A new Elmo dance special aimed at promoting healthy habits for families has debuted today, offering a fun way for children to engage in important routines related to sleep, nutrition, and movement. Recognizing that instilling these lifelong habits in kids at an early age can significantly reduce the risk of chronic illnesses later in life, Sesame Workshop, in collaboration with healthcare company Abbott, is providing valuable resources to help families establish healthier routines as the new year unfolds.
The centerpiece of this initiative is the YouTube special, “Elmo’s World: Dance Party!” This 26-minute musical program transforms living rooms into vibrant dance floors where children can groove along with Elmo and his friends, including Grover, Abby Cadabby, Big Bird, and actress Aubrey Plaza, who portrays Ms. Noodle. The special encourages families to get active together while teaching the importance of nourishment for both body and mind.
During their colorful adventure, Elmo and Grover realize that Elmo only has one dance move, prompting them to seek assistance from their friends and check in with kids globally. A delightful animated segment featuring Elmo, Grover, and the puppy Tango adds to the fun as they chase Felix the Chicken throughout Sesame Street.
Beyond the dance party, Sesame Workshop has created a collection of research-based multimedia tools designed to educate families on promoting healthy lifestyles. These resources are available on the Healthy Habits page and include a storybook titled “Sun’s Up, Sun’s Down,” which showcases healthy routines inspired by Sesame Street characters, and an activity book called “Healthy Together,” which features printable worksheets to facilitate family engagement in developing these habits.
Mindful of diverse global perspectives on health, Sesame Workshop is committed to reaching audiences far and wide. Fans in Mexico and Brazil can access an array of resources such as classroom boxes filled with activities, WhatsApp micro-learning cards, and a new Hindi-language storybook devoted to healthy eating.
This collaboration between Sesame Workshop and Abbott underscores the belief that the small, everyday decisions families make now can pave the way for a lifetime of wellness. The goal is to make adopting these healthy practices not just achievable, but enjoyable—transforming beneficial routines into shared family experiences rather than chores.
Families can catch “Elmo’s World Dance Party!” on both YouTube and YouTube Kids, and they are encouraged to explore the tools available on the Healthy Habits page to support their journey toward healthier living together.