships, Diversity)
Episode Summary: When Piggley and Ferny join a “boys only” storytelling club, Dannan is upset that she is excluded because she is ‘different’, but her friends soon realise that life is much more fun when she’s around.
Lesson: Leaving someone out of your game just because they are different to you is unfair.
Episode Summary: When Piggley and Ferny join a “boys only” storytelling club, Dannan is upset that she is excluded because she is ‘different’, but her friends soon realise that life is much more fun when she’s around.
Lesson: Leaving someone out of your game just because they are different to you is unfair.
120. NEW BEST FRIENDS
(Peer Relationships, Diversity)
Episode Summary: Piggley and his best friends Ferny and Dannan are challenged to open their minds and hearts to new friends when Mr. Hornsby requires them to do a team project with classmates they don’t know very well. They end up seeing things in a different light when they take time to look under the surface.
Lesson: It’s a good idea to keep an open mind about new friends and experiences.
Episode Summary: Piggley and his best friends Ferny and Dannan are challenged to open their minds and hearts to new friends when Mr. Hornsby requires them to do a team project with classmates they don’t know very well. They end up seeing things in a different light when they take time to look under the surface.
Lesson: It’s a good idea to keep an open mind about new friends and experiences.
121. TREASURE HUNT
(Imagination, Responsibility)
Episode Summary: Mr. Winks plants a treasure map for Piggley and his friends, but this is a map with a difference! The trio set about the tasks on the treasure trail and are having so much fun they don’t realize they’re doing their chores at the same time. But the real “treasure” is learning that when work is done with the right attitude, it can even be fun!
Lesson: When work is approached with the right attitude, it can be fun!
Episode Summary: Mr. Winks plants a treasure map for Piggley and his friends, but this is a map with a difference! The trio set about the tasks on the treasure trail and are having so much fun they don’t realize they’re doing their chores at the same time. But the real “treasure” is learning that when work is done with the right attitude, it can even be fun!
Lesson: When work is approached with the right attitude, it can be fun!
122. FOR WHOM THE BELL TROLLS
(Peer Relationships, Diversity)
Episode Summary: Hector plays a joke on Piggley, Dannan and Ferny, but they don’t think it’s so funny. With a little gentle encouragement from Don Toro, Piggley and his pals look at their problem with Hector from a new perspective. They use their ingenuity to show him that “jokes” aren’t always so funny when the joke is on you!
Lesson: Practical jokes can be fun – but sometimes they’re not. Putting yourself in someone else’s shoes may help you tell the difference.
Episode Summary: Hector plays a joke on Piggley, Dannan and Ferny, but they don’t think it’s so funny. With a little gentle encouragement from Don Toro, Piggley and his pals look at their problem with Hector from a new perspective. They use their ingenuity to show him that “jokes” aren’t always so funny when the joke is on you!
Lesson: Practical jokes can be fun – but sometimes they’re not. Putting yourself in someone else’s shoes may help you tell the difference.
123. A LITTLE BIT OF SOMETHING EXTRA! EXTRA!
(Literacy, Honesty, Peer Relationships)
Episode Summary: The kids set out to write newspaper stories and Piggley and Ferny end up making up exciting adventure stories instead. But Dannan knows that news stories are about the truth and that the truth can be powerful – it can actually change the way you think about something or someone.
Lesson: Dig a little deeper to find out all you can about someone before you judge them.
Episode Summary: The kids set out to write newspaper stories and Piggley and Ferny end up making up exciting adventure stories instead. But Dannan knows that news stories are about the truth and that the truth can be powerful – it can actually change the way you think about something or someone.
Lesson: Dig a little deeper to find out all you can about someone before you judge them.
124. FERNY GETS A CRUSH
(Peer relationships, Self-Esteem)
Episode Summary: Piggley and Dannan think they know best how to help a love-struck Ferny get the attention of his schoolmate, Millie. While he appreciates that his friends are trying to help, in the end Ferny learns that he's really much better off trusting his own feelings and instincts.
Lesson: Be yourself and trust that your friends like you just the way you are.
Episode Summary: Piggley and Dannan think they know best how to help a love-struck Ferny get the attention of his schoolmate, Millie. While he appreciates that his friends are trying to help, in the end Ferny learns that he's really much better off trusting his own feelings and instincts.
Lesson: Be yourself and trust that your friends like you just the way you are.
125. MY RIGHT ARM
(Perseverance, Peer Relationships)
Episode Summary: Piggley tries to make the most of a bad situation by training his left arm to throw when his right arm is broken and put in a cast, but it’s the help of his friends that enables him to overcome his temporary handicap and win the Ball Toss Contest at the annual School Fair.
Lesson: Helping a friend through a difficult time is a true sign of friendship.
Episode Summary: Piggley tries to make the most of a bad situation by training his left arm to throw when his right arm is broken and put in a cast, but it’s the help of his friends that enables him to overcome his temporary handicap and win the Ball Toss Contest at the annual School Fair.
Lesson: Helping a friend through a difficult time is a true sign of friendship.
126. LUCKY U
(Problem-Solving, Peer Relationships)
Episode Summary: Using creativity and cleverness, Piggley, Dannan and Ferny work together towards the common goal of finding and testing three lucky horseshoe legends in order to find the “true” story behind the horseshoe Mr. Hornsby has hung on the schoolhouse door.
Lesson: Cooperating is a great way to accomplish a difficult goal.
Episode Summary: Using creativity and cleverness, Piggley, Dannan and Ferny work together towards the common goal of finding and testing three lucky horseshoe legends in order to find the “true” story behind the horseshoe Mr. Hornsby has hung on the schoolhouse door.
Lesson: Cooperating is a great way to accomplish a difficult goal.
127. FERNY WEARS THE STAR
(Diversity, Peer Relationships)
Episode Summary: Ferny gets the chance to be the leader in a game of cowboys, and Piggley is put in the unusual position of being a follower. But Ferny doesn’t play cowboys Piggley’s way and Piggley soon loses interest and goes home. Mr. Winks convinces Piggley to try Ferny’s way and Piggley ends up having fun - and gaining new respect for his friend.
Lesson: Listen to others. Your way isn’t necessarily the only/right way.
Episode Summary: Ferny gets the chance to be the leader in a game of cowboys, and Piggley is put in the unusual position of being a follower. But Ferny doesn’t play cowboys Piggley’s way and Piggley soon loses interest and goes home. Mr. Winks convinces Piggley to try Ferny’s way and Piggley ends up having fun - and gaining new respect for his friend.
Lesson: Listen to others. Your way isn’t necessarily the only/right way.
128. MOLLY HAD A LITTLE LAMB
(Self-Esteem, Responsibility)
Episode Summary: Molly is about to start school and feels very grown up. To prove it, she persuades her parents to let her take care of an adorable lamb. When Molly can’t say “no” to the little darling, however, he becomes a troublemaker causing chaos on the farm, in the house, and even at school. Molly soon realizes that even little lambs need rules!
Lesson: Having rules and setting limits make life better for everyone.
Episode Summary: Molly is about to start school and feels very grown up. To prove it, she persuades her parents to let her take care of an adorable lamb. When Molly can’t say “no” to the little darling, however, he becomes a troublemaker causing chaos on the farm, in the house, and even at school. Molly soon realizes that even little lambs need rules!
Lesson: Having rules and setting limits make life better for everyone.
129. TRIAL AND ERROR
(Honesty, Responsibility, Peer Relationships)
Episode Summary: When Dannan’s school bag is chewed to pieces, Finnegan the donkey is the likely suspect. The kids hold a “trial” in the barn, where witnesses tell different versions of the crime. When it is revealed that Finnegan was not to blame, everyone learns an important lesson about the dangers of making accusations without knowing all the facts.
Lesson: Don’t make accusations without knowing all the facts.
Episode Summary: When Dannan’s school bag is chewed to pieces, Finnegan the donkey is the likely suspect. The kids hold a “trial” in the barn, where witnesses tell different versions of the crime. When it is revealed that Finnegan was not to blame, everyone learns an important lesson about the dangers of making accusations without knowing all the facts.
Lesson: Don’t make accusations without knowing all the facts.
130. RAIN, RAIN GO AWAY
(Diversity, Family, Imagination)
Episode Summary: When Mr. and Mrs. Winks have to go out in the rain to repair a fence, Piggley must keep Molly inside and entertained. He quickly realizes that what is fun for him isn’t necessarily fun for Molly. Piggley uses his ingenuity to come up with some great games they both can play and enjoy - and discovers how much fun it is to be a truly helpful older brother!
Lesson: People of all ages can find a common ground if they look for it.
Episode Summary: When Mr. and Mrs. Winks have to go out in the rain to repair a fence, Piggley must keep Molly inside and entertained. He quickly realizes that what is fun for him isn’t necessarily fun for Molly. Piggley uses his ingenuity to come up with some great games they both can play and enjoy - and discovers how much fun it is to be a truly helpful older brother!
Lesson: People of all ages can find a common ground if they look for it.
131. A TOUCH OF SPAIN
(Diversity, Friendship)
Episode Summary: A series of misunderstandings lead the villagers of Tara to believe that Don Toro and Ferny are moving back to Spain. So the town throws Don Toro a special birthday fiesta complete with Spanish music, dancing, food and even fireworks. Then they discover that Don Toro had only been planning a weekend trip to Dublin!
Lesson: When you are unsure about something don’t guess the truth - go to the source.
Episode Summary: A series of misunderstandings lead the villagers of Tara to believe that Don Toro and Ferny are moving back to Spain. So the town throws Don Toro a special birthday fiesta complete with Spanish music, dancing, food and even fireworks. Then they discover that Don Toro had only been planning a weekend trip to Dublin!
Lesson: When you are unsure about something don’t guess the truth - go to the source.
132. DANNAN’S AMERICAN COUSIN
(Diversity, Peer Relationships)
Episode Summary: Dannan is excited when her cousin, Gaddie, comes to visit from the United States. She gets jealous, however, when it appears that Ferny and Piggley like Gaddie better than they like her. When Dannan’s jealousy gets the best of her and she ruins a fun afternoon, she learns that the best way to deal with bad feelings is to talk about them.
Lesson: Don’t keep feelings bottled up inside—share them with people you trust.
Episode Summary: Dannan is excited when her cousin, Gaddie, comes to visit from the United States. She gets jealous, however, when it appears that Ferny and Piggley like Gaddie better than they like her. When Dannan’s jealousy gets the best of her and she ruins a fun afternoon, she learns that the best way to deal with bad feelings is to talk about them.
Lesson: Don’t keep feelings bottled up inside—share them with people you trust.
133. WAKING THOR
(Peer Relationships, Grief, Friendship)
Episode Summary: Ferny is distraught when his pet fish, Thor, dies. Piggley and Dannan try to help Ferny by distracting him with games and play, but Ferny doesn’t seem to be getting “better”. The townsfolk pitch in and hold a wake for Thor to help Ferny talk about and share his feelings and to celebrate the happiness Thor brought him.
Lesson: Dealing with loss and acquiring the grace to accept the things we cannot change gives us the power to celebrate life.
Episode note: 2005 Humanitas Award Winner, children’s category
Episode Summary: Ferny is distraught when his pet fish, Thor, dies. Piggley and Dannan try to help Ferny by distracting him with games and play, but Ferny doesn’t seem to be getting “better”. The townsfolk pitch in and hold a wake for Thor to help Ferny talk about and share his feelings and to celebrate the happiness Thor brought him.
Lesson: Dealing with loss and acquiring the grace to accept the things we cannot change gives us the power to celebrate life.
Episode note: 2005 Humanitas Award Winner, children’s category
134. FATHER’S DAY
(Imagination, Responsibility, Family)
Episode Summary: Piggley needs to help his father with some chores around the farm. But when Piggley takes a more creative than practical approach in painting the milk cart and builds a castle of hay for the new chicks, his father thinks Piggley is playing instead of working. In the end, Piggley’s overworked father sees the joy Piggley is getting from his work and rediscovers his own sense of play.
Lesson: When work is approached with the right attitude, it can be fun!
Episode Summary: Piggley needs to help his father with some chores around the farm. But when Piggley takes a more creative than practical approach in painting the milk cart and builds a castle of hay for the new chicks, his father thinks Piggley is playing instead of working. In the end, Piggley’s overworked father sees the joy Piggley is getting from his work and rediscovers his own sense of play.
Lesson: When work is approached with the right attitude, it can be fun!
135. GROWING PAINS
(Responsibility, Family)
Episode Summary: After griping about his parents’ rules, Piggley wishes he were a grownup, so he could do as he pleases. When Dad sprains his ankle and puts Piggley in charge of the farm for a day, however, Piggley finds being a grownup is a lot harder than it looks.
Lesson: Don’t be in such a hurry to grow up—everything happens in its own time.
Episode Summary: After griping about his parents’ rules, Piggley wishes he were a grownup, so he could do as he pleases. When Dad sprains his ankle and puts Piggley in charge of the farm for a day, however, Piggley finds being a grownup is a lot harder than it looks.
Lesson: Don’t be in such a hurry to grow up—everything happens in its own time.
136. DANNAN DOES A JIG
(Self-Esteem, Peer Relationships)
Episode Summary: When Dannan’s grandma teaches the class to dance, Dannan proves an enthusiastic student of the art. When Dannan realizes that she isn’t a very good dancer, however, she becomes afraid that she will let her friends down and doesn’t want to dance anymore.
Lesson: The most important thing is to do the best you can - and to enjoy yourself!
Episode Summary: When Dannan’s grandma teaches the class to dance, Dannan proves an enthusiastic student of the art. When Dannan realizes that she isn’t a very good dancer, however, she becomes afraid that she will let her friends down and doesn’t want to dance anymore.
Lesson: The most important thing is to do the best you can - and to enjoy yourself!
137. SEARCHING FOR A SHAMROCK
(Problem-solving, Peer Relationships)
Episode Summary: Piggley and friends borrow a special wooden shamrock from Mr. Hornsby - then misplace it. Following advice from Don Toro, they retrace their steps to find it, starting from the last place they saw it. Working together and helping each other they eventually find what they were looking for.
Lesson: Cooperation and working together to solve a problem can be fun.
Episode Summary: Piggley and friends borrow a special wooden shamrock from Mr. Hornsby - then misplace it. Following advice from Don Toro, they retrace their steps to find it, starting from the last place they saw it. Working together and helping each other they eventually find what they were looking for.
Lesson: Cooperation and working together to solve a problem can be fun.
138. WISH UPON A STORY - PART 1
(Literacy, Intergenerational Learning)
Episode Summary: Grandpa is feeling a little blue on his birthday, so his young grandpigs decide to try to cheer him up by telling the great storyteller a few stories of their own describing how life would be if they were in Tara.
Lesson: There are many ways to tell a story, it’s important to use your own particular skills.
Episode Summary: Grandpa is feeling a little blue on his birthday, so his young grandpigs decide to try to cheer him up by telling the great storyteller a few stories of their own describing how life would be if they were in Tara.
Lesson: There are many ways to tell a story, it’s important to use your own particular skills.
139. WISH UPON A STORY - PART 2
(Literacy, Intergenerational Learning)
Episode Summary: Uncle Ferny arrives from Ireland with a special birthday gift for Grandpa Piggley: the original Raloo Rocket. As the old friends and grandchildren repair the beloved wagon, they recall its origins through song, written word and fanciful storytelling.
Lesson: There are many ways to tell a story. Good friendships, and good stories, last forever.
Episode Summary: Uncle Ferny arrives from Ireland with a special birthday gift for Grandpa Piggley: the original Raloo Rocket. As the old friends and grandchildren repair the beloved wagon, they recall its origins through song, written word and fanciful storytelling.
Lesson: There are many ways to tell a story. Good friendships, and good stories, last forever.
140. THE CREEPY CABBAGES OF GALWAY
(Imagination, Honesty, family)
Episode Summary: After being told he’s too young to listen to his parents’ science fiction radio show, Piggley eavesdrops anyway. When his impressionable imagination puts him in a strange dream filled with cabbages and cabbage creatures, he learns there are reasons for rules.
Lesson: Rules are there for a reason.
Episode Summary: After being told he’s too young to listen to his parents’ science fiction radio show, Piggley eavesdrops anyway. When his impressionable imagination puts him in a strange dream filled with cabbages and cabbage creatures, he learns there are reasons for rules.
Lesson: Rules are there for a reason.
201. THE HAUNTED SHIPWRECK
(Friendship, Imagination)
Episode Summary: When Piggley and friends come upon an old shipwreck which bears the legend of being haunted, they take it upon themselves to free the ghost of Captain White. In doing so, they create a memory - and an adventure story - to last a lifetime.
Lesson: It's fun to use your creative imagination to turn an ordinary event into a fun adventure!
Episode Summary: When Piggley and friends come upon an old shipwreck which bears the legend of being haunted, they take it upon themselves to free the ghost of Captain White. In doing so, they create a memory - and an adventure story - to last a lifetime.
Lesson: It's fun to use your creative imagination to turn an ordinary event into a fun adventure!
202. THE MONKEY
(Problem-Solving, Imagination)
Episode Summary: When a monkey escapes from a traveling circus, Piggley and friends believe they've found an elusive "Irish gorilla". They set out to trap him, and in the process create an adventure of a lifetime.
Lesson: Grandpa Piggley shares a story with his grandsons to show that sometimes the best - and most impossible sounding stories are based on the absolute truth!
Episode Summary: When a monkey escapes from a traveling circus, Piggley and friends believe they've found an elusive "Irish gorilla". They set out to trap him, and in the process create an adventure of a lifetime.
Lesson: Grandpa Piggley shares a story with his grandsons to show that sometimes the best - and most impossible sounding stories are based on the absolute truth!
203. JUDGING A BOOK BY ITS COVER
(Literacy, Imagination)
Episode Summary: When Meg is going to watch a DVD rather than read the book it's based on, Grandpa recalls the first time he ever got a book without pictures. As young Piggley reads the story, he imagines himself as the book's hero, Finn McCoul.
Lesson: Books are a key to your imagination.
Episode Summary: When Meg is going to watch a DVD rather than read the book it's based on, Grandpa recalls the first time he ever got a book without pictures. As young Piggley reads the story, he imagines himself as the book's hero, Finn McCoul.
Lesson: Books are a key to your imagination.
204. RETURN OF THE RALOO ROCKERS
(Music/ Art, Responsibility)
Episode Summary: The Raloo Rockers want to go to Dublin to audition for Uncle Buck's Variety Express. But first they'll have to work hard - earning money for the trip and practicing hard so they'll be ready to perform.
Lesson: Rewards that are earned mean more than rewards that are given.
Episode Summary: The Raloo Rockers want to go to Dublin to audition for Uncle Buck's Variety Express. But first they'll have to work hard - earning money for the trip and practicing hard so they'll be ready to perform.
Lesson: Rewards that are earned mean more than rewards that are given.
205. HOW MUCH IS THAT DRAGON IN THE WINDOW
(Responsibility, Imagination)
Episode Summary: Captain Cumara is going to give Ferny a pet. But what kind? As Ferny, Piggley and Dannan wait for the captain to arrive, they imagine the impossible exotic animals that could be Ferny's new pet.
Lesson: Getting the facts is a good idea - but a little fun with your imagination first doesn't hurt!
Episode Summary: Captain Cumara is going to give Ferny a pet. But what kind? As Ferny, Piggley and Dannan wait for the captain to arrive, they imagine the impossible exotic animals that could be Ferny's new pet.
Lesson: Getting the facts is a good idea - but a little fun with your imagination first doesn't hurt!
206. MI GALEON
(Self-Esteem, Intergenerational Relationships)
Episode Summary: Grandpa Piggley recounts the story of the time he, Dannan and Ferny all built miniature ships and entered the Raloo River Race. Unfortunately, Don Toro lets his enthusiasm get the better of him and he does most of the work building Ferny's entry. The ship is fantastic, but Ferny feels like he didn't contribute enough. In the end, Ferny overcomes his fear of hurting his papa's feelings, and by speaking up asserts his right to build his own boat.
Lesson: Express your feelings before they build up and explode!
Episode Summary: Grandpa Piggley recounts the story of the time he, Dannan and Ferny all built miniature ships and entered the Raloo River Race. Unfortunately, Don Toro lets his enthusiasm get the better of him and he does most of the work building Ferny's entry. The ship is fantastic, but Ferny feels like he didn't contribute enough. In the end, Ferny overcomes his fear of hurting his papa's feelings, and by speaking up asserts his right to build his own boat.
Lesson: Express your feelings before they build up and explode!
207. THE GIFT
(Family)
Episode Summary: Piggley wants a new snow sled for his birthday but his father can't afford it. Piggley learns that sometimes the best gifts are those from the heart.
Lesson: Sometimes the best gifts are those from the heart.
Episode Summary: Piggley wants a new snow sled for his birthday but his father can't afford it. Piggley learns that sometimes the best gifts are those from the heart.
Lesson: Sometimes the best gifts are those from the heart.
208. HECTOR'S HERO
(Peer relationships, Kindness)
Episode Summary: After Dannan saves Hector from a mild mishap, a grateful, but ever-so-obnoxious Hector won't leave her alone, no matter what she says.
Lesson: Respecting someone's personal space.
Episode Summary: After Dannan saves Hector from a mild mishap, a grateful, but ever-so-obnoxious Hector won't leave her alone, no matter what she says.
Lesson: Respecting someone's personal space.
209. MIND YOUR MANNERS
(Intergenerational relationships, Cooperation)
Episode Summary: Dannan is thrilled when the children are invited to a big party hosted by Mr. McGandry for his cousin, the Ambassador to Denmark, but Piggley's lack of social graces almost ruins the day.
Lesson: Appropriate behavior in different situations.
Episode Summary: Dannan is thrilled when the children are invited to a big party hosted by Mr. McGandry for his cousin, the Ambassador to Denmark, but Piggley's lack of social graces almost ruins the day.
Lesson: Appropriate behavior in different situations.
210. TALE SPINNER
(Literacy, Perseverance)
Episode Summary: When Piggley's substitute teacher assigns them to write a two page true story - he doesn't take it seriously. After all, storytelling comes easy to him so he can do the work the last minute. But when the substitute teacher turns out to be an inspiration to the class, Piggley learns to value his storytelling gift and to work harder at it.
Lesson: Talent is great but you still have to do the work to make it happen.
Episode Summary: When Piggley's substitute teacher assigns them to write a two page true story - he doesn't take it seriously. After all, storytelling comes easy to him so he can do the work the last minute. But when the substitute teacher turns out to be an inspiration to the class, Piggley learns to value his storytelling gift and to work harder at it.
Lesson: Talent is great but you still have to do the work to make it happen.
211. THE WORLD ACCORDING TO MOLLY
(Intergenerational Relationships, Honesty)
Episode Summary: Grown-up Aunt Molly sends Meg drawings she did as a 5-year old. These drawings give a different slant to some of Grandpa Piggley's stories; and reveal the strong influence Piggley had on his younger sister.
Lesson: What older kids do and say has a great impact on their younger siblings.
Episode Summary: Grown-up Aunt Molly sends Meg drawings she did as a 5-year old. These drawings give a different slant to some of Grandpa Piggley's stories; and reveal the strong influence Piggley had on his younger sister.
Lesson: What older kids do and say has a great impact on their younger siblings.
212. MACAROONED
(Friendship, Problem-Solving)
Episode Summary: Grandpa Piggley recounts the story of the time he, Dannan and Ferny got "lost at sea," and were subsequently stranded on a remote island. With only their wits and ingenuity to aid them, the trio tend to their sea-sick chaperone, Finbarr Hornsby, and contend - Robinson Crusoe-like - with the hostile wilderness until Dad Winks can rescue them.
Lesson: You'd be surprised at the creativity and resourcefulness you have within you, when you need it.
Episode Summary: Grandpa Piggley recounts the story of the time he, Dannan and Ferny got "lost at sea," and were subsequently stranded on a remote island. With only their wits and ingenuity to aid them, the trio tend to their sea-sick chaperone, Finbarr Hornsby, and contend - Robinson Crusoe-like - with the hostile wilderness until Dad Winks can rescue them.
Lesson: You'd be surprised at the creativity and resourcefulness you have within you, when you need it.
Episodes
101. Pie Filling
102. The Salmon of Knowledge
103. Ferny Is a Bug
104. The Case of Big Sty
105. All Night Long
106. Picture Perfect
107. Teacher Creature
108. Molly’s Dolly
109. Song of the Banshee
110. Our Dragon’S Egg
111. The Cat Came Back… and Back
112. Good Neighbor
113. Rock Around the Cluck
114. Donkeys Into Racehorses
115. Fir Not
116. The Legend of Raloo
117. Sheep On the Loose
118. Milk Melodrama
119. No Girls Allowed
120. New Best Friends
121. Treasure Hunt
122. For Whom the Bell Trolls
123. A Little Bit of Something Extra! Extra!
124. Ferny Gets a Crush
125. My Right Arm
126. Lucky U
127. Ferny Wears the Star
128. Molly Had a Little Lamb
129. Trial and Error
130. Rain, Rain Go Away
131. A Touch of Spain
132. Dannan’S American Cousin
133. Waking Thor
134. Father’S Day
135. Growing Pains
136. Dannan Does a Jig
137. Searching For a Shamrock
138. Wish Upon a Story - 1
139. Wish Upon a Story - 2
140. The Creepy Cabbages of Galway
201. The Haunted Shipwreck
202. The Monkey
203. Judging a Book By Its Cover
204. Return of the Raloo Rockers
205. How Much Is That Dragon In The Window
206. Mi Galeon
207. The Gift
208. Hector's Hero
209. Mind Your Manners
210. Tale Spinner
211. The World According To Molly
212. Macarooned
