Introducing Sesame Street’s Julia

There is a new neighbor on Sesame Street! The newest muppet created by Sesame Workshop is Julia, a preschool girl with autism. Julia is described as a girl who “does things a little differently.” The character invention comes one year after Sesame Workshop partnered with Autism Speaks to raise awareness and to help educate families. Not only can you see Julia on the Sesame Street television program, but parents and caregivers can also go online, or download the app, to receive helpful tools and advice caring for children with autism.

Just as a young child is beginning to walk and function by themselves, one of the most trying experiences for a parent is to be told that their child may be on the autism spectrum.  Unfortunately, there is a rise in the number of parents that are faced with this issue.  One in every 68 children in the US is diagnosed as being on the spectrum for autism. What does being on the spectrum mean? Autism Speaks defines it as, “having exceptional abilities in visual skills, music and academic skills.” About 40 percent have intellectual disability (IQ less than 70), and many have normal to above average intelligence. Indeed, many individuals on the spectrum take pride in their distinctive abilities and “atypical” ways of viewing the world. Others with autism have significant disability and are unable to live independently. About 25 percent of individuals with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) are nonverbal but can learn to communicate using other means.

             Julia is not only a character. She is a learning tool. Julia inspires feelings of understanding, compassion, acceptance, and determination. Sesame Street believes that this new character will “reduce stigma, and demonstrate the commonalities that children with Autism share with all children.”