Building on its launch last week of the Caring for Each Other initiative, Sesame Workshop is rolling out new content to help families stay physically and mentally healthy as the coronavirus pandemic continues.
Today’s release on SesameStreet.org/caring includes animations on healthy habits, resources providing comfort, and activities that caregivers can use to spark learning in areas like reading, math, science, and more. The animated spots – which will be available in 19 languages – include Elmo’s new Washy Wash song, as well as Sesame Street Muppets learning how to sneeze properly.
New messages of love, kindness, and fun will be posted on a regular basis on Sesame Street social media channels, including Snack Time with Cookie Monster, Singalong with Elmo, Move & Groove with Abby Cadabby and Grover, and Story Time with Alan.
“Sesame Street is there for children and families whether it’s a sunny day or a stormy one, and unfortunately many families are facing unprecedented challenges right now,” said Dr. Jeanette Betancourt, senior vice president of US social impact, Sesame Workshop.
“Through Caring for Each Other, we’re committed to supporting families for the duration of this crisis and beyond – equipping them with the tools they need to get through this together and look to the future with hope and optimism.”
The new animated spots will be distributed through a wide range of partners in the US and globally, including HBO, PBS KIDS and local PBS stations, Univision, the Ad Council, YouTube, Sesame Street in Communities partners, and international broadcast partners.
They will be available in the coming days in languages including English, Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, Bangla, Dutch, Dari, German, Hausa, Hebrew, Hindi, Japanese, Kurdish, Mandarin, Pashto, Portuguese, Rohingya, Somali, Swahili, and additional dialects.
“As families around the world adjust to their new realities, parents and caregivers are looking for help in creating new routines, staying healthy, and fostering learning at home,” said Dr. Rosemarie Truglio, senior vice president of curriculum and content, Sesame Workshop.
“At Sesame Workshop, we’re here to support the caring adults in children’s lives as they help their children navigate these challenging times.”
The Caring for Each Other initiative was launched last week in response to the unprecedented uncertainty facing young children and families. SesameStreet.org/caring will be updated to meet the needs of families as the situation evolves on an ongoing basis, with resources designed to help parents provide comfort and manage anxiety, as well as help with creating routines, fostering playful learning at home, and staying physically and mentally healthy.
