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Dora the Explorer facts for kids

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Dora the Explorer
Dora and Boots
From left to right: Swiper (in background), Dora, and Boots
Genre Animated series
Created by Chris Gifford
Valerie Walsh Valdes
Eric Weiner
Directed by George S. Chialtas
Gary Conrad
Henry Lenardin-Madden
Sherie Pollack
Arnie Wong
Voices of Caitlin Sanchez
Kathleen Herles
Harrison Chad
Jake Burbage
Ashley Fleming
Jose Zelaya
Marc Weiner
Sasha Toto
Regan Mizrahi
Theme music composer Joshua Sitron
Billy Straus
Country of origin United States
Original language(s) English
Spanish (Teaches Spanish)
No. of seasons 5
No. of episodes 111 (list of episodes)
Production
Executive producer(s) Chris Gifford
Editor(s) Gayle McIntyre
Karyn Finley Powell
David Wigforss
Running time 30 minutes
Release
Original network Nickelodeon, Nick Jr
Original release August 14, 2000 (2000-08-14) – June 5, 2014 (2014-06-05)
Chronology
Followed by Go, Diego, Go!

Dora the Explorer is a popular American animated TV show. It was created by Chris Gifford, Valerie Walsh, and Eric Weiner. The show first aired in 1999, becoming a regular series in 2000. It quickly became a huge success. In 2010 alone, the series made about $2.5 billion in sales. This shows how much people loved Dora and her adventures.

What is Dora the Explorer About?

Dora the Explorer follows the adventures of a young Latina girl named Dora. She is always ready for an exciting journey. Dora travels with her best friend, a monkey named Boots. Together, they explore a magical world filled with challenges and new discoveries.

Helping Dora on Her Adventures

Dora often asks viewers for help. She needs assistance with puzzles, directions, or finding hidden items. This makes the show interactive and fun for young children. It encourages them to think and participate.

Learning Spanish with Dora

A special part of the show is that Dora teaches basic Spanish words and phrases. She often uses Spanish words during her adventures. This helps kids learn a new language in a fun and natural way. For example, she might ask, "Can you say 'hola'?"

Main Characters in Dora's World

Dora's world is full of interesting characters. Each one plays a role in her adventures.

Dora Marquez

Dora is the main character. She is a brave and curious girl. Dora loves to explore and learn new things. She always carries her special backpack and map.

Boots the Monkey

Boots is Dora's best friend. He is a small, purple monkey who wears red boots. Boots is playful and always ready for an adventure. He often helps Dora solve problems.

Swiper the Fox

Swiper is a sneaky fox. He tries to swipe (steal) items that Dora needs for her journey. To stop him, Dora and Boots must say "Swiper, no swiping!" three times. Swiper is not truly mean; he just loves to swipe.

Backpack and Map

Backpack is Dora's talking backpack. It carries all the items Dora needs for her adventures. Map is a rolled-up map that sings and tells Dora where to go. Both are helpful tools for Dora's quests.

Educational Impact of the Series

Dora the Explorer is more than just a cartoon. It is designed to teach young viewers important skills.

Problem-Solving Skills

Each episode presents Dora with a problem she needs to solve. Viewers help her figure out solutions. This teaches kids how to think critically. It also shows them how to overcome challenges.

Language Learning

The show's focus on Spanish words helps introduce children to a second language. This early exposure can make it easier to learn languages later on. It also promotes cultural awareness.

Cultural Representation

Dora is a Latina character. The show includes elements of Latin American culture. This helps children from diverse backgrounds feel represented. It also teaches all viewers about different cultures.

Legacy and Spin-offs

Dora the Explorer ran for many years, from 2000 to 2014. Its popularity led to other shows and media.

Go, Diego, Go!

A spin-off series called Go, Diego, Go! was created. It features Dora's cousin, Diego. Diego is an animal rescuer. This show also teaches about animals and nature.

Dora and Friends: Into the City!

Later, a new series, Dora and Friends: Into the City!, showed Dora as a slightly older girl. In this show, Dora lives in a city and has new friends. They go on adventures together, solving mysteries.

Images for kids

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Dora, la exploradora para niños

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