Sesame Workshop

Like everywhere where developing countries are undergoing a rapid change of diet, obesity is a growing problem in Latin America. To intervene early and influence lifestyles in the period when many habits and preferences are shaped, the World Heart Federation and Sesame Workshop, are working together to teach pre-school children about healthy habits.

With viewers in more than 120 countries, Sesame Workshop is the largest informal educator of young children in the world. In Colombia, it launched the three-year Healthy Habits for Life partnership with the World Heart Federation in 2006. The initiative aims to raise awareness of the importance of healthy diets and physical activity among children and their caregivers.

Harnessing television to influence lifestyle
The project Plaza Sésamo: hábitos saludables para toda la vida works with local partners in Colombia to develop television content which is aired throughout Latin America in the Plaza Sésamo show.  Plaza Sésamo uses hispanic characters like Abelardo, Lola and Pancho alongside classic Sesame Street characters of Ernie, Bert and Elmo. Each episode combines segments from Mexico with animation and live action films produced throughout Latin America.  Children participate in the design and production of the materials developed in Colombia through the partnership.

Reaching out to the community
Educational materials will extend the project's impact beyond the television viewing experience. In the community outreach that will be launched at the beginning of 2008, the project will distribute print materials for children, parents and caregivers in community settings. 

Focus on nutrition, physical activity, and healthy hearts
The content of materials is guided by a curriculum developed by multidisciplinary Colombian advisors. The curriculum focuses on messages related to nutrition, a healthy heart, and the importance of physical exercise.

Research-based approach
Sesame Workshop bases its work on research. It measures the impact of the materials produced and conducts studies to see if they meet local needs. Materials are developed on the basis of formative research that probes children's interests and comprehension.  An impact evaluation will assess the project's effectiveness.