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News for Kids



Podcast - News for Kids . . . 

Kids do say the darnedest things.

If my memory serves me correctly . . . who’s kidding who here, who relies on memory these days. According to Google, the Art Linkletter Show which aired from September 1952 -September 1969 may have been one of the first to feature the innocent humor and light-hearted questions and comments that children provide. Do you know of other programs? I’d love to hear from you.

A new twist, on this time-honored entertainment you might enjoy, is the NBC News: Kids Edition hosted by news anchor, Lester Holt on YouTube.

This is a cheerful yet serious examination of issues that parents may have trouble explaining from nightly news broadcasts. Or for that matter the barrage of dreadful news we receive daily over social media, online sessions, and friends and neighbors.

Out of curiosity, what questions have you sidestepped today?

Let’s face it kids do ask the best questions. Pure unadulterated optimists. No admonition or holding back. Just wholesome to the point questions.

Here’s a recent example, “Can the sun kill Coronavirus?”

 I don’t know, do you?

Dare I say it, this “fun” news segment is dedicated to helping children and adults cope with the complicated,  confusing, and frustrating issues in the news.

Gotta admit I could relate to this one, two youngsters from Texas asked, “We’re getting less exercise than normal, how come we feel more tired?”

Or can you explain this one? “Everyone talks about flattening the curve, what is the curve?”

Want the answers, then tune in - you will be enlightened and leave with a smile. Then share it with a loved one. They could use some enjoyable news too.

I’m convinced this brief “good news” segment is just as calming and educational for adults as it is for its intended audience.

Check it out! Just search Google for - Nightly News: Kids Edition. You’ll be so glad you did.

This is Patrick Ball, thanks for listening. See you in the next episode.

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