It’s not often that Cookie Monster shows self-control when gobbling up treats, but he’ll be giving it a go in his new app. Cookie Monster’s Challenge is a joint effort from Sesame Workshop and PBS KIDS, marking the first time the kids education giants have collaborated on an app.

While the premise of Cookie Monster’s Challenge is to help Cookie Monster build a newfangled cookie-making machine, the true intent is to help prep kids for school. It’s a goal that falls in line with the core mandates of both Sesame Workshop and PBS KIDS.

The iPad app is available for US$2.99 from the App Store. It features games that challenge kids to practice self-control, focus, memory, problem-solving and following directions. Designed for kids ages three to five, the app builds on the curricular focus of Sesame Street’s new season, which drills into self-regulation and other skills kids need for school.

It’s timed to launch for the debut of Sesame Street‘s 45th season, which premieres September 15 on PBS KIDS. A bonus half-hour Sesame Street program will also debut on the pubcaster in September. In addition, Abby’s Sandbox Search, a new game that focuses on letters, letter sounds and alliteration, will launch on pbskids.org/sesame this fall.

The Cookie Monster app also aligns with PBS KIDS’ commitment to help kids learn through educational media. The broadcaster has more than 30 educational apps currently on the App Store. The kids education expert is focusing on expanding its cross-platform experience, having launched its popular PBS KIDS Video app on Chromecast and Android earlier this summer, as well as launching PBS KIDS on Apple TV.