Sesame Street has released its first character with autism named Julia. The new character is said to be part of Sesame Street and Autism: See Amazing in All Children, the new initiative of Sesame Workshop.
According to ew.com [Entertainment Weekly], Dr. Jeanette Betancourt, senior vice president of U.S. social impact, said "Children with autism are five times more likely to get bullied. Our goal is bring forth what all children share in common, not their differences."
The campaign is directed to communities with children ages 2 to 5 and give them ways to get over common difficulties and make everyday activities simpler. The project also aims to build an "affirming narrative around autism for all families and kids."
Sherrie Westin, executive vice president of global impacts and philanthropy, said "We want parents and children to understand that autism isn't an uncomfortable topic. We want to create greater awareness and empathy."
Julia, a digital character, will be part of the campaign's videos, story books, free apps, all of which explains autism from a child's point of view who has an autism.
Dr. Betancourt also added "When we explain from a child's point of view that there are certain behaviors, such as slapping their hands or making noises, to express excitement or unhappiness, it helps younger children to understand how to interact with their autistic peers. It makes children more comfortable and therefore more inclusive."
According to people.com, Sesame Street's See Amazing in All Children aims to reduce "the stigma of autism."
Dr. Betancourt said "Children with autism are five times more likely to get bullied. And with one in 68 children having autism, that's a lot of bullying. Our goal is to bring forth what all children share in common, not their differences. Children with autism share in the joy of playing and loving and being friends and being part of a group."
"Families with autistic children tend to gravitate toward digital content, which is why we created Julia digitally," Dr. Betancourt added.
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