Sssh! Periods
Middle school students breaking stigma around taboo topics.
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this podcast.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Sssh! Periods is a podcast that candidly and courageously tackles the subject of periods and other difficult topics that adolescents may be curious about. Because many of the topics discussed typically carry a stigma, some episodes may be uncomfortable for some, but necessary. Topics discussed include, period poverty, women's birth rights and period tax. An episode dedicated to how mass shootings are affecting adolescents in the United States may be difficult for some, but it does include a trigger warning at the beginning of the episode .Some episodes also include discussions surrounding sexual identity, religion, culture, dating, and gender identity. There are also discussions about sex, birth control and dating. While guests and hosts are honest and opinionated, parents should keep in mind that the discussions are lead by middle school students and may require supportive follow up discussion with an adult. Therefore, it is important that parents are prepared to expand on the topics presented.
What’s It About?
SSSH! PERIODS is a podcast created by seven 8th grade students at Bronx Prep Middle School. Each episode features middle school students having courageous conversations about subjects like periods, gender identity, birth control and more. Sssh! Periods won NPR's Student Podcast challenge and has been featured in numerous outlets including Teen Vogue, Afropunk and the Today Show. In addition, through their platform, the students of Sssh! Periods were able to create a partnership with Proctor and Gamble and LOLA where they provided 60,000 pads to Bronx Prep Middle School and Bronx Prep High School.
Is It Any Good?
These middle school students tackle brave conversations that even many adults would be hesitant to have on a public platform. Sssh! Periods can develop critical thinking skills and inspire activism that could change the taboo nature of these topics for future generations.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the theme of courage found throughout the episodes of Sssh! Periods. What is courage? Why is courage an important attribute?
Periods are a part of nature. Why do you think it is considered taboo to talk about periods?
What do you think needs to happen to change the taboo narrative around periods and women's rights?
Research the current gun laws in America. Do you think the current gun laws have contributed to the presence of mass shootings?
Do you think there should be age restrictions on birth control? Why or why not?
Podcast Details
- Release date: October 16, 2019
- Genre: Mental Health & Wellness
- Average Run Time: 7 minutes
- Host: Bronx Prep Middle School
- Pricing structure: Free
- Topics: Activism, Great Girl Role Models, Middle School
- Character Strengths: Courage
- Last updated: December 20, 2022
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