| Category | Details |
| Episode Number | 0584 |
| Season | Season 5 (1973-1974) |
| Air Date | January 24, 1974 |
| Key Muppets | Cookie Monster, Apple Monster, Oscar, Grover, The Count |
| Human Cast | Luis, David, Maria, Gordon, Mr. Hooper |
| Letter of the Day | T |
| Number of the Day | 6 |
| Street Locations | 123 Sesame Street, Fix-It Shop, Mr. Macintosh's Cart |
| Special Invention | Oscar's Trash Can Elevator (Pulley System) |
| Key Concept | Identity vs. Disguise |
| Sponsors | R, T, 6 |
Street Scenes
Cookie Monster says his cousin is coming over. Luis thinks Cookie Monster is wearing a disguise to get more snacks. The newcomer arrives and rejects a cookie. He says the cookie is yucky. He eats every apple on a fruit cart instead. The real Cookie Monster shows up later to solve the mystery. The two cousins walk away together after trying the local food.
Oscar decides to upgrade his trash can. He puts in a manual elevator. Grover's in charge of the rope and pulley system. Grover pulls the heavy can up and down. Oscar asks for his rock collection. He asks for three heavy watermelons. Grover's wiped out from all the work. Grover lets go of the rope to grab a newspaper. The trash can slams to the sidewalk. Oscar fires Grover right away.
The neighborhood is going back to its usual routine. David and Luis are playing basketball on the court. Bob and Grover tell the audience about the sponsors. The sun is starting to set on the block. Residents tidy up their toys. They're leaving the broken pulley system behind. You can use these stories to talk about what to expect and what your child's limits are.
Parent's Guide
Luis thinks that Apple Monster is actually Cookie Monster in disguise. He thinks the monster wants to trick him for cookies. Apple Monster likes fruit better. You can use this story to teach your child about individuality. Don't judge others based on how they look or what group they're part of. Everyone has different tastes.
Oscar builds an elevator using a rope and a pulley. Grover lifts the heavy trash can manually. This scene introduces mechanical advantage. You can explain how tools help people do heavy work. Point out pulleys on window blinds or see-saws at a park. These examples show how engineering solves daily problems.
Apple Monster isn't a fan of cookies. He's a fan of crisp apples as a snack. You can use this character to make healthy food exciting. Present fruit consumption as a stylish choice. This story helps you feel more comfortable having healthy snacks at dinner.
Oscar's a tough boss for Grover. He makes Grover lift heavy rocks and watermelons. He fires Grover when the tired monster messes up. You should talk to your child about fairness and leadership. Oscar was a bit unreasonable and disorganized. Help your kid learn to appreciate the hard work of the people who support them.
Little Jerry and the Monotones sing about sadness. The show gives a name to a big feeling. You should use this song to validate your child's emotions. Just explain that everyone feels sad sometimes. Ask your child what makes them feel better to help them learn more emotional words.
Christopher Clumsy tries to jump over a hole. He falls into a second hole or walks into a wall. This humor teaches humility. It's a good reminder to stay aware of your surroundings. Even when you think you've figured out a problem, accidents can still happen.
