Big Storms, Big Feelings - Helping young children cope with extreme weather

What do we say to a four-year-old when the sky turns orange from wildfire smoke? How can parents engage children in preparing for a hurricane without creating more fear? And what role can storytelling and trusted characters play in helping children feel safe, capable, and connected to their communities? This session – hosted by Futerra and TED Countdown – will explore new global Sesame Workshop research about how young children and their families experience extreme weather. It will bring the findings to life through a joyful encounter that is unmistakably Sesame: a moderated conversation between Sesame Workshop research expert Dr. Kim Foulds, with a special appearance from Elmo. After Dr. Foulds shares insights from Sesame Workshop’s latest research, the conversation opens into a discussion between researchers, educators, storytellers, and children’s media experts on what adults can do next to help children understand and cope with extreme weather. Speakers: Solitaire Townsend, Chief Solutionist, Futerra (moderator) Elmo, The Muppet Dr Kim Foulds, Vice President, Research & Insights, Sesame Workshop Dr Katherine Hayhoe, Chief Scientist, The Nature Conservancy J.J. Johnson, Partner, Sinking Ship Entertainment Darla Silva, Chief Program Officer, UNICEF USA Xiye Bastida, Planetary Guardian