Common Sense Networks—a for-profit affiliate of nonprofit media org Common Sense Media—is getting into the content game with the launch of its own children’s over-the-top (OTT) streaming network.

Rolling out early 2021, Sensical is a free ad-supported service that will be available as an app through iOS and Android devices, smart TVs and streaming devices. It’s initially launching in the US, before heading to additional territories throughout the year.

Sensical will launch with 15,000 short-form videos, and there are plans to add thousands of new titles each month. To support these ambitious plans, the OTT platform is actively looking for more content to add to its growing catalogue.

Sensical will feature shows for two to 12s, including Bakugan (pictured), Operation Ouch, Cloudbabies, Oddbods, Maya the Bee, The Wiggles, Molang, The Aquabats, Super Simple Songs, It’s a Big Big World and Kitty is Not a Cat. 

Content from companies including Jetpack Distribution, Boat Rocker Studios, Nelvana, 9 Story Distribution, Sesame Workshop, Skyshop Entertainment, Sockeye Media, Whistle, One Animation, Serious Lunch and ZooMoo Networks will also be available on the platform.

The library is split into three categories: preschoolers (two to four), little kids (five to seven) and big kids (eight to 12). The service also features a space where parents can review and manage their kids’ viewing activity, and it will offer reports on what they’re watching and how that content tackles social, emotional and cognitive development.

Eric Berger is heading up Sensical as CEO of Common Sense Networks, which was set up in August.

Common Sense is launching the OTT channel to fill a gap for content and services that have a positive impact on kid development and learning amid the current proliferation of new platforms and streamers, according to a release. Sensical is the first venture in a portfolio of family-friendly content platforms, services and content development efforts that Common Sense Networks is planning to unveil in the new year.

Jumping into the streaming wars is a big shift for Common Sense, which made its name as a site that rates and reviews kids and family programming. The organization also provides research on child development, and evaluates content with a youth safety and privacy filter.

A number of kidcos have been rushing to launch their own branded OTT channels as a way to increase discoverability, maintain control of their content, and build a brand in a fully customizable environment. MGA, Genius Brands and Pocket.watch are a few of the companies to get into the space recently, and Spanish broadcaster and producer Planeta Junior launched its new AVOD KIDZ platform this month.