Recently, my "On This Day" daily email popped up that on November 10, 1969, Sesame Street premiered on PBS. Besides realizing this television show is almost as old as I am, I started thinking about the effect Sesame Street had on several different levels: learning, community, environment. So I started a search.
When you think about it, this one television show has taught generations of children to read, count, be compassionate, appreciate their community.
In their research article “Early Childhood Education by Television: Lessons from Sesame Street,” economists Melissa Kearney and Phillip Levine of the University of Maryland and Wellesley College, respectively, found that kids who had early or easy access to the program performed better in elementary schools in comparison to those who were older when it began airing or lived in places it wasn’t available. Preschool-aged children who were able to watch the show were more likely to start school on time and progress through grades at the appropriate ages. Children who had the ability to attend pre-K saw the same results, making Sesame Street a more accessible and affordable option for children who lived in economically disadvantaged areas.
Sesame Street’s approach of directly addressing the child during the show is another way the program has been able to impact children so significantly. Research has shown that children largely learn in a participatory manner.
“The way they … learn most effectively is when you engage with them directly so that they have the feeling that they’re participating in something larger, that they’re having a conversation with the person,” according to Henrike Moll.
I've realized that when I was in that three to five year old age range, there weren't pre-schools. Children turned five and went to Kindergarten for a couple of hours every day. This experience was more play and socializing than learning math, reading and science. The path to learning started slowly and not nearly as aggressive as it is today. I honestly didn't become aware of Sesame Street until I became a teenager and two things happened: I started babysitting young children and The Muppet Show began. If you've not listened to Kermit the Frog's "It's Not Easy Being Green" lately, do it right now! The simplicity of the message of accepting who you are is just amazing.
 |
There's even a on-line quiz that asks which Sesame Street character are you like? Here's the breakdown of each:
Big Bird
Our feathery friend Big Bird is known for his bright yellow plumage and big heart. He’s an 8-foot-tall, 6-year-old bird who’s always curious and eager to learn new things. With his kind and gentle nature, Big Bird is always ready to lend a helping hand or offer a comforting hug to his friends on Sesame Street.
Elmo
Elmo, the adorable red monster with the infectious giggle, has captured the hearts of millions with his childlike enthusiasm and wonder. This 3-and-a-half-year-old Muppet is all about exploring the world, asking questions, and having fun. Elmo’s boundless energy and cheerful disposition make him the perfect companion for any adventure.
Cookie Monster
Cookie Monster is a lovable, blue, furry monster with an insatiable appetite for cookies! He’s a fun-loving character who’s always up for a good time, but he also knows the importance of sharing and kindness. His obsession with cookies is only rivaled by his love for his friends.
Oscar the Grouch
Oscar the Grouch is the resident curmudgeon on Sesame Street. Living in a trash can, he has a grumpy disposition and a sarcastic sense of humor. But despite his prickly exterior, Oscar has a soft spot for his friends. He has even been known to show a kinder side occasionally.
Grover
Grover, the furry blue Muppet with a heart of gold, is always eager to help others and solve problems. With his boundless optimism and determination, Grover often takes on various personas, such as “Super Grover,” to save the day. His enthusiasm and love for adventure make him an endearing character to fans of all ages.
Find the quiz here.
It's been said that Sesame Street has been successful for so many years because of just that: the simplicity of understanding that learning happens in the midst of life and positive human interactions. Let's all turn the channel to PBS and be amazed by this treasure that has lasted so many years.
