Meaning: Annette Funicello was an American actress and singer who became famous as a Mouseketeer on the original Mickey Mouse Club television show in the 1950s. The quote "Animation did not become the dominant form of children's television until the '60s" reflects her observation about the evolution of children's television programming during that era.

In the early years of television, children's programming was dominated by live-action shows, often featuring hosts who interacted with young viewers or presented educational content. However, the 1960s marked a significant shift in the landscape of children's television, with animated programming gaining prominence and becoming a staple of the genre.

One of the key factors that contributed to the rise of animation in children's television during the 1960s was the success of animated series such as "The Flintstones" and "The Jetsons." These shows, produced by Hanna-Barbera Productions, demonstrated the potential of animation to engage and entertain young audiences, leading to a surge in the production of animated content for television.

The technological advancements in animation also played a crucial role in its increasing popularity. As the decade progressed, improvements in animation techniques and production methods made it more feasible to create high-quality animated series for television. This allowed for the development of a wide range of animated shows that catered to the diverse interests of children, from action-adventure and superhero stories to comedy and fantasy.

Furthermore, the appeal of animated characters and storytelling transcended cultural and linguistic barriers, making it easier for these shows to reach global audiences. This universal appeal contributed to the widespread adoption of animated programming as a mainstay of children's television around the world.

The impact of animated programming on children's television during the 1960s was profound and enduring. The success of iconic series such as "The Flintstones" and "The Jetsons" set the stage for a new era of animated storytelling, paving the way for the development of beloved franchises and characters that continue to resonate with audiences to this day.

In conclusion, Annette Funicello's quote encapsulates a significant shift in the landscape of children's television during the 1960s, highlighting the emergence of animation as the dominant form of programming for young viewers. The rise of animated series during this era was driven by factors such as the success of pioneering shows, technological advancements in animation, and the universal appeal of animated storytelling. This transformation not only shaped the trajectory of children's television but also laid the foundation for the enduring legacy of animated programming as a cornerstone of entertainment for generations of young audiences.