The Backyardigans is an animated TV series for children ages two to five. The show's three main characters use their vivid imaginations to turn their backyard into a wonderland of adventures. Rich with singing and dancing, the show is popular for its edutainment value.

In looking to present Fisher-Price, the leading pre-school toy manufacturer, with a viable new toy concept, IDEO developed and prototyped the lively Backyardigans 3-in-1 Adventure Singers. Based on the TV show, the Backyardigans designs combine the softness and tactility of plush toys with automatic animated vocals. These vocals are novel in their controls, triggered by subtle changes made to the character's clothing—adjust the toy's shirt or dress to change its adventure theme and accompanying vocalization. Children can easily manipulate the character's clothes to instantly change its look and speech or song.