When Elmo, the fluffy red star of Sesame Street, asked his social media followers how they were doing, he got a big response – but unfortunately, it wasn’t good. His innocent post got nearly 20,000 replies from fans around the globe, and they revealed that there’s a lot of worry in the world at the moment. They came from people who are upset about things like the climate crisis and global conflicts, and some who are just feeling a little down. All this might seem a bit strange, but Elmo’s post really did get a lot of people talking, and it was praised for encouraging people to open up about their feelings.
Oracy
Is it rather embarrassing that Elmo’s message gained such a reaction? Have we lost the sort of resilience that people used to need to explore the world and survive world wars? Or is it good that we are so much more aware of our feelings? Isn’t it really important to know that someone cares enough to help you share your worries? In any case, isn’t people’s habit of hiding how they feel a big factor in so many problems as it all comes out in the end somehow? What do you think?
Writing skills
Write a set of instructions to show someone who is struggling with their feelings how to find the support they need. Remember to include an introduction and numbered, sequenced directions about what they should do, including imperative verbs.
Or
Write a letter to yourself. Use it as an opportunity to praise the way you have coped with difficult issues, detailing things you did to help yourself manage and encouraging yourself to stay strong and seek support when you need it. Include all the features of an informal letter but focus on keeping the tone kind and optimistic.
Investigate
Which children’s TV show has been going the longest – Blue Peter or Sesame Street? Use facts you have researched to support your answer.
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