How Takalani Sesame helps children learn through play
Sesame Workshop’s mission is to ‘help kids grow smarter, stronger and kinder’. As the Takalani Sesame Muppets go about their business, here are just some of the ways they do that.
Modelling children’s creativity and flexibility
Children watch the Muppets trying out different ways of doing things, embracing their efforts when things don’t go to plan, trying again, dealing with frustration and supporting and encouraging their friends.
Enjoying playful problem-solving
In 2019 Takalani Sesame added a new segment, Playtime with Basma and Jad, to the show. These caring best pals work through challenges, never giving up and singing their catchy song as they “try, try, try again!”.
They also teach the concept of ‘ubuntu’ – a word from the Nguni languages of Zulu and Xhosa describing essential humanity, like compassion and empathy. That’s also important to Sesame Workshop’s focus on inclusion.
