Sesame Street helps families affected by autism cope with the coronavirus pandemic

Wearing a mask to prevent the spread of coronavirus can be a challenge for children and adults with autism. Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit organization behind “Sesame Street,” is launching brand new videos and resources featuring Julia, a 4-year-old Sesame Street Muppet with autism, to help autistic children and their families cope with some of the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic.

The resources, available for free in English and Spanish on Sesame Street, are designed to help families adapt and create routines, build flexibility, and cope with the challenges of living in the time of COVID-19, like having to wear masks and learning to understand physical distancing. The resources released include videos, books, articles and stories that include strategies for caregivers and parent to help children cope with and even embraces changes in their routines.

“We know that children with autism and their families are experiencing unique challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic and that schedules, routines, and guidelines can change with little warning,” Dr. Jeanette Betancourt, Senior Vice President of US Social Impact, Sesame Workshop, said.

“The new resources are designed to help families manage unexpected circumstances, familiarize children with important new behaviors like wearing masks, and incorporate practical strategies into their day-to-day lives—all with a little help from Julia.”

The initiative was developed in consultation with over 250 organizations and experts within the autism community.

Source: Sesame Workshop, Disability Insider