MeetJulia‘s family!
Sesame Streetannounced Monday that it will introduce viewers to the loved ones of their character Julia, who has autism, in honor ofAutism Awareness Month.
The creative gang includes Julia’s older brother Sam, her mom (who is an art teacher), her dad (who plays the saxophone) and her pup, Rose.
“We know families that have children on the spectrum, they face unique challenges. But more importantly, there’s so much they share,”Sesame Workshop‘s Senior Vice President for U.S. Social Impact, Jeanette Betancourt, toldGood Morning Americaabout the initiative.
According toGood Morning America, Julia’sSesame Streetpals had lots to say about what they’ve learned from her in the two years since she joined the show.
Julia and her family onSesame Street.RICHARD TERMINE/Sesame Workshop
“Julia has autism,” said Elmo,GMAreports. “And that makes Julia different … But it’s really cool that everybody’s a little bit different but same, too. And Elmo and Julia have a lot in common, and wehave a lot of fun together.”
GMAstates that Julia’s brother Sam told the outlet “just because” his sister “doesn’t respond — doesn’t mean she doesn’t want to be friends,” and noted that “it may take a few tries to get to know Julia.”
Sesame Workshop’s President of Global Impact and Philanthropy, Sherrie Westin, said in a statement provided toGMAthat they are “thrilledto expand Julia’s worldwith her parents, big brother and her adorable dog, Rose, in our new resources.”
“Children with autism often face unique challenges, as do their parents and siblings. But every family faces challenges of some sort, which is why we are focusing on what all families have in common,” she added.
“In a family, everyone has different roles, challenges and strengths, and everyone can learn from one another,” Westin said.
source: people.com
