Slimey Science Lesson

In one giant stretch for wormkind - as well as a first in the 29-year history of the children’s television show - “Sesame Street” is going to the moon. In the show’s first concentrated exploration of science issues, Oscar the Grouch’s pet worm, Slimey, is blasting off with four other worms to explore the moon - wrapped around more standard “Sesame Street” fare such as lessons on separation anxiety, conflict resolution, problem solving, persistence and listening. The show’s research director says, “We know that children are fascinated and they’re eager to learn more about space travel.” And indeed there’s much to learn, as surveys of “Sesame Street” viewers show a lot of them believe they can reach the moon by plane or helicopter, or climb there on Jack’s beanstalk.