Watch and Play: Cookie Monster’s Big Puzzle
Watch this episode and explore ways to extend the learning at home.
In the Sesame Street episode Cookie Monster’s Big Puzzle (available now on Netflix and PBSKIDS), Cookie Monster wants to give Elmo his favorite cookie but Elmo tells him he doesn’t want a cookie because he ate a big lunch and is full. Cookie Monster is surprised, who wouldn’t want a cookie?! Cookie Monster thinks he needs to bake the right kind of cookie to change Elmo’s mind, but each time he presents Elmo with a different kind of cookie he declines. Cookie Monster just isn’t listening and Elmo becomes frustrated.
Fortunately, Tamir helps Cookie Monster realize that he wasn’t recognizing what Elmo wanted, especially when Tamir offers Cookie Monster a giant cookie himself and Cookie Monster declines because he isn’t hungry either. Cookie Monster quickly realizes his mistake and apologizes to Elmo, promising to listen more carefully next time.
Preschoolers can often struggle with listening skills and understanding the needs of others. Developing social awareness and understanding that people have different reactions to the same experience takes time and practice.
Just like Cookie Monster, some children may unintentionally push their own wants, needs, and thoughts onto others, despite good intention and the desire to be kind. Help your preschooler notice body language and facial expressions to identify how others are feeling. Encourage your preschoolers to listen carefully to others by making eye contact and using their whole body to listen.
Check out the resources below to help your little one become a good listener and to build caring relationships with others.
Watch and Play Together Activities
Whole-Body Listening
Whether children are interacting with others on a screen or in person, you can help them build their ability to focus, concentrate, and block out background noise and other distractions by helping them practice whole-body listening.
Mindful Monsters: Whole-Body Listening with Elmo
In this podcast, Elmo practices whole-body listening.
Find this episode on Netflix, PBS Kids or Nationwide Public Television (Check local listings).
Creating Safety and a Sense of Home
Cookie Monster’s Beach Day
When children are in the hospital, their imagination can become a valuable tool in soothing themselves.
Monster Meltdown
Meltdowns happen… but they are somewhat predictable! As you try to handle them, curiosity and patience go a long way.
Toddler Tips: Meltdowns
Strategies for during and after a meltdown…and even some ways meltdowns might be avoided.
Listen, Feel, and See with Elmo
When children are in the hospital, this mindfulness game can help them soothe themselves.
Using Your Words
A coloring page helping children explore words for big feelings.
