MUMBAI: Popular television channel for babies and toddlers, BabyTV, will offer a Mandarin language option for viewers in Singapore, starting 3 September.

Parents will be able to choose between English or Chinese for all BabyTV programmes to suit the learning needs of their little ones.

BabyTV, Fox International‘s 24-hour commercial-free channel for up to 4 year olds, offers a line-up of exclusive programming that blends learning and entertainment for babies and toddlers.

The introduction of Mandarin during children‘s early formative years will enable them to have a better command of the language, especially in Singapore‘s predominantly English-speaking environment. BabyTV‘s new language initiative also aligns with the Singapore government‘s direction in promoting bilingualism, particularly for Mandarin.

"The additional language offering in BabyTV programmes helps to create a bilingual environment for toddlers in Singapore," said FOX International Channels (FIC) Singapore VP and Territory Head Yvonne Tay.

"Television is a great entertainment and educational tool for young viewers when introduced in the right environment. By offering dual language options, we hope to further strengthen the educational value of BabyTV."

Added StarHub VP of Home Solutions & Content Iris Wee, "BabyTV is an instrumental part of our Kids Basic Upsize Group. The new Mandarin language option is a welcome addition and will help improve language skills among our young viewers. This also broadens the channel‘s appeal and provides more options to our StarHub TV customers."

Two new animated series, Big Bugs Band and Stick with Mick, will be airing this September to enhance the new arrangement. Big Bugs Band is an animated programme that introduces musical pieces from different cultures, allowing kids to learn and enjoy music at the same time. Stick with Mick brings children to a world of new vocabulary and concepts of opposites, shapes and colours.