New Elmo book printed in Stevens Point
Metro Wire Staff
Stevens Point-based book publisher Worzalla recently completed a run of a new children’s book designed to help young kids deal with returning to school during COVID-19, according to a news release from the company.
Heroes Wear Masks: Elmo’s Super Adventure hit the stands on Sept. 15. It’s a new picture book from Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit educational media organization behind Sesame Street, that will help children manage back-to-school anxiety and understand the changes they’ll face in their classrooms and playrooms.
“One of the most powerful things about the Sesame Street Muppets is how deeply kids identify with them. When they see their friend Elmo adjusting to something unfamiliar—like wearing a mask to school—they realize that they can do it too,” said Steve Youngwood, Sesame Workshop’s President, Media & Education, and Chief Operating Officer. “We’re thrilled to work with Sourcebooks to get this special book to families—we hope it helps ease their back-to-school transitions in this difficult time.”
In Heroes Wear Masks, children will see Elmo getting ready to head back to school, with some changes to his morning routine. Things are a little different when Elmo gets to school too, and kids will see their Sesame Street friend adapting to wearing a mask, washing hands more frequently, social distancing, temperature checks, and feeling anxious about leaving home.
“We are so excited to work with our extraordinary partner Sesame Workshop in bringing forth a story that can spark playful learning and offer comfort to families and children facing a new sense of normalcy,” said Karen Shapiro, publishing manager for Sourcebooks Wonderland.
The book will also feature tips for parents and caregivers, including language they can use with young children around handwashing, face masks, back-to-school anxiety, and other ways to stay healthy.