“Sesame Street” Rolls Out Adorable New Videos to Help Military Kids Handle Deployments and Moves

Sesame Street Launches Heartwarming Videos to Support Military Children

Sesame Street, in partnership with the Department of Defense, has introduced a series of delightful videos aimed at assisting military children in handling various challenges such as deployments and relocations. The initiative, titled “Healthy, Happy, Ready,” offers free digital resources that feature beloved Sesame Street characters like Elmo, guiding children and caregivers through the emotional rollercoaster of military life.

Life for children in military families can be uniquely challenging, with frequent deployments, sudden reassignments, and the uncertainties that come with it. Recognizing these struggles, Sesame Street has taken a proactive step by providing valuable tools tailored to the needs of military families. The videos depict scenarios that military children commonly face, offering practical advice and emotional support to help them navigate these difficult situations.

One of the featured videos, “Getting Ready for Temporary Duty,” follows Elmo as he grapples with his father’s National Guard deployment, leading to the heartbreaking moment of missing his first T-ball game. Elmo’s father, portrayed as understanding and supportive, acknowledges his son’s feelings and explains the concept of courage in facing challenges as a family. The video aims to teach children resilience and the importance of supporting one another during challenging times.

In another video titled “Coming Home,” Elmo shares his anticipation and excitement about his father’s return, expressing his eagerness to engage in various activities together. Through Elmo’s emotional journey, the video highlights the significance of looking forward to special moments with loved ones and cherishing the time spent together. The message resonates with children who experience the absence of a parent due to military obligations.

For almost two decades, Sesame Street has been a steadfast partner for military families, addressing a wide range of topics including deployments, homecomings, relocations, and coping with loss. Through initiatives like these videos, Sesame Street continues to provide valuable resources and emotional support to children in military households, helping them navigate the complexities of military life with resilience and positivity.

Recent studies have underscored the importance of such interventions, with research showing that military youth are more likely to experience anxiety disorders compared to their peers. The implementation of targeted programs like “Healthy, Happy, Ready” is crucial in supporting the mental health and well-being of military children, offering them tools to cope with the unique challenges they face on a day-to-day basis.

In a statement by Dr. Jeanette Betancourt, Senior Vice President for U.S. Social Impact at Sesame Workshop, the initiative is described as an empowering platform for parents and children to cultivate healthy routines and shared activities that strengthen their bond throughout their service journey and beyond. By fostering meaningful connections and providing emotional guidance, Sesame Street continues to be a source of comfort and support for military families around the world.

The collaboration between Sesame Street and the Department of Defense serves as a testament to the ongoing commitment to providing valuable resources and support for military families. Through engaging and insightful content, these videos aim to empower children, instill resilience, and foster a sense of community among military families facing unique challenges.