A television icon is “sweepin’ the clouds away” for children coping with separation from military parents.
Elmo from PBS’s Sesame Street teaches young viewers the rudimentary details of military leave. The programming, which includes online videos and activities, was released on Sept. 23.
“When a parent serves, the whole family serves — that’s something military kids can be proud of,” said Jeanette Betancourt, Sesame Workshop’s senior vice president of U.S. social impact, in a statement. “At Sesame Workshop, we appreciate that service, and, with these new materials, we hope to help military families feel strong and connected whether they’re near or far.”
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While there aren’t too many developmental issues due to parents having temporary military assignments, any disruption to a child’s routine can pose long-term problems behaviorally, said Air Force Capt. Robert Walden, who is also a licensed clinical social worker, according to Stars and Stripes.
“It’s always good to bring more awareness and information to families who may be challenged with [temporary duty travel],” he said.
The Sesame Street website covers topics from routines to everyday health to military homecomings.
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There’s also a section on grief marked as “sensitive content.”
Toward the end of a video after a military death, the characters conclude with an inspiring message as they discuss the loss.
“Well, I know what my dad would want us to do right now,” said a pink-haired, piggy-tailed blue puppet. “Play ball!”
“Oh, boy,” Elmo replied.
“Oh, wait for Elmo!”
