Today's word on the street is Autism: Meet Sesame Street’s Julia!

Today Sesame Street introduced us to Elmo's friend Julia, who has autism. Julia is part of the Sesame Street and Autism: See Amazing in All Children initiative. 

This initiative aims to increase understanding of autism and to reduce stigma and isolation often experienced by children with autism and their families.

The unique quality and talents of all children are celebrated and the commonalities that children with autism share with all children are emphasised.

There are excellent resources available on the Sesame Street website for families and carers of young children to assist with the challenges of daily living.  

What you will discover:

• Videos: Including the catchy The Amazing Song that young children are sure to enjoy; stories about individual children with autism; and support for parents.
• Daily routine sequences: Sesame Street characters help children learn the different steps involved in routines such as Brushing your teeth, Going to a restaurant, Trying a new food and Morning routine.
• A narrated storybook featuring Julia: The story emphasises the similarities between Julia and Elmo, as well as differences such as her sensory sensitivities, verbal communication, and play interests. Elmo provides a simple explanation of autism to Abby Cadabby when she is confused by Julia’s behaviour.  
• Additional resources for friends, parents and siblings, as well as tips on what to say to a parent of a child with autism. 

Check out the song below!

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