Sesame Workshop Expands its Resources in Celebration of Autism Acceptance Month

(New York, NY April 1, 2026) — Sesame Workshop, the global nonprofit behind Sesame Street, released new resources today in celebration of Autism Acceptance Month. For the last ten years, the Sesame Street and Autism: See Amazing in All Children initiative has provided resources designed to foster social inclusion and kindness. These engaging materials aim to support families, educators, and advocates in creating welcoming environments where every child can thrive.

The new resources highlight the many ways to show kindness and participate meaningfully in a group setting — whether by joining story time in a way that feels comfortable, inviting someone new to play, or simply offering a smile or a helping hand.

“Over the past decade, we’ve seen firsthand how our resources can transform classrooms and communities into authentically inclusive spaces, helping all children better understand one another and build meaningful relationships,” said Dr. Abigail Bucuvalas, Senior Director of Curriculum and Programs in the Global Education Department. “Our commitment extends across the world, bringing these educational experiences rooted in kindness and respect to millions of children worldwide.”

The new suite of materials aim to foster social inclusion in shared spaces, and include four videos, three printables and one informative article, all featuring the Muppets of Sesame Street. These resources, available in both English and Spanish, were developed with input from autism experts and community members to ensure they are accessible, supportive, and relevant to children and adults alike.

• Lots of Ways to Be Kind: Julia and Elmo each have their own way of showing kindness to a new friend! This video models how children can include new classmates or neighbors in play and conversation, showing the power of a warm hello and an open invitation.
• Lots of Ways to Connect: This music video featuring Julia, Elmo, Zoe and their other friends demonstrate that there are many ways to play together and that understanding and patience can help friends connect across differences.
• Lots of Ways to Participate: Julia and Elmo join story time, showing that children can join in group activities, and share joyful moments in their own way, together.
• Friends Help Each Other: Through teamwork and acts of kindness, Elmo helps Julia find her headphones ahead of a fire drill, showing support where it’s needed.

The three printable activities support families and educators in encouraging children to practice friendship skills, celebrate the many ways to play and support different ways of communicating, while the article offers practical tips and insights for adults about fostering social inclusion, understanding autism, and building supportive communities.

To access the new resources, visit sesame.org/autism and learn more about supporting every child’s journey toward friendship and inclusion.

About Sesame Workshop
Sesame Workshop is the global nonprofit behind Sesame Street and so much more. For over 50 years, we have worked at the intersection of education, media, and research, creating joyful experiences that enrich minds and expand hearts, all in service of empowering each generation to build a better world. Our beloved characters, iconic shows, outreach in communities, and more bring playful early learning to families in more than 190 countries and advance our mission to help children everywhere grow smarter, stronger, and kinder. Learn more at www.sesame.org and follow Sesame Workshop on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and X.

Contact
Press@sesame.org