Washy Washy

Sesame Street has launched brand new content to help families stay physically and mentally healthy as the coronavirus pandemic continues. As part of their Caring for Each Other initiative (SesameStreet.org/caring), the content includes a new Elmo "Washy Wash" song, as well as Sesame Street Muppets learning how to sneeze properly and how caring for yourself means caring for each other.

Like many children and families, the beloved Sesame Street Muppets and friends are spending time at home and connecting with friends and family virtually. New messages of love, kindness, and fun will be posted on a regular basis on Sesame Street social media channels, including Snack Time with Cookie Monster, Singalong with Elmo, Move & Groove with Abby Cadabby and Grover, and Story Time with Alan.

"Sesame Street is there for children and families whether it's a sunny day or a stormy one, and unfortunately many families are facing unprecedented challenges right now," said Dr. Jeanette Betancourt, Senior Vice President of US Social Impact, Sesame Workshop.

"Through Caring for Each Other, we're committed to supporting families for the duration of this crisis and beyond"equipping them with the tools they need to get through this together and look to the future with hope and optimism."

The new animated spots will be distributed through a wide range of partners in the US and globally, including ABCKids and YouTube. They will be available in the coming days in languages including English, Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, Bangla, Dutch, Dari, German, Hausa, Hebrew, Hindi, Japanese, Kurdish, Mandarin, Pashto, Portuguese, Rohingya, and Somali, Swahili, and additional dialects.

Additional tools debuting today on SesameStreet.org/caring include coping strategies, child-friendly explanations to tough questions, and ways to help everyone stay healthy. Also included are self-care tips for caregivers: as grownups try to adjust to their "for now normal," it's important that they take care of themselves so that they can best care for their children.

The Caring for Each Other initiative was launched last week in response to the unprecedented uncertainty facing young children and families. SesameStreet.org/caring will be updated to meet the needs of families as the situation evolves on an ongoing basis, with resources designed to help parents provide comfort and manage anxiety, as well as help with creating routines, fostering playful learning at home, and staying physically and mentally healthy. Families can also watch Sesame Street episodes on ABCKids. Additionally, over 110 free Sesame Street ebooks are available on all major ebook platforms.