Since its first episode back in 1969, Sesame Street has been entertaining children while providing meaningful messages that come with a catchy tune. Research has even shown the preschool children who watched Sesame Street back in the 1970s performed better in school. More recently, the show has moved into the realm of educating both kids and parents about certain issues that can be hard to discuss with young people, like coping with an incarcerated parent.

That's why Sesame Street’s new autistic character, Julia, will be a welcomed addition for children affected by an autism spectrum disorder (AUD). As part of the show’s nationwide initiative to spread awareness for autism, the Sesame Street and Autism: See Amazing in All Children online tool launched this past Wednesday. Not only will it provide a Sesame Street character that is relatable for children with autism, but it will also help out parents with handling situations that are stressful for their child.

"Sesame Workshop is uniquely positioned to play a meaningful role in increasing people's understanding about autism," Sherrie Westin, executive vice president of Global Impact and Philanthropy at Sesame Workshop, said in a statement. "This project is an extension of the belief we've always promoted: 'We are all different, but all the same.' I am passionate about this initiative, and am so proud of the partnerships with the autism community that have led to this."