Frequently Asked Questions

About the Television Program

• How did Sesame Workshop and Sesame Street begin?

  Sesame Workshop and Sesame Street began as an experiment in 1968, and the show debuted on November 10, 1969. The series was designed to use television to teach preschoolers, and give them skills that would ensure a successful transition from home to school. The show gave children a head start, and aimed to provide them with the confidence to learn the alphabet, numbers, and social skills.
  
  From the beginning, Sesame Street has been the most thoroughly researched and tested television show ever produced, and it has received more Emmy Awards than any other program in television history.
   

• How did Sesame Street get its name?

  After a long search for a catchy name, one of the show's writers suggested “Sesame Street.” The word "sesame," an allusion to the fabled command from The Arabian Nights, "Open, Sesame!" suggested excitement and adventure. Since the show was set in an urban street scene, “Sesame Street” seemed an ideal combination.

• Why does Sesame Street include Spanish in the program?

  Sesame Street includes Spanish to convey the message that knowing more than one language is useful and fun, and that all languages are important. We teach a few Spanish words and phrases that can make it easier for English- and Spanish-speaking children to communicate.

• Can I submit a show idea or a song?

  Unfortunately, Sesame Street Productions does not accept any unsolicited material because of union laws. We currently have a full staff of writers who create all of our scripts (including stories, poems, and songs) based on a very specific curriculum.

• Is it possible to see a taping of Sesame Street?

  Sesame Street is not filmed in front of a live studio audience, and the set is not able to accommodate guests.

• Can my child appear on Sesame Street?

  The children who appear on Sesame Street are chosen from schools, agencies, and mail submissions of the tri-state area of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.

• Why are there more male Muppets than female Muppets?

  Throughout the show’s history, Sesame Street's producers have placed great emphasis on cast diversity. In recent years, there has been a strong push towards increased diversity among the Muppets as well, as is seen in the creation and visibility of Abby Cadabby, Zoe, Rosita, and Kingston Livingston.

• Why does Elmo refer to himself in the third person? Won't this teach children improper English?

  Elmo mimics the behavior of many preschoolers. Like 3-year-olds, he doesn't always have the skills or knowledge to speak proper English. Cast members and many of the other Muppets, however, do demonstrate proper usage of the English language.

• How do I find out when programs are on PBS?

  To find out when shows are on in your area, please visit this page. If you need more information, contact your local PBS station.