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When you’re on vacation with your family, every morning holds a little magic, especially when you’re waking up with Elmo and his friends from Sesame Street. Being a mom of two young kids, I’m always looking for travel experiences that connect us in unique and fun ways. During our most recent trip to Beaches, we discovered the new Sesame Street Sunrise Yoga program, and it quickly became one of our favorite ways to start the day. Imagine your little ones unrolling their mats beside their favorite furry friends Elmo, Bert, Ernie, Cookie Monster and more, taking a deep breath of ocean air, and striking a gentle pose with the sound of waves in the background. It’s playful, peaceful, a little silly, and full of heart—just like Elmo himself.

Inspired by the adorable yoga program, I wanted to learn how else a 3 and ½ year old might relax to share with my own kids. I sat down with Elmo for a special interview. He gave a peek into his own vacation routine, shared why yoga helps him feel calm and strong, and even offered up a breathing exercise for when the day gets a little sandy, literally.

What does Elmo’s perfect vacation day look like?

Elmo loves vacation! A perfect day is when Elmo wakes up early and walks to the beach with his Daddy to say “good morning” to the ocean. We hold hands and shout, “Good morning, Ocean!” and wave hello. And then the ocean waves back. Get it? Hee hee. That’s a little joke Elmo’s Daddy made up. Then we go on a shell hunt and count all the different kinds we find. Elmo’s favorites have brown and white spots just like Elmo’s dog, Tango. Elmo also likes to build sandcastles. Daddy helped Elmo make one that looks like Elmo’s own home, 123 Sesame Street! That was really fun. Elmo likes to meet other kids on vacation and play all together, especially in the kiddie pool with our mommies and daddies.

How does Elmo like to self-care when he is on a beach vacation?

Elmo loves to do yoga! It’s so much fun. It’s a kind of exercise that helps Elmo stretch and stay strong. Anyone can do it! And it feels really peaceful and quiet… but it gives Elmo energy and helps Elmo concentrate, too. Elmo likes to do yoga with his mommy in the morning after his beach walk. And then it’s smoothie time!

How does Elmo’s self-care help him feel calmer and help him with his emotions throughout the day and when he plays?

Elmo learned a breathing exercise to do when he’s having big feelings—like when Elmo’s sandcastle got washed away. It’s called the volcano! You start with your hands together in front of you. Then you take a deep breath in slowly through your nose and lift your arms up high—like the lava coming up inside a volcano. Then you breathe out all those big feelings in a H-A-A sound, and you bring your arms down, like the lava coming out of the volcano. It always helps Elmo feel better, and it’s fun, too!

When Elmo is at the beach or on vacation, what are some of his favorite healthy snacks?

Well, Elmo already told you about smoothies. Elmo loooooooves fresh fruit, especially pineapple! On vacation, Elmo gets to try new fruits he doesn’t always get at home. Papaya is delicious and also really fun to say. Papa–YA! Oh, and did you know there is a fruit called a star fruit? It’s really shaped like a star!

Does Elmo have any tips for families on vacation on how to stay active together?

There are so many things Elmo likes to do with his family! We play volleyball together on the beach, we go on treasure hunts, and sometimes we have family dance contests. You should see Elmo’s mommy doing the chicken dance!

How does Elmo feel when he spends time with his whole family on vacation?

Elmo feels so happy on vacation. Every day feels like unwrapping a special present, and Elmo feels lucky to be able to spend all day together as a family. But you know what? It’s always nice to come home to Sesame Street, too. And then Elmo can start thinking about the NEXT vacation!

More About the Partnership:

From morning stretches to bedtime stories, fun-filled moments with Elmo and his Sesame Street friends starts at sunrise and ends at bedtime. Families at Beaches Resorts can explore the full Sesame Street experience with a dynamic lineup of activities—from Baking with Cookie Monster and Amazing Art with Julia to Surprise Tea Time with Abby Cadabby and character parades that light up the resort. Little ones can even enjoy a special tuck-in service with their favorite furry friend or celebrate birthdays Sesame Street-style. It’s all part of the Beaches Resorts’ exclusive partnership with Sesame Street, designed to make every moment of your family’s vacation a little more magical, a little more meaningful—and a whole lot more fun.