As always, we can count on our beloved favorite to deliver and be on the frontlines to help children (and adults) understand the complexities of life. This is no exception. “Sesame Street” has added a new cast member, Julia, to the gang.
Julia is autistic. Why is that important? Well, research shows one in 68 children will be born with autistic spectrum syndrome (ASD) according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. With the numbers rapidly increasing, chances are you or someone you know is affected by this condition.
Behind the statistic and numbers are people — children and families. The rate for boys affected are 1 in 42, almost 4.5 times higher than that for girls. ASD was once unexplored and many children were misdiagnosed or thought to be unintelligent. That is just not the case. Research now shows that isn’t the case. Over half of the children diagnosed have average or above average IQ’s. Education early on is important for both the child and the public. Bravo “Sesame Street”!
Kids are more open-minded and accepting than adults, and it is important to educate them early that children with autism are wonderful and have a place in this world. “Sesame Street” recognizes this and helps integrate this knowledge and research with a dose of fuzzy love. In a report from CNN, Elmo has this to say:
“Elmo’s daddy told Elmo that Julia has autism. So she does things a little differently. Sometimes Elmo talks to Julia using fewer words and says the same thing a few times.”
Growing up on the “Street” myself, I learned so much from that show. I raised my son and daughter with the help of “Sesame Street” and so have millions of other families. Now that HBO made their deal with the show, millions more families will be able to continue that tradition for generations to come.
Enjoy some classic “Sesame Street” and take a walk down memory lane. You’re welcome!
Featured image by Ben+Sam, available under Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial license.
