On October 13, 2025, a friendly panda named Paolo made television history. In an episode of the PBS KIDS series Carl the Collector called “A New Friend,” young viewers met a character who is autistic, largely nonspeaking, and communicates using a speech tablet — the first time an AAC device had ever been represented in a PBS KIDS show.

One year later, Paolo is still one of the best tools parents and teachers have for talking with kids about the many ways people communicate.

A Show Built on Authentic Representation

Carl the Collector premiered on PBS KIDS in November 2024 as the network’s first series led by autistic characters. Carl is an autistic raccoon who loves building collections, and his friend Lotta the fox is autistic too. The show was designed to reflect the real range of the autism spectrum — and fans asked for more. According to the show’s creator, a nonspeaking character was one of the most common requests.

Paolo loves outer space, and like Carl, he’s a collector. He openly stims, has clear interests, and uses his AAC device to introduce himself and explain how it helps him talk.

The Voice Behind Paolo

What makes Paolo especially meaningful is who brings him to life. He is voiced by Odin Frost, a young man from Tyler, Texas, who is autistic, nonspeaking, has cerebral palsy, and uses AAC himself. Odin used his own device to help create Paolo’s lines and vocal reactions — and his family says he’s the first nonspeaking person to voice a character in a syndicated cartoon.

The series also worked with Dr. Stephen Shore, an autistic professor of special education at Adelphi University, to make sure Paolo and his device were portrayed accurately.

Why This Matters for AAC Families

• Kids learn what AAC is before they meet it. A classmate who’s seen Paolo is more likely to understand a peer’s device right away.
• It models good communication etiquette. The show gently teaches that when someone is typing, you give them time.
• AAC users see themselves as the hero’s friend. Not a lesson. Not a problem to solve. A friend.
• Nothing about us without us. Casting a nonspeaking actor proves that authentic representation is possible.

How to Use the Episode at Home or School

Watch “A New Friend” together, then try a few conversation starters:

• “How does Paolo talk? What are some other ways people communicate?”
• “What does Paolo collect? What would you collect?”
• “What could you do to be a good friend to someone who uses a talker?”

If your child uses AAC, model the answers on their device as you talk. It’s a fun, low-pressure way to practice.

Here’s to More Paolos

A year after his debut, Paolo is proof that kids’ media can be joyful and inclusive at the same time. We can’t wait to see more AAC users on screen — and behind the microphone.

What shows or books featuring AAC users does your family love? Share your picks with us @eyetechds.