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Teen Kids News (Syndicated)

common sense media says

Teens report for teens in lively news show.

parents & educators say
See all 8 reviews | Review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this topical news show is geared for 13- to 16-year-olds. Topics cover a wide range -- from hard-hitting facts about the Iraq war and life after Sept. 11 to ways to tell whether a boy or girl is right for you -- and are usually specifically tailored toward the teen audience: What if there's a draft? How has the SAT changed? How can you look your best when visiting colleges? The show is anchored and reported completely by teens (both boys and girls) from a range of diverse backgrounds. Some topics may be difficult for sensitive younger teens, and some mature teens may find the format corny -- but for most, this series presents a peer-oriented opportunity for them to learn about real happenings in their world.

Positive messages: The anchors/reporters are a diverse group of teen boys and girls. Promotes discussion of potentially difficult issues.
Violence: Some stories include information (without detail or gore) about the Iraq war and life post-9/11.
Sex: Very benign, teen-oriented social commentary on how to know if a girl or boy is the "right" one.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Teen Kids News

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about the specific stories that are covered in each episode. Teens interested in a particular topic may want to dig up more information on the Internet or via a trip to the library. Mostly, parents need to be aware of potentially sensitive topics and make sure that kids who are exposed to these stories understand what's going on -- and have a chance to ask their own questions.

What's the story?

What's the story?
The producers of TEEN KIDS NEWS are well aware of the key to success with the teen market: Teens relate best to other teens. So even though there are likely some experienced adults behind the camera, for the show's teen viewers, it's all about anchors/reporters Mwanzaa, Haley, Cody, Lily, Felipe, and Madeline. The show features crisp topical reporting by these sharp teens (one of them, Haley Cohen, is Paula Zahn's daughter). Each half-hour episode covers news, issues, sports, social action, and entertainment -- catering to its audience's ability to multitask, the show's segments jump from topic to topic. In just one installment, for example, everything from global warming, political election pressures, and new smoking studies to Tyra Banks, belly fat, and South African golfers was covered.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

Parents may be left bleary-eyed, but teens love the fast pace -- and it keeps their attention. Parents of sensitive or younger teens may need to keep an eye peeled for content that could be too much for them, but otherwise this is a lively show that gives teens something substantial to chew on. It's a great fit for kids who have outgrown Nick News but aren't quite ready for The Daily Show.

TV themes & details

Themes
history
TV Details
TV Rating: TV-Y7
Network: Syndicated
Cast: Haley Cohen, Madeline Rogan, Mwanzaa Brown
Genre: Educational
Where to watch: Syndicated
This review was written by Pam Gelman
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

i hate common ...
kid, 12 years old
10
 
What is this
TV-Y7 isn't for kids under 7 for most appropriatley. i watched it since 10. WHAT IS THIS TV-Y7 IS NOT AGE APPROPRIATE FOR KIDS 7, 8, 9, 10 OR 11 YEAR OLDS OR ORE. I MEAN MORE.... I LIKE TV-Y7 Should be TV-G.
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kid, 12 years old
17
 
if that says not family or kids channels or not PG or some PG-13, i would not recommend it when the kids are here
adults put me a parental control and cannot watch PG!
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teen, 14 years old
17
 
if that says not family or kids channels or not PG or some PG-13, i would not recommend it when the kids are here
adults put me a parental control and cannot watch PG!
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kid, 11 years old
17
 
if that says not family or kids channels or not PG or some PG-13, i would not recommend it when the kids are here
adults put me a parental control and cannot watch PG!
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kid, 12 years old
7
 
Teen Kids News
i think this show is supposed to be 7+ because you rated it TV-Y7.
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teen, 14 years old
7
 
Teen Kids News
i think this show is supposed to be 7+ because you rated it TV-Y7.
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kid, 11 years old
7
 
Teen Kids News
i think this show is supposed to be 7+ because you rated it TV-Y7.
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gospurs57
adult
 
A show for teens who want news
In San Antonio, unfortunately, there is no station that currently carries "Teen Kids News". It does air across the country in syndication--on Fox 5 in New York and on ABC7 in Los Angeles, just to name two major stations. The show is always criticized for being cheesy, but it's decent educational TV. There's no sexual innuendo, violence, or profanity to take away from the quality of the show.
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ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age
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