Sesame Street combined educational curriculum with social and psychological learning, diversity and social inclusion, and ethical issues. There was considerable research in the production of the programmes, including academic research. As a result, children could develop their emotional intelligence and empathy, as the programmes clearly taught them right from wrong.
Not all these elements are present in current educational programmes for children. They are entertaining, but not necessarily pedagogical, and the ethical guidelines are not always clear, as some programmes resort to (mild) violence and (mild) harshness.
The issue of misogyny is also present in today’s programmes, as female characters bear traits that are submissive and passive. I remember Miss Piggy being a little dated character-wise, but she was always a strong female lead.