Sesame Street Announces a New Autistic Character

Elmo has a new friend!

In a new initiative with Autism Speaks, the producers of Sesame Street have unveiled a new character who is on the Autism Spectrum. Julia, the new character with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) will be moving in with Elmo and Abby Cadabby and become a regular on the show.

The new character will be hope to change perspectives and increase tolerance of the disorder, which is often misunderstood by other young people and results in traumatic experiences.

In 2012, a study by the Interactive Autism Network found that a total of 63% of children aged 6-10 with ASD, had been bullied at some point in their lives. Hopefully with the inclusion of Julia these statistics can be decreased.

Sesame Street started in 1969 and has done many great things to chance perspectives of kids throughout the world.

Elmo is always up a bit of fun so Sesame Street fans can expect a good time!

Image source: Autism Speaks