Sesame Street introduces autistic character named Julia as part of initiative

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The character was revealed through through Sesame Workshop's Sesame Street and Autism: See Amazing in All Children initiative
She is included in a digital storybook that also stars Elmo and Abby
Elmo says that Julia 'does things a little differently'

Published: 13:59 EST, 21 October 2015 | Updated: 15:58 EST, 21 October 2015

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An autistic character is now part of Sesame Street, it emerged Wednesday.

Named Julia, the character was revealed through Sesame Workshop's Sesame Street and Autism: See Amazing in All Children initiative.

Dr. Jeanette Betancourt, who is the workshop's senior vice president of community and family engagement, told People: 'We are trying to spread the story about the theory behind this whole thing - love and acceptance.

'Everyone is touched by autism, and by creating Julia, Sesame is bringing children together.'

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New face: Julia, pictured, is a new, autistic Sesame Street character

A digital storybook - titled 'We're Amazing, 1, 2, 3!' - stars Sesame Street characters Elmo and Abby alongside Julia.

Elmo tells Abby at one point: 'Elmo's daddy told Elmo that Julia has autism.

'So she does things a little differently.

'Sometimes Elmo talks to Julia using fewer words and says the same thing a few times.'

He also reveals to Abby: 'Oh, and sometimes Elmo waits a long time for Julia to answer.'

In another part of the story, Julia covers her ears with her hands.

Elmo tells Abby: 'Julia has really good ears. Sometimes she hears noises that Elmo doesn't notice.

'Like the noise the blender makes. She really doesn't like it!'

Daily routine cards, informational articles and videos are also part of the initiative's website, People reported.

Story time: Julia is included in an online storybook with characters Abby and Elmo. Throughout the story Elmo (right) explains things about Julia to Abby (left)

The initiative's website says: 'Developed with input from parents, people who serve the autism community, and people with autism, See Amazing in All Children offers families ways to overcome common challenges and simplify everyday activities.

'At the same time, the project fosters an affirming narrative around autism for all families and kids.'

The initiative was created over three years, People reported.

Betancourt told the website: 'Children with autism are five times more likely to get bullied.

'And with one in 68 children having autism, that's a lot of bullying.

'Our goal is to bring forth what all children share in common, not their differences.

'Children with autism share in the joy of playing and loving and being friends and being part of a group.'

More information on Sesame Street and Autism: See Amazing in All Children initiative can be found here.