Minnie Mouse first appeared as a star in her own right in animated form in 1928 in a screen test for a short entitled ‘Plane Crazy’ where she was the potential love interest of Mickey, but this mouse really made her first impression on the public in ‘Steamboat Willie’ (which was the first Disney cartoon with synchronized sound).
However since that time, this beloved cartoon character has grown to be a powerhouse in her own right – and today appeals, especially to preschool, going young girls. She is now a star in her own right when it comes to content that appeals to this target audience.
The launch of Minnie Mouse Bow-toons which ran from 2011 to 2016 on the Disney Junior channel ensured that Minnie would have an appeal that rivaled that of Mickey.
The series follows the exploits of Minnie and her bestie Daisy Duck as they cope with the challenge and adventures of running Minnie’s Bow-tique. The show ran over 5 seasons and in the fourth Minnie and co travel across the globe visiting major cities such as London and Tokyo.
The episodes are ideally suited to the younger generation. They encourage curiosity and imagination – and show the value of friendship. They encourage preschoolers to value individualism and determination. They also introduce young children to the pantheon of other Disney characters.
A series such as this is the ideal material for younger children to start exploring the power of imagination. This particular series also introduces children to the idea of a larger world – all without anxiety and presented in a format that is friendly and approachable.
Of course, parents and caregivers that introduce the younger generation to Minnie Mouseneed to fear that those under their care will not be able to enjoy other products from the Disney empire that are related to the iconic Minnie.
There are dress-up costumes, those iconic mouse ears (in the form of a headband), fun kids jewelry, back to school items, tumblers and sippy cups, games, cosmetics, and a whole lot more – and most are available online.
The Minnie Mouse cartoons, be it the original Bow-Tique productions or the Bow-Toons series are the perfect introductions to the gentle and iconic side of Disney (Minnie has developed into a character that simply loves everyone and is always willing to go that extra mile to help others in need).
Each of the collections is simply perfect for Saturday Morning cartoon viewing and will keep preschoolers occupied for hours.
Minnie is over 90 years old – but she remains an evergreen favorite who has grown and developed over the decades. The fact that she boasts her own star of the Hollywood walk of fame is a testament to how this cartoon mouse goes toe to toe with the best in the business – and that includes boyfriend Mickey.
Her cartoons are also the perfect way for parents and caregivers to spend some quality time enjoying the innocence and smiles of those children who are exposed to Minnie’s timeless appeal.
