Thanks to this week’s Google Logo, you probably already know that this year marks Sesame Street’s 40th on television. Beginning Tuesday, Nov. 10, its actual anniversary date, new episodes will air on PBS in place of the re-runs we’ve had to endure all summer.
There is some discussion over whether or not Sesame Street is still relevent, which surprises me to be quite honest. There aren’t a lot of good things on TV these days — even a self-proclaimed addict like me can admit that — so I tend to really latch on to the few things I do feel comfortable letting my son watch. A show full of furry monsters who teach you numbers and ABC’s is definitely on the good list.
Is it outdated? Possibly. Is there anything wrong with that? Not in my book.
It’s a virtual place I can take my child where the economy hasn’t effected the neighborhood. It’s dependable and trustworthy. It’s safe. It’s Sesame Street, for crying out loud!
My son favors Elmo, whose voice can get a little annoying after awhile. But I’m pretty sure I owe thanks to the little red guy for my 14-month-old son being able to sing along to the Alphabet Song with, “Aaaaa-Eeeeee.” However, sometimes in the middle of the night, I’m haunted by Elmo’s Song. I prefer it when he’s riding his tricycle.
When I was a kid, I was a big fan of Grover, especially when he wore his red cape. I can still remember reading “The Monster at the End of This Book” over and over. My favorite segment was the Teeny Little Superguy — who lived in a cup and taught me things like sharing, and the safe way to cross the street.
Nowadays, the animated learning segments continue, and celebrity guests still visit and sing with the gang.
So what’s not to love? Who is your kid’s favorite monster? Who was yours?
Happy 40th, Sesame Street!
More from me and my monster: