Daniel's New Friend Max
Episode: 506a
Air Date: April 5, 2021
Previous Episode: 505 - Daniel's Substitute Teacher
Next Episode: 506b - A New Friend at the Clock Factory
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Daniel Tiger has just arrived at school where he joins his friends for circle time. He quickly notices that someone new is sitting next to Teacher Harriet. Teacher Harriet introduces the newcomer as Max, her nephew who is visiting. Everyone is excited to meet Max but their noise is overwhelming for him. Teacher Harriet places a heavy blanket on Max's shoulders which brings him comfort. She goes on to explain that Max is autistic which means that "something about him are different than you."
Teacher Harriet shares a book that she and Max made together called "Max Visits School" and reminds Daniel and his friends that they can help Max by using quiet voices and giving him a little extra space. The book explains that Max likes to have his own space and often needs time before he is ready to play with new friends.
During choice time, Daniel finds Max playing with toy buses and attempts to ask him questions. When Max does not respond, Daniel is confused. Teacher Harriet explains that sometimes Max needs more time to think about questions. As Max continues talking about buses, Teacher Harriet shares that when Max is excited about something, he sometimes wants to talk only about that one thing.
In an attempt to engage Max, Daniel decides to build a bus station out of blocks and make-believes that he is riding on all kinds of buses.
Daniel and Max are playing together when they are invited to a tea party hosted by Katerina Kittycat and O the Owl. Daniel decides to continue playing buses until Max is ready to go to the tea party. With their buses in hand, Daniel and Max find their way to the tea party.
Strategy
- "When a friend needs different things than you, there are some things you can do."
Songs
Appearing In This Episode
- Daniel Tiger
- Jodi Platypus
- Katerina Kittycat
- Max
- Miss Elaina
- O the Owl
- Prince Wednesday
- Teacher Harriet
Images
Episode Credits
Written by Becky Friedman
Created by Angela C. Santomero
Based on the work of Fred Rogers
© 2021 The Fred Rogers Company