Sesame Street, the beloved children’s program, is helping to educate the street on a tough subject matter.
A new character named Karli, who joined the cast of Sesame Street earlier this year, was first introduced on the street as a child in the foster care system. Karli will now share the circumstances of why she’s there through the program’s new parental addiction initiative that can be viewed online. She will be sharing her experience through a child’s eye in hopes to help other children who have dealt with parents who are addicted to drugs and alcohol.
As we all know, the opioid crisis is sweeping the world. Many are overdosing and dying. Thankfully, there are some that are making the life changing decision to get clean by agreeing to go into a treatment facility center. If a person decides to make the wise choice to get clean and they have children, often the children are left in the care of a relative or are forced into foster care.
Children are innocent creatures and when forced to deal with adult issues, many thoughts develop in their brain, leaving them with many questions. No child wants to think something is their fault when their parents make wrong decisions. Often when things arrive to disrupt the daily routine of a child’s life, it leaves them in disarray and the blame game enters their mind.
This is not the first time Sesame Street has taken on a serious subject in order to bring awareness. A few years back they introduced a character Julia, whom had autism. I was so impressed with their openness, I blogged about her. Some topics they bring forth are very controversial that no one wants to talk about. The only way to shed light so others will understand is to talk about it. Life brings about differences some good and some bad.
By Karli showing up on the street, it will give many children who are and aren’t dealing with this issue an outlet to discuss. There’s nothing better than when you’re going through something than knowing there’s someone who understands or at least, will really listen and not pass judgement. I think that’s what is so special about Sesame Street. Its willingness to take on issues that are affecting the world in a way to make it easier for children to understand; this is why the program is so successful and will continue to be for years to come.
My favorite character on Sesame is, Oscar The Grouch! Although, Oscar is perceived to be grouchy, he’s still sweet. Often, we all can be a little grouchy and that’s ok as long as you’re not hurting anyone. Although, I love Oscar, I can’t wait to see Karli make her appearance on the street. It will be interesting to witness what she has to go through. Life can throw you challenges but as long as there’re places we can go that offer assistance, it will get better. I’m thankful to Sesame Street for being one of the places. Welcome Karli to the street.
I can only imagine the thoughts of children when their parents have addictions. As a FOA, we’ve had to share with one, “No, it’s not that your parents don’t love you, it’s that they are not able to take care of you as they best can.” Children can feel deserted and alone. But thanks to caring community and shows such as Sesame Street, we can all lend a helping hand, having compassion and empathy. A fellow parishioners shared at her father’s funeral service, “the first 12 years of my life I lived with an alcoholic. Then one day he was told, chose between your family or the alcohol. He choose us.” What a joy. This day she works in Rehabilitation. Thanks for sharing, and continue the blogs.
Jerome,
Thanks for your comment!I always enjoy reading them for they offer wisdom and are very thought provoking.