When Sesame Street introduced a new muppet character – a girl named Julia who has autism, it brought attention to a widespread but little understood condition. According to our research, nearly two thirds of Americans (63%) are aware of the autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and a third know someone who has been diagnosed with ASD. Yet families with children diagnosed with ASD experience stigma and isolation on a daily basis.
Julia: Sesame Street Autism Initiative
About This Project
The Sesame Street initiative made a strong case that even the youngest children — with or without autism — can be inclusive and understanding of each other. And it celebrated diversity by inviting us all to “See Amazing in All Children.” We are proud to have partnered with Sesame Workshop on measuring the reach of this important initiative.
We conducted a cross-sectional study to measure the reach and impact of the initiative on the general public and parents of children with ASD.
One in two adult Americans (53%) have heard of Julia and the Sesame Street Autism Initiative. Reactions to the initiative have been overwhelmingly positive. It has prompted nearly one in four U.S. adults to discuss the initiative or its messages with family members and friends.