SHOWS FOR YOUNGSTERS AND THEIR PARENTS TOO : All about pigs on PBS ‘Nature’ series; new ‘Dexter’ cartoons; special ‘Sesame Street’

The stars of The Joy of Pigs, premiering on PBS’ “Nature” series in its 15th-anniversary season (KCET, Sunday at 8 p.m.), will never be mistaken for Babe, the endearing pig of the hit movie. Viewers are taken around the globe for a look at exotic wild pigs and learn about the many roles domesticated pigs play in human societies. There are bearded pigs and pigs that resemble deer. The Vietnamese pot-bellied pig can be observed living in glitzy Beverly Hills. For the family.

*

Sesame Street, the educational wonder, launches its 28th season this week (KCET, Monday at 10 a.m.) with a two-part show featuring “ER’s” Noah Wyle as a doctor who helps Gabi deal with fears after her mother, Maria, is hospitalized. In the second part, Gabi, Telly, Big Bird and Lois go to the hospital to visit Maria. For ages 2 to 5.

*

A carjacking on 7th Heaven causes Matt Camden to be afraid of leaving home, while Annie remains unusually normal (WB, Monday at 8 p.m.). Meanwhile, Eric tries to help his family overcome the situation. He must also contend with Lucy and her boyfriend both running for class president and with Mary wanting a tattoo. For ages 7 and up.

*

Dexter’s Laboratory will debut seven new installments (Cartoon Network, Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m.. repeats Saturdays at 6:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. and Sundays at 12:30 p.m.). Each program will pair two “Dexter” shorts with one “Justice Friends” short. “Justice Friends” is a cartoon about three superheroes who have more problems trying to live together than fighting the evil forces of the world. For ages 6 to 11.

*

The unique behavior of animals worldwide is captured in Animals You’ll Never Forget (Disney Channel, Wednesday at 7 p.m.). From the camouflage abilities of turtles, lizards and insects to the sounds made by humpback whales, gibbons and lemurs, the kingdom continues to amaze. For the family.