Landmark kids program marks big anniversary

Sesame Street still has lessons to share, 50 years later

When we think of landmark moments from 1969, one immediately rises to the top — the 50th anniversary of the first manned moon landing.

But there was another moment that was arguably equally as important, and has continued to resonate with generations of children. Sesame Street aired its first episode on Nov. 10, 1969. How many of you remember sitting in front of the television set, learning your ABCs and 123s, all while learning lessons of inclusion and friendship?

The show was created by Joan Ganz Cooney, with the intention of being entertaining, educational, and helping children prepare for kindergarten. The Sesame Street website notes the concept began with a question: “Could television be used to educate kids?”

Cooney joined forces with Jim Henson to create iconic Muppets like Bert and Ernie, Oscar the Grouch, Grover and Big Bird. The Muppets provided a great venue for education, in tandem with a team that isn’t afraid to tackle tough issues.

Today, it has grown and evolved. Sesame Street now reaches 150 million children in 150+ countries, with a mission to “help kids everywhere grow smarter, stronger and kinder,” the Sesame Street website notes.

The show strives to be diverse, teaching children to be open and accepting of others, while at the same time it teaches basic building blocks of education, and health and safety messages, too.

And when there are more weighty issues, Sesame Street has tackled those too, sensitively approaching topics like serious illness, tragedy and death.

“Our Muppets model behaviors that can help change attitudes and cultural norms,” CEO Jeffrey D. Dunn notes.

In 50 years, Sesame Street has taken tremendous strides to break down barriers, share information, and boost children to the next level. And despite the passing of time, the show has managed to keep sight of its target audience, and still remain relevant. There are still many lessons to learn from Sesame Street!

It’s a beautiful place, and it’s amazing that it is celebrating such an amazing milestone this week.

Happy birthday, Sesame Street!

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