Questions and reflections posed for kid listeners to think about. Show notes provide links to articles and resources, extending opportunities to explore the topics further. Real-world issues are presented to kids in ways they can understand and digest so they can create informed opinions of their own.
Positive Messages
a lot
Kids should have access to news about current events related to social justice, human rights, politics, and safety. Kids can be a powerful influence when they speak up and voice their opinions, ideas, and experiences.
Positive Role Models
a lot
Examples of how people have overcome or fought back against unjust and inequitable decisions and systems, and how they continue to do so. Counter-narratives sprinkled in to disprove problematic arguments that are oppressive and harmful to specific individuals or groups of people.
Diverse Representations
some
Stories shed light on issues reflecting larger systemic inequities like climate change and racism. Topics are covered that directly impact people from groups who've been historically marginalized. Aims to have kids think critically about the impact of these issues from multiple perspectives. Topics and issues from all around the world are discussed.
Parents need to know that Worth Noting is a podcast focused on current events that illuminate inequity and injustice. Topics are timely, historical, and sometimes controversial, ranging from mask mandates to abortion rights to sexual abuse. The podcast provides a space for teens (and adults!) to understand more about each issue through language, definitions, and perspectives. Some heavier topics could potentially prompt strong emotions, memories, or trauma.
I don't think this podcast exists anymore... the link now goes to something similar, but it's more about books than current events called "The children's book podcast (stories worth noting)"
What’s It About?
WORTH NOTING is a current events podcast for teens. The show aims to break down history as it's being made. Episodes are generally 10 minutes or less in length and cover topics related to human rights, social justice, politics, and safety. For example, one episode includes a detailed account of a school banning books that offer diverse representations of people and history. Another covers the direct harm associated with historical reenactments. Host Matthew Winner is the only voice on the show; he reads a written script that includes a detailed account of alarming stories that exemplify a larger systemic problem.
This podcast is a wonderful way for kids to think about their role in addressing problematic systems, decisions, and behaviors that impact traditionally marginalized groups. The show's intention is to center kids within history as it's unfolding, but their voices and opinions aren't present in the podcast. And the language used and topics covered may require further conversations for teens to fully understand.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about human rights issues vs. politics. What's the difference? Is it always clear?
What do inclusive spaces look like? How are they created?
What topics would you like to see discussed on Worth Noting? Why?
Pricing structure:
Free (Episodes free with ads. Ad-free listening with bonus content and early access episodes with $3.99/month subscription on Apple Podcasts.)
Last updated:
April 23, 2022
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
suggesting a diversity update.
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
By Mary Field
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
