In 1969, Sesame Workshop’s founders Joan Ganz Cooney and Lloyd Morrisett asked a single bold question. Could television—the newest technology at the time—be used to educate kids? With a diverse cast, a research-based curriculum, and some instantly-iconic characters, Sesame Street sought to answer that question—and it changed children’s television forever.
Set on a city street modeled after the ones that millions of children around the United States called home, Sesame Street showed that whether you’re a child, adult, monster, grouch, or even an eight-foot-tall yellow canary, there was a place for you. Sesame Street was your neighborhood. The popularity and impact of the show grew rapidly, as soon other countries clamored for their own versions of Sesame Street and wanted to bring its furry, fuzzy, and feathered friends to children around the world. From Brazil’s Vila Sésamo to Germany’s Sesamstrasse, South Africa’s Takalani Sesame to Ahlan Simsim across the Middle East and more, international co-productions flourished. Sesame Street grew to become the longest street in the world, now reaches children in more than 150 countries.
Sesame Street’s unique approach of combining education with entertainment has been a staple of the production for its over 50-year history. From day one, the show has been intertwined with American popular culture, featuring celebrity guest stars including actors, politicians, and athletes, parodies of classic songs, movies, and television shows, and catchy music inspired by the current hits. Wherever the country goes, Sesame Street is right beside it, with fun surprises for both young and young at heart viewers.
Sesame Street’s commitment to education and preparing children for the world around them is unmatched. From its early development through present day, leaders in childhood education and psychology are an integral part of the show’s backbone and writing team. Never talking down to the viewer, Sesame Street developed a “whole child” curriculum that not only prepares children for school, but also puts them on a path to become lifelong learners. The show addresses a full range of educational lessons and emotional development for children, including letters and numbers, healthy habits, self-expression, regulating emotions, empathy, friendship, diversity, and so much more. Whether you are a long-time viewer who remembers Big Bird calling Mr. Hooper “Mr. Looper,” or are a new viewer just now meeting Elmo and his puppy Tango, Sesame Street is your street, and every day, is a sunny day.
To learn more about Seasame Street, please visit sesamestreet.org