As reported on The Crime Report, Sesame Workshop has created a new blue-haired Muppet, Alex, whose father is in jail. Alex does not appear on televised Sesame Street episodes, but is featured in a tool kit for children with incarcerated parents.
Sesame Workshop began distributing the tool kit in June 2013. The tool kit, aimed at children ages 3 to 8, is called “Little Children, Big Challenges: Incarceration.” It includes a DVD, parents’ and caregivers’ guide, and children’s storybook.
The program is being piloted in 10 states, including New York, Florida, and Texas. The tool kit materials are being distributed to correctional facilities and community organizations. The materials are also available on the Sesame Workshop’s website.
The tool kit provides parents and caregivers with information on how to talk with a young child about issues surrounding a parent in jail or prison. Among other things, it addresses (1) techniques to help the child feel more secure, (2) advice for how to approach a child who is acting out, and (3) what happens when the parent returns.
The program is funded by private and public partnerships.
Citing data from a 2010 Pew Center study, The Crime Report article notes that more than 2.7 million children have an incarcerated parent.
