“TV Just Got a Makeover! ‘Mixmups’ Launches Ultra-Accessible Viewing for Every Kid”
Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all television. Thanks to Channel 5’s Milkshake! and the charming animated preschool show Mixmups, kids now have a revolutionary new way to enjoy their favorite adventures—completely tailored to their individual needs. With the launch of Mixmups with Ultra Access™, the world of children’s television is taking a huge leap forward in accessibility, inclusion, and interactivity.
A First-of-Its-Kind Viewing Experience
Imagine a show that doesn’t just accommodate accessibility but celebrates it! Developed by Rebecca Atkinson and produced by the award-winning team at Mackinnon & Saunders, Mixmups with Ultra Access goes beyond traditional subtitles and audio descriptions to offer a fully customizable viewing experience. Thanks to interactive streaming technology powered by Stornaway, young viewers, parents, and teachers can tailor episodes to best suit their unique needs. Whether it’s simplified visuals, lower background noise, emotional regulation cues, or interactive sensory props, Mixmups is ensuring every child can engage with the show in a way that feels just right for them.
But that’s not all—Spin, one of the show’s lovable characters, is making history as the first stop-motion animated character to sign in both Makaton and British Sign Language (BSL)! Now that’s what we call groundbreaking television.
A New Era of Object-Based Media
The Ultra Access technology used in Mixmups marks a major industry milestone. Utilizing a cutting-edge Object-Based Media approach, this innovation allows video, audio, and interactive elements to be layered and combined dynamically. This means families can pick and choose their accessibility features—a first for children’s programming.
According to Louise Bucknole, SVP of Kids & Family at Paramount U.K. & Ireland, inclusion is at the heart of Mixmups. “We wanted to create a show for every preschooler, where every child, regardless of ability, could experience the joy of storytelling in their own way,” she said. “These Ultra Access episodes take that vision even further, ensuring that children of all abilities can fully immerse themselves in the fun, adventure, and magic of Mixington Valley.”
Meet the Mixmups: A World Without Barriers
Set in the vibrant and whimsical Mixington Valley, Mixmups follows the adventures of Pockets, Giggle, and Spin, three friends who use their magical wooden spoon to embark on hilarious, imaginative escapades. Accompanied by their trusty assistance pets, Roller Guinea and Yapette the Guide Dog, the Mixmups embrace the joys of play, curiosity, and friendship—all while showcasing a world designed with inclusion and accessibility in mind.
Mixmups is Channel 5’s first preschool series featuring disabled lead characters, and it’s made by a team with first-hand experience in disability representation. Every detail has been carefully crafted to be both entertaining and authentic, making this show a beacon of diversity in children’s programming.
Where to Watch & How to Join the Magic
Since its launch in November 2023, all 52 episodes of Mixmups have been available on Milkshake!, complete with audio description and British Sign Language options. Now, with Ultra Access, families can take their viewing experience to the next level, adjusting the content to fit their specific needs.
For those looking for even more accessibility, Milkshake’s YouTube channel features an audio description introduction to the series, giving visually impaired viewers a detailed breakdown of the characters and their world before they even hit play.
Leading the Future of Inclusive Entertainment
Mixmups is more than just a show—it’s a movement towards a future where all children can enjoy television without barriers. Developed with support from the U.K. Government’s Young Audiences Content Fund and in collaboration with Raydar Media, the series is setting a new standard for representation in kids’ entertainment.
According to Mackinnon & Saunders, the team behind the beloved characters, bringing Mixmups to life has been a true labor of love. “Combining animation artistry with lived experience of disability, we wanted to create something that was both authentic and fun. The opportunity to innovate with Ultra Access has been incredible—it’s a true first in children’s programming.”
Final Thoughts: Why This Matters
At its core, Mixmups with Ultra Access is about making storytelling accessible, inclusive, and joyful for every child. With its pioneering technology, heartwarming characters, and mission-driven creators, this show is proving that the future of kids’ TV isn’t just bright—it’s tailor-made for everyone.
So, if you’re looking for an engaging, inclusive, and downright magical viewing experience for your little one, head over to Milkshake! and Mix Up the Magic! 🎉
