Elmo and Friends Visit The Happiness Lab Podcast
A special episode featuring host Dr. Laurie Santos, Sesame Workshop CEO Steve Youngwood, Kay Wilson Stallings, Sesame Workshop's Executive V.P. and Chief Production and Creative Development Officer – and a furry friend
Sesame Workshop’s Steve Youngwood and Kay Wilson Stallings met up with Happiness Lab creator and host Dr. Laurie Santos at the 2023 ASU + GSV Summit, where their live session was recorded for this special episode of the hit podcast. The three discuss the importance of supporting emotional well-being for kids, the value of “starting early,” to help children lay a foundation for lifelong mental health, and the ways media and technology can help, including the content and resources found in Sesame Workshop’s new Emotional Well-Being initiative.
Dr. Santos, Professor of Psychology at Yale University, envisions adapting her collegiate curriculum for the preschool set and shares strategies that parents and caregivers can use to help children – and themselves – feel happier. Everyone’s favorite furry three-and-a-half year old stops by in a surprise appearance to help demonstrate mindfulness techniques including deep, calming belly breaths.
In fall 2023, a three-episode series on The Happiness Lab will spotlight effective happiness strategies to help parents and their children feel better – with the help of the beloved characters and songs of Sesame Street.
Safe & Together
When families have to leave home in order to stay safe, it helps to remember that home is where the love is.
Bubble Time
A quiet activity such as blowing bubbles can help both children and adults breathe deeply, slow down… and calm down.
Crayon Power
Coloring together can soothe both children and grown-ups.
See You Later Alligator
A special, loving good-bye routine can make separations easier.
Friendship Bracelets
When it’s hard to be apart from those we love, the littlest things can become big reminders that someone loves us and is thinking of us.
Cloud Watching
Spending time outside can feel like a “reset” on the day.
Pillow Hugs
Hugging a pillow covered with an item of a loved one’s clothing can help comfort children when they’re missing them.
