The new television series "Between the Lions" on PBS (Public Broadcasting Service) is designed to teach children ages 4 to 7 the values and purposes for literacy, along with the skills they need to become literate. Highlighted among the curriculum components are: (1) purposes of reading, including reading for pleasure, information, and for assistance in doing something; (2) understanding the nature and structure of texts, including stories, poems, and newspaper articles; (3) understanding the structure of words; (4) understanding the alphabetic principle; (5) knowledge of a substantial number of high-frequency words; and (6) understanding key concepts and conventions of print. The show builds on knowledge and practice gleaned from both holistic and skills-based approaches to instruction, and a whole-part-whole framework defines each episode's format. Research has indicated kindergartners who watched episodes significantly outperformed their nonviewing peers. A number of outreach avenues have been formed, including workshops, a Web site, printable skills practice materials, and a kindergarten teacher's guide to the series. (EF)