America's Awesome Kids
This is exactly the PBS Kids live-action mini-documentary series from GBH your note mentions, produced to celebrate America's 250th anniversary and part of the 'PBS Kids Across America' initiative. Each of the 25 roughly five-minute episodes follows a real child ages 4–8 in their hometown, spotlighting hobbies, community pride, and local culture with a warm, upbeat tone and zero conflict.
A perfect fit for curious preschoolers and early-elementary kids who love meeting new people and learning about the world around them.
Episodes to know about
Bright festive lights and rapid visual activity in parade and performance segments may be worth a heads-up for children sensitive to flashing or strobing imagery.
Each short ends with a child inviting viewers to explore their own community, making these great conversation-starters about what kids love about their own neighborhoods.