The Puzzle Place

3/25/23, 4:00 PM The Puzzle Place - Wikipedia
The Puzzle Place

The Puzzle Place is an American children's television series
produced by KCET in Los Angeles and Lancit Media in New The Puzzle Place
York City. Although production was dated and premiered on
two Los Angeles PBS stations, KCET and KLCS, on September
15, 1994, it did not officially premiere on all PBS stations
nationwide until January 16, 1995, with its final episode airing
on December 4, 1998, and reruns airing until March 31, 2000.
It became one of PBS Kids' most popular series on the line-up
since Sesame Street.
On April 3, 2000, Between the Lions replaced it on the

schedule of many PBS stations.
Created by Cecily Truett
Suzanne Singer
Premise Rob Stork
Ellis Weiner
The series follows a multi-ethnic group of children (puppets)
David Yazbek
from different parts of the United States who gather and
socialize at a special child hangout known as the Puzzle Place. Starring Alice Dinnean
In each episode, the characters are confronted with an Carmen Osbahr
everyday conflict usually encountered in childhood years, such Jim Martin
as making moral decisions, sharing, racism and sexism. Noel MacNeal
Eric Jacobson
Characters Peter Linz
Matt Vogel
Julie Woo is a Chinese American girl from San Francisco, Drew Massey
California. She is very sensitive and caring of her personal Alison Mork
possessions and she sometimes tries a little too hard. She
Stephanie
especially loves singing; though, outside of the show's
musical numbers, her voice can be cacophonous to D'Abruzzo
humorous effect. Performed by Alice Dinnean. Terri Hardin
Kiki Flores is a Mexican American girl from San Antonio, Allan Trautman
Texas. She is very outgoing and has a temper. She is also Theme music Steve Horelick
a great chili cook and has a Spanish-speaking cousin composer Janet Weir
named Magdalena (“Hello Maggie”) who helps everyone to
learn about acceptance. Performed by Carmen Osbahr. Composers Steve Horelick
Ben Olafson is a Norwegian American boy from a farm Janet Weir
near Renner, South Dakota. Like Jody, he is a child of a Country of United States
single parent, but unlike her, whose are divorced, his father origin
is deceased (“Big Boys Don’t Cry”). He is good at solving
difficult puzzles and a talented dancer. Though normally Original English
easygoing and friendly, he can be unforgiving when language
angered. Performed by Jim Martin.
No. of seasons 3
Leon MacNeal is an African American boy, possibly of
West African origin, from New York City, New York (state). No. of episodes 75
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Puzzle_Place 1/16
He wears dreadlocks, gets jealous easily, and sometimes Production

does not think before he acts. He is a fan of hip-hop music
and loves basketball. Performed by Noel MacNeal in Executive Cecily Truett
seasons 1 and 2, with Eric Jacobson puppeteering him to producers Larry Lancit
MacNeal's voice in season 3. Stephen Kulczycki
Skye Nakaiye is a Western Apache boy from the Fort (seasons 1–2)
Apache Indian Reservation in Arizona. He always wears a Patricia Kunkel
bandanna, a yellow coat, and a feather necklace. He is
(season 3)
naturally curious and believes in staying true to his values
and culture. Performed by Peter Linz in seasons 1 and 2, Camera setup Videotape; Multi-
and Matt Vogel in season 3. camera
Jody Silver is a Jewish Lithuanian American girl from Running time 30 minutes
Cincinnati, Ohio. Her parents are divorced, with her mother
living in New York City (“Rip van Wrinkle”). She does not Production KCET
like to be called names, and she can be gullible but is companies Lancit Media
usually enthusiastic. Performed by Alison Mork in season
Release
1, Stephanie D'Abruzzo in season 2, and Terri Hardin in
season 3. Original network PBS Kids
Kyle O'Connor is an Irish American boy and wheelchair Picture format NTSC
user who appears in some episodes. Initially performed by
Drew Massey, and later puppeteered by Allan Trautman to Original release January 16, 1995 –
Hardin's voice. December 4, 1998
Weebus is the group's smart talking super-telecomputer
that they use to communicate with people outside of the Puzzle Place. She is also capable of
performing automated tasks and playing video clips to answer a question.
Nuzzle and Sizzle are the pet dog and cat, respectively, at the Puzzle Place. They are seen
mostly in the basement, talking to each other, and acting as animals around the kids. They are
usually involved in a subplot. Sizzle was performed by Dinnean, and Nuzzle was performed by
Linz in seasons 1 and 2 and Vogel in season 3.
The Piece Police are multicolored inhabitants of the Puzzle Place. They communicate amongst
themselves using gibberish, although they understand English. It is hinted in some episodes that
they all know what Sizzle and Nuzzle are saying. Originally performed by Osbahr, Martin,
MacNeal, and Mork, with D'Abruzzo replacing Mork in season 2, and Jacobson and Hardin
replacing MacNeal and D'Abruzzo in season 3. D'Abruzzo also provided their singing voices.
Episodes
Pilot episodes
In early 1994, two pilot episodes were produced for the series known as The Puzzle Works. Eventually,
the show was renamed The Puzzle Place shortly before its premiere months later.
Series overview
Originally aired
Season Episodes
First aired Last aired
1 40 January 16, 1995[1] March 10, 1995
2 25 January 15, 1996 February 16, 1996
3 10 October 19, 1998 December 4, 1998
Season 1 (1995)
No. No. in
Title Original air date
overall series
1 1 "Tippy Woo" January 16, 1995
Julie obtains a teddy bear, and names it after herself. She also remarks on some unflattering
nicknames other kids have given her.
Featured song: “It’s My Name,” performed by Julie and the kids
2 2 "Train Driving Kids" January 17, 1995
The boys have a model train but refuse to share with the girls, insisting it’s a boys’ activity. Nuzzle
struggles to play a toy xylophone.
Featured song: “I Can Do Anything,” performed by the kids
3 3 "Rip Van Wrinkle" January 18, 1995
Leon, Kiki, Julie and Skye host a slumber party but have to work together to help each one's
bedtime needs be met, or else the “slumber” part will be difficult. Sizzle and Nuzzle try to be
nocturnal, but it’s harder than it seems.
Featured song: “Kumbaya,” performed by Vaneese Thomas
4 4 "Accentuate the Positive" January 19, 1995
Kiki dresses as a space alien, distressed that other kids at school laughed at her Hispanic accent.
Featured song: “Small World,” performed by Kiki and the kids
5 5 "Gotta Dance" January 20, 1995
The kids obtain a sheet of dance steps and learn of various cultural dances while trying to decipher
it. Sizzle recalls the time Nuzzle criticized her for carrying her tail wrong and refuses to dance with
him again.
Guest stars: Nia Peeples and Fred Kelly as themselves
Featured song: “Cha-Cha,” performed by the kids
6 6 "Rudy One" January 23, 1995
A robot shows up at the Puzzle Place and befriends Leon, while insulting everyone else, in an
attempt to sabotage everyone’s friendship. Sizzle turns to Nuzzle for advice after a new cat calls
her a “snooty patootie.”
Featured song: “You Can’t Say That,” performed by the kids and Rudy One
7 7 "Butterfingers" January 24, 1995
The kids hold a relay race, but Ben drops his baton, prompting the nickname “Butterfingers” from
everyone else. Nuzzle tries to show off his bravado by wanting to be called “Professor Muscles.”
Featured song: “I Believe in Me,” performed by Ben
Guest star: Mark Nizer as Ben's cousin Mark
8 8 "Rock Dreams" January 25, 1995
Skye aspires to perform music, but is discouraged by the fact that he doesn't know very many
Native American performers. Nuzzle gets so tired of watching Sizzle listen to Swiss yodeling music
that he tries to make her yodel herself.
Featured songs: “Born to Strum,” “Stevie Wonder,” and “Julio Iglesias,” performed by Skye; “The
Prayer Song,” performed by Red Thunder
Guest stars: Red Thunder as themselves
9 9 "Roamantics" January 26, 1995
Ben brings in an ant farm, but Leon unwittingly wreaks havoc in an attempt to give the ants fresh
air. Nuzzle gets carried away with a roll of paper towel.
Featured song: “Anticipate,” performed by Leon
10 10 "Spud Buds" January 27, 1995
Skye finds a party box in the kitchen, but everyone else is too distracted watching TV to take
interest. Nuzzle wishes he hadn’t let Sizzle use a flying machine all she wants.
Featured song: “Changing Channels,” performed by Skye and the kids
Notes: Several of the puppet performers appear on-screen in live action clips the kids watch on TV: Jim Martin and
Alison Mork as paleontologists who meet a dinosaur; Peter Linz and Alice Dinnean as the stars of a cheap children’s
show; and Carmen Osbahr as a soap star.
11 11 "Different Drummer" January 30, 1995
Julie plays referee to Skye and Leon’s dispute over whose cultural drum is better. Sizzle takes up
skateboarding.
Featured song: “All the Different Drummers,” performed by Skye and Leon
12 12 "I Love Kiki" January 31, 1995
Kiki is at a loss as to what to do when she unwittingly “breaks” Julie’s toy horse. Sizzle looks after
the sneaker that Nuzzle likes to chew on, but when the Piece Police throw it out as she naps, she
panics. Ben does not appear in this episode.
Featured song: “I Think I’ll Do It,” performed by Kiki
13 13 "True Colors" February 1, 1995
The kids all partner up to paint one another, but initially can’t find a suitable paint color for
everyone. Sizzle wants to paint a self-portrait, but it’s too hard for her.
Featured song: “Colors,” performed by an uncredited session singer
Guest star: Anna Mason as herself
14 14 "Cute Is as Cute Does" February 2, 1995
Julie wants to emulate her favorite singer, Penny Candy, but sees her true colors when a crisis in
the greenhouse hits. Nuzzle bores Sizzle to sleep when he tries to show her a photo album of
when he was a puppy.
Featured song: “C.U.T.E. Cute,”[a] performed by Penny Candy
Guest star: Amy Hill as Penny Candy
15 15 "Leon’s Pizza" February 3, 1995
Leon wants to make a pizza for everyone but needs a creative solution to satisfy everyone’s
different topping preferences. Sizzle and Nuzzle fight over which toy is better.
Featured song: “Pizza,” performed by the kids
16 16 "Real Heroes" February 6, 1995
The kids compare their favorite superheroes but need to band together when the pets get caught in
a dangerous situation.
Featured song: “My Hero,” performed by the kids
Guest star: Robert Townsend
17 17 "Going by the Book" February 7, 1995
The kids want to play Sleeping Beauty, but as four of them don’t fit the description of the
protagonists, they research other princes and princesses that reflect their individual heritages.
Featured song: “No One Can Be It Like You,” performed by the kids
18 18 "Mad Music Magic" February 8, 1995
Kiki leads the kids in a makeshift band, but her authority seems to do more harm than good when
she won’t allow them to play their preferred instruments. Sizzle attends her cousin’s birthday party,
so Nuzzle tries to be the dog and the cat at the same time.
Featured song: “I Can Sing,” performed by Kiki
19 19 "Party of One" February 9, 1995
Leon learns a hard lesson in racism when he’s barred from attending a friend’s birthday party
simply because he’s African-American. Nuzzle refuses to fetch a stick for Kiki because she didn’t
say “the magic word” (which Sizzle tries in vain to guess).
Featured song: “A Lot Like Me,” performed by Leon and the kids
20 20 "Dancing Dragon" February 10, 1995
Skye and Kiki unwittingly invade Julie’s privacy by opening a package meant for her. Nuzzle and
Sizzle cause some mischief with it.
Featured song: “Dancing Dragon,” performed by the kids
21 21 "Picture Perfect" February 13, 1995
Ben is unwilling to wear his glasses for a group picture because of some teasing. Nuzzle goes for a
“hip cat” approach, which fails to impress Sizzle.
Featured song: “My Glasses,” performed by an uncredited session singer
22 22 "Maiden Voyages" February 14, 1995
Kiki and Julie enjoy moon cakes, but a humorous misunderstanding may mean Julie will marry
Leon.
Featured song: "You for Me, Me for You," performed by the kids
23 23 "Donuts and Dithering" February 15, 1995
The kids receive six assorted donuts, and Jody gets first dibs, but she struggles to decide which
one she wants. Leon attempts to manipulate her choice to keep her from picking the one he wants,
but it backfires. Sizzle and Nuzzle so badly want to take a donut themselves.
Featured song: “It’s Up to You,” performed by the kids
24 24 "Bully for Jody" February 16, 1995
Jody is a victim of bullying when a bigger student keeps stealing her lunch. Sizzle also tries to keep
away a bigger cat.
Featured song: “Friends,” performed by the kids
Guest stars: Sinbad as himself, Ben Ryan Ganger as the bully
25 25 "Ben’s Bad Hair Day" February 17, 1995
Ben attempts to change his “boring” hairstyle with disastrous results.
Featured song: “Hair,” performed by Ben and the kids.
26 26 "All Weather Friends" February 20, 1995
When a storm hits the Puzzle Place, Leon is embarrassed to admit he is afraid of thunder and
lightning.
Featured song: “Children of the Earth,” performed by Skye
27 27 "Bread and Matzoh" February 21, 1995
Skye brings some special bread from his tribe to share with the kids but is troubled when Jody
refuses to try any for eight days. It turns out she has a good reason, though. Sizzle and Nuzzle get
very hungry because the kids forget to feed them.
Featured song: “Bread,” performed by the kids
28 28 "Owning It" February 22, 1995
Leon obtains a new watch but drives everyone else crazy with it, causing them to snap back at
him. Kiki is preparing chili in the kitchen, and Sizzle and Nuzzle want to taste it so badly.
Guest star: Paula Poundstone
29 29 "Baffled Ben" February 23, 1995
Ben is struggling to put together a puzzle but angrily snaps and puts down anyone who tries to help
him.
Featured song: "Saying Something Nice," performed by Ben and the kids
30 30 "Practice Makes Perfect" February 24, 1995
While nearly all the kids are sick, Skye finds a guitar and wants to play it, but he is slow to
understand that he has to put time and effort into becoming good at it. Sizzle tries playing billiards.
Featured song: “Keep on Trying,” performed by an uncredited session singer
Guest stars: Los Camperos de Nati Cano as themselves
31 31 "Finders Keepers" February 27, 1995
Julie finds Skye’s misplaced Apache pollen pouch and is so enamored with it that she doesn’t
return it right away, damaging her friendship with Skye when she finally does. Jody does not
appear in this episode.
Featured song: “Sacred Ways,” performed by Skye.
Note: Part of this episode appeared on the video Kids for Character to illustrate trustworthiness.
32 32 "You Say Potato" February 28, 1995
The kids bring in items for a picnic but can’t seem to agree on where to have it. Skye and Julie
prefer the mountains and Ben and Kiki prefer the park. Even the two duos can’t agree on the
specifics. Sizzle and Nuzzle are excited to go on the picnic themselves, especially for bird-
watching.
Featured song: “Picnic,” performed by the kids
33 33 "At the End of Our Rope" March 1, 1995

The boys challenge the girls to a game of tug of war but are unexpectedly defeated and can’t figure out why.
34 34 "Just Kidding" March 2, 1995
The others tease Skye when he forgets to bring a bat to a baseball game. He gets upset and
leaves. They feel badly about upsetting him, even if they were just joking. Sizzle and Nuzzle climb
up a tree in the greenhouse but are too scared to come down. Kiki and Leon do not appear in this
episode (other than flashbacks).
Featured song: “I’m Glad I’m with You,” performed by Sizzle and Nuzzle
35 35 "Everything in Its Place" March 3, 1995
Kiki makes plans to clean the place, but it doesn’t go as planned.
36 36 "Big Boys Don’t Cry" March 6, 1995
Leon cries when the others exclude him from his own pancake making recipe and is labelled a
“crybaby” by Ben and Skye. Sizzle and Nuzzle filch all the pancakes made.
Featured song: “Let Them Show,” performed by Porter Carroll, Jr.
37 37 "Here’s to the Winners" March 7, 1995
Ben becomes discouraged when everyone but him has won a trophy for something, even though
he does have an impressive skill that’s worthy of a prize in and of itself. Sizzle and Nuzzle do not
Featured song: “Ben the Winner,” performed by the kids
Guest star: Justin Lord
38 38 "A World of Difference" March 8, 1995
Everyone except Skye disguise themselves as identical superheroes, but Skye still can tell who is
who.
Featured song: “One of a Kind,” performed by Skye, Nuzzle, and the kids
39 39 "Willing and Able" March 9, 1995
Ben takes pity on Skye’s friend Kyle, who’s in a wheelchair. Sizzle and Nuzzle find out the hard
way that she can’t bury a bone and he can’t climb a tree. Leon and Kiki do not appear in this
episode.
Featured song: “We’re All the Same,” performed by the kids and Kyle
Guest performer: Drew Massey as Kyle
40 40 "It's Magic" March 10, 1995
Kiki becomes scared when her friends disappear after a failed magic act. Nuzzle becomes inspired
by a heroic dog on TV.
Featured song: “On My Own,” performed by Kiki
a. Referred to in the episode as “And I’m Cute to Boot,” but listed in the credits as “C.U.T.E. Cute.”
Season 2 (1996)
No. No. in
overall series
41 1 "Deck the Halls" January 15, 1996
The kids prepare for Christmas but are shocked that Jody does not celebrate with them.
Featured songs: “Holiday Lights,” performed by the kids; “Jingle Bells,” performed by Patti LaBelle
Guest star: Patti LaBelle as herself
42 2 "Dressing Up Is Hard to Do" January 16, 1996
Julie criticizes what Jody wants to wear to the “grown-up” theme party at Puzzle Place. But when
the others kids like Jody’s outfit better than hers, Julie learns that the only reason you need for
wearing something is because you like it.
Featured song: “It’s You,” performed by the kids
43 3 "One Way" January 17, 1996
Skye and Leon find out that there are many ways to make kites and that just because one way
works doesn’t mean another way won’t work just as well. Sizzle attempts playing basketball. Julie
and Ben do not appear in this episode.
Featured song: “Each in Our Own Way,” performed by Kiki, Leon, Skye, and Jody
44 4 "Oldies But Goodies" January 18, 1996
Julie is torn between spending the day with her grandmother or singing in the talent show. Skye and Jody do not
45 5 "Helping Hands" January 19, 1996
Kiki decides to prune a big tree by herself and becomes exasperated when she discovers that the
job is too much for her to do alone. She learns that it’s okay to ask for help when you need it.
Nuzzle obtains a motorcycle and Sizzle so badly wants to try it herself. Julie, Ben, and Leon do not
Featured song: “Just Call My Name,” performed by Sizzle and Nuzzle
Guest performers: Allan Trautman (puppeteer) and Terri Hardin (voice) as Kyle
46 6 "Yellow Belt" January 22, 1996

When Ben teases Jody that girls can’t learn martial arts, she quickly teaches him a lesson.
47 7 "The Mystery of the Fabulous Hat" January 23, 1996
Leon learns that playing Sherlock Holmes isn’t enough to solve a mystery. He needs Dr. Watson,
his teammate Ben. Everyone learns that being part of a team means respecting your teammates
and appreciating their unique contributions. Sizzle and Nuzzle steal the fabulous hat in question
and destroy it. Julie and Skye do not appear in this episode.
Featured song: “Two Heads Are Better Than One,” performed by Leon and Ben
Guest star: Lynne Thigpen as The Chief
48 8 "How Much Is That Doggie in the Window?" January 24, 1996
Kiki tries to prove to her mother that she’s ready to take care of a pet by taking care of Nuzzle. She
soon realizes that she’s not ready for the responsibility. Sizzle so badly wants to climb a curtain in
the basement but keeps falling down.
Featured song: “Doggone Shame”
49 9 "The New Adventures of Julie Woo" January 25, 1996
Julie tries out a new and different game and realizes how much fun it can be. Nuzzle takes up the
Scottish bagpipes and tries to get Sizzle to play too, all the while annoying her by calling her
“lassie.” Kiki and Leon do not appear in this episode.
Featured song: “Into the New,” performed by Julie
50 10 "We Three Kings" January 26, 1996
The boys meet pro-basketball player Cedric Ceballos and learn that there is a difference between
being bossy and being a leader.
Featured song: “If I Were King,” performed by Leon
Guest stars: James Black as Leon’s Uncle Ray, Cedric Ceballos as himself
51 11 "Hello, Maggie" January 29, 1996
Kiki’s cousin Maggie visits from Mexico. Even though she only speaks Spanish, the other kids learn
that friendship and communication can develop through gestures and a few simple words. Nuzzle
gets trapped in a dollhouse. Leon and Jody do not appear in this episode.
Featured song: “Friendship Is a Garden,” performed by Skye and Maggie
Note: Carmen Osbahr performs Maggie.
52 12 "Off the Track" January 30, 1996
Ben and Leon fight over who gets to lay the last piece of train track. They get so angry that they hit
each other and their fight ruins the game for everyone, including themselves. Once they realize
that fighting is a bad idea, they learn what else they can do when they feel so angry that they want
to hit someone. A replay of their fight shows them points where they could have stopped to talk
things out.
Guest star: Ernie Hudson
53 13 "Beautiful Doll" January 31, 1996
Unbeknownst to Julie, Nuzzle has taken her favorite doll. Julie is understandably upset, so Leon
decides to conduct an all-out search. Ben and Skye do not appear in this episode.
Featured song: “You’re My Doll,” performed by Julie, Kiki, Leon, and Jody
54 14 "Tattle Tales" February 1, 1996

Leon sees his brother accidentally break his father’s favorite lamp. Leon doesn’t want to be a tattletale, but he doesn’t
want to lie either. When he learns that telling the truth is not the same as tattling, he knows just what to do.
55 15 "Those Ears, Those Eyes" February 2, 1996
Julie is upset because a classmate calls her eyes “funny.” Her friends help her see that everyone’s eyes are different
and beautiful, and that they are all just right for them. Nuzzle imagines what it would be like to have different kinds of
ears.
56 16 "That’s Weird" February 5, 1996
The children think Ben’s Norwegian dancing and traditional costumes are weird. They soon learn
that things that are new to them just might be interesting, not weird. Sizzle, likewise, finds Nuzzle
chewing on a toy car weird. Skye and Jody do not appear in this episode.
Note: This episode does not feature an original song.
57 17 "The Ballad of Davy Cricket" February 6, 1996
When Jody’s pet cricket dies, the friends share how different cultures deal with death. Children
learn what to do with all the strong feelings that come up when someone (or something) they love
dies. They find answers in the traditional practices of their culture, their families and their friends.
Nuzzle is so excited to see his favorite dog groomer that Sizzle couldn’t care less. Ben and Skye
do not appear in this episode.
Featured song: “When I Think of You,” performed by Jody
Guest star: Martin Grey as Jody’s dad
58 18 "Little Leon, Big Ben" February 7, 1996

The children decide to host a circus. But Leon is too small to fit into a costume. With his friends’ help, he discovers that
size shouldn’t matter.
59 19 "I Scream, You Scream" February 8, 1996
Jody and the kids learn that dealing with a difficult situation is easier when you’re able to talk about
your feelings, especially with issues like divorce and remarriage. Sizzle and Nuzzle think of ways to
organize the basement. Julie and Ben do not appear in this episode.
Featured song: “Can We Talk,” performed by Jody
Guest stars: Susan Angelo as Debbie, Martin Grey as Jody’s dad, Lyndon Mosse as a waiter
Note: Noel MacNeal appears on screen as a French waiter.
60 20 "Skye’s Coat" February 9, 1996
Everyone has a new raincoat except Skye. The kids convince him that he can make his raincoat
special by decorating it in his own way.
Featured song: “In the Rain,” performed by Skye
61 21 "It’s Mine" February 12, 1996
Julie and Kiki want to play with the same thing at the same time. With the help of Skye’s Uncle
Victorio, a member of the Tribunal Council, they learn that the best way to solve a conflict is to
make a rule that everyone agrees to follow. The kids brainstorm lots of ideas before they finally find
a rule that everyone thinks will work. Sizzle and Nuzzle fight over napping spots. Ben and Jody do
not appear in this episode.
Featured song: “Find Another Way,” performed by Julie, Kiki, Leon, and Skye
Guest star: Miguel Najera as Skye’s Uncle Victorio
62 22 "One Big, Happy Family" February 13, 1996

Ben, Skye and Julie cheer up Jody after a boy makes fun of her nontraditional family.
63 23 "Leon Grows Up" February 14, 1996
Leon wants to be a grownup because he thinks grownups can do whatever they want. When he
realizes that there are lots of things grownups have to do that kids don’t have to worry about, he
decides he can wait. Sizzle wears a new sweater that makes her sneeze, and Nuzzle thinks he can
be a doctor to her. Julie and Skye do not appear in this episode.
Featured song: “When I’m a Grownup,” performed by Leon and the kids
Guest star: T.C. Carson as himself
64 24 "Cowpokes" February 15, 1996
Julie and Leon are scared of something they’ve never tried: horseback riding. They find out that when you have the
courage to try new things you end up being proud of yourself.
65 25 "Hurricane Julie" February 16, 1996
When Julie sees that her excitement about playing in the wading pool is actually hurting people
(and pets), she understands that it is important to be careful.
Featured song: “Be Cool,” performed by the kids
Season 3 (1998)
No. No. in
overall series
66 1 "Family Fun" October 19, 1998
On family photo day, the gang learns about diverse types of families. Nuzzle and Sizzle see a
single-parent family, a grandparent lead family, and an adoptive family.
Guest star: Lauren Tom as Julie's mom
67 2 "Anything She Can Do" October 20, 1998
Julie is upset because her mother gives so much attention to her baby sister, Helen. Nuzzle is
suspicious of the newly installed pet door.
Guest star: Lauren Tom as Julie's mom
68 3 "You Don’t Match" October 21, 1998

Ben’s lack of exposure to diversity causes him to assume that Tim can’t be Leon’s cousin because Tim is too fair-
skinned. When he learns he is wrong, Ben’s openness in accepting his mistake helps his view of the world grow as he
discovers that even people who are the same race have different colors of skin.
69 4 "To Have and Have Not" October 26, 1998
Skye worries that the others won't play with him because his parents refuse to buy an expensive new toy. Nuzzle fakes
an injury to get sympathy.
70 5 "Fiesta Follies" October 27, 1998

The gang wants to throw Kiki a birthday party, but they learn that she likes different things than they do. Meanwhile,
Sizzle becomes a Mexican heartthrob's biggest fan.
71 6 "Between You and Me" October 28, 1998
Skye refuses to let Leon wear his Apache necklace, and Leon gets upset. When the kids hide Nuzzle and Sizzle’s
favorite toys, they search everywhere to find them.
72 7 "A Star Is Burned" October 29, 1998
Skye is directing the kids' production of Rapunzel. Julie gets mad when he praises costar Ben. Kiki
and Jody do not appear in this episode.
Featured song: “I’m a Star" performed by Skye, Ben, & Julie
73 8 "Spooky" October 30, 1998
Skye and Ben exclude Kiki and Julie from their Count Spookula club because they don't think girls
like spooky stuff, but they learn that some girls do like scary stuff, and some boys don't. Leon and
Jody do not appear in this episode.
Featured song: “Scary Stories,” performed by Julie, Kiki, Ben, and Skye
Guest stars: Tommy Koenig as Count Spookula, Cathy Ladman as Doris Spookula
74 9 "Up!" December 3, 1998
Julie and Ben are surprised by Kyle's new activity of rock climbing. They incorrectly assume that people who use
wheelchairs can't do something physically challenging, like climbing rocks. They soon become Kyle's biggest
supporters, though.
75 10 "I'm Talking to You" December 4, 1998
Skye is ignored when he asks to use a video game so he assumes the girl is being mean. Then he
discovers that she didn't hear him because she is deaf. After he learns some sign language, he
realizes he has found a new friend. Nuzzle gets interrupted from his nap by Sizzle trying to catch a
butterfly. Julie, Ben, and Jody do not appear in this episode.
Guest star: Marlee Matlin as herself, Marlo Lovitch, Sheena McFeely
Note: This episode does not feature an original song.
Broadcast
Besides the PBS stations in the United States, the series also aired on TV Cultura in Brazil, Discovery
Kids in Latin America, RTP in Portugal, Kids Station in Japan, Israeli Educational Television in Israel,
GMTV in the UK, and ABC Kids in Australia.
Home media
During its launch, Sony Wonder (and later KidVision) released The Puzzle Place on VHS. There are
currently no plans to release it on DVD.
Tuned In (10. Spud Buds and 14. Cute is as Cute Does)

Rock Dreams (18. Mad Music Magic and 8. Rock Dreams)
Rip Van Wrinkle (17. Going by the Book and 3. Rip Van Wrinkle)
Accentuate the Positive (6. Rudy One and 4. Accentuate the Positive)
Deck The Halls
Sing-Along Songs
Reception
In the weeks after its debut, The Puzzle Place won a great deal of acclaim and "enjoyed an average
audience-per-viewing second only to Barney and Friends among shows in the popular PBS daily
children's block."[2] It received a citation of excellence from UNIMA-USA for its use of puppetry.[3] In
1997, ten more episodes of the show were "in the works".[4] Toys "R" Us, Sears, and Payless
ShoeSource all announced that they would carry merchandising from the series and showcase that
merchandise in its own separate "boutique" rather than integrating it with the other products.[5]
See also
Barney & Friends
Sesame Street
Dragon Tales
Between the Lions
Lamb Chop's Play-Along
The Magic School Bus
Kidsongs
Wishbone
References
1. "Acclaimed Hollywood screenwriter Wesley Strick to adapt Lancit's Maniac Magee for Disney
Feature Film; Writer of Cape Fear and Wolf tackles Newbery Medal-Winning book as "A Gift for
my Kids" (https://web.archive.org/web/20130604230711/http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Acclaimed+
Hollywood+screenwriter+Wesley+Strick+to+adapt+Lancit's...-a015952563). Business Wire.
December 21, 1994. Archived from the original (http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Acclaimed+Hollywo
od+screenwriter+Wesley+Strick+to+adapt+Lancit's...-a015952563) on June 4, 2013. Retrieved
August 13, 2021 – via The Free Dictionary.
2. "Lancit Media sees domestic "Puzzle Place" licensing guarantees approaching $12 million; CEO
reports "highly promising" early ratings for Lancit/KCET Series at Alex. Brown
Media/Communications seminar in NYC" (http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0EIN/is_1995_Apr
il_4/ai_16769498). BNET. CNET Networks, Inc. Business Wire. April 4, 1995. Retrieved June 25,
2008.
3. "Citations of Excellence Recipients (1996) RECORDED MEDIA CATEGORY" (https://web.archive.
org/web/20080515072047/http://www.unima-usa.org/citations/96recorded.html). UNIMA-USA.
Archived from the original (http://unima-usa.org/citations/96recorded.html) on May 15, 2008.
Retrieved June 25, 2008.
4. Michaelson, Judith (September 5, 1997). "KCET Chief Leads Station Into Expansion Era" (http://ar
ticles.latimes.com/1997/sep/05/entertainment/ca-28967). Los Angeles Times. Archived (https://we
b.archive.org/web/20121007235035/http://articles.latimes.com/1997/sep/05/entertainment/ca-289
67) from the original on October 7, 2012. Retrieved February 6, 2009.
5. "PBS' The Puzzle Place has apparel solved". Discount Store News. 34 (16). August 21, 1995.
ISSN 0012-3587 (https://www.worldcat.org/issn/0012-3587). ProQuest 228443836 (https://search.
proquest.com/docview/228443836).
External links
The Puzzle Place (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0179042/) at IMDb
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The Puzzle Place - Wikipedia

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3/25/23, 4:00 PM The Puzzle Place - Wikipedia

On April 3, 2000, Between the Lions replaced it on the

He wears dreadlocks, gets jealous easily, and sometimes Production

1 1 "Tippy Woo" January 16, 1995

Featured song: “It’s My Name,” performed by Julie and the kids

2 2 "Train Driving Kids" January 17, 1995

Featured song: “I Can Do Anything,” performed by the kids

3 3 "Rip Van Wrinkle" January 18, 1995

Featured song: “Kumbaya,” performed by Vaneese Thomas

4 4 "Accentuate the Positive" January 19, 1995

Featured song: “Small World,” performed by Kiki and the kids

5 5 "Gotta Dance" January 20, 1995

Guest stars: Nia Peeples and Fred Kelly as themselves

Featured song: “Cha-Cha,” performed by the kids

6 6 "Rudy One" January 23, 1995

Guest star: Mark Nizer as Ben's cousin Mark

8 8 "Rock Dreams" January 25, 1995

Guest stars: Red Thunder as themselves

Featured song: “Anticipate,” performed by Leon

10 10 "Spud Buds" January 27, 1995

11 11 "Different Drummer" January 30, 1995

12 12 "I Love Kiki" January 31, 1995

Featured song: “I Think I’ll Do It,” performed by Kiki

13 13 "True Colors" February 1, 1995

14 14 "Cute Is as Cute Does" February 2, 1995

15 15 "Leon’s Pizza" February 3, 1995

Featured song: “Pizza,” performed by the kids

16 16 "Real Heroes" February 6, 1995

Guest star: Robert Townsend

17 17 "Going by the Book" February 7, 1995

18 18 "Mad Music Magic" February 8, 1995

19 19 "Party of One" February 9, 1995

20 20 "Dancing Dragon" February 10, 1995

Featured song: “Dancing Dragon,” performed by the kids

21 21 "Picture Perfect" February 13, 1995

Featured song: “My Glasses,” performed by an uncredited session singer

22 22 "Maiden Voyages" February 14, 1995

23 23 "Donuts and Dithering" February 15, 1995

Featured song: “It’s Up to You,” performed by the kids

24 24 "Bully for Jody" February 16, 1995

Guest stars: Sinbad as himself, Ben Ryan Ganger as the bully

25 25 "Ben’s Bad Hair Day" February 17, 1995

Ben attempts to change his “boring” hairstyle with disastrous results.

Featured song: “Hair,” performed by Ben and the kids.

26 26 "All Weather Friends" February 20, 1995

Featured song: “Children of the Earth,” performed by Skye

27 27 "Bread and Matzoh" February 21, 1995

Featured song: “Bread,” performed by the kids

28 28 "Owning It" February 22, 1995

Guest star: Paula Poundstone

29 29 "Baffled Ben" February 23, 1995

30 30 "Practice Makes Perfect" February 24, 1995

31 31 "Finders Keepers" February 27, 1995

32 32 "You Say Potato" February 28, 1995

33 33 "At the End of Our Rope" March 1, 1995

34 34 "Just Kidding" March 2, 1995

35 35 "Everything in Its Place" March 3, 1995

Kiki makes plans to clean the place, but it doesn’t go as planned.

36 36 "Big Boys Don’t Cry" March 6, 1995

Featured song: “Let Them Show,” performed by Porter Carroll, Jr.

37 37 "Here’s to the Winners" March 7, 1995

Guest star: Justin Lord

38 38 "A World of Difference" March 8, 1995