There are several new shows on TV currently or are debuting shortly that feature a character with Autism. Over the next month we will highlight these shows and would love to get your feedback.
First, we are going to talk about Julia, the newest Muppet on Sesame Street who has autism.
The show debuted Julia in April of this year and 60 Minutes did a wonderful segment featuring an interview with writer Christine Ferraro.
Sesame Street, which has been on air for nearly 50 years, has always based its characters and content on extensive research. In the case of Julia, they also worked with autism organizations to decide which characteristics she should have and how best to normalize autism for all children.
Writer Christine Ferraro:
“It’s tricky because autism is not one thing, because it is different for every single person who has autism. There is an expression that goes, “If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism.”
Watch a great clip from Sesame Street:
We would love to hear your thoughts about Julia in general and if you have seen her on Sesame Street over the past few months, how she has impacted your family.
Next, we will look at the upcoming show, Atypical, available for streaming on Netflix on August 11.