Common Sense Media Review
By Stephanie Snyder
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Docuseries gives voice to girls preyed upon by teachers.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Keep This Between Us
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In KEEP THIS BETWEEN US, producer and subject Cheryl Nichols returns to her hometown to uncover the truth about her childhood trauma -- that as a teenager, she was groomed by a trusted teacher and manipulated into a romantic relationship with him. From the perspectives of Cheryl and her former classmates, family members, friends, and educators, the docuseries reveals elements of their relationship and the impact it has had on her life. It also highlights the fact that this is a societal problem, widespread across the United States, though it doesn't get the same attention as stories about predators in the workplace and in the media. Will Cheryl get all of the answers she's looking for?
Is It Any Good?
Disturbing details of predatory behavior by teachers won't give you those warm back-to-school feelings. Keep This Between Us is heavy -- after all, many people have positive feelings about their teachers and school experiences. The fact that there are so many instances of teacher-student relationships and sexual assault in schools without reprimand is a tough pill to swallow, but a necessary truth to be revealed. Though slow-moving, this docuseries is an important watch for all, but especially for teens and parents of teens, as Cheryl Nichols candidly retells her story, with red flags and miscommunication as takeaways to prevent this from happening to others. Cheryl's directorial choice to return to her hometown and have the tough sit-down conversations with those who witnessed it all will have viewers watching through the end.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about trauma in Keep This Between Us. How did Cheryl's relationship with her teacher as a teenager impact other areas of her life? Why is it important to talk about and work through our traumas? What are some ways to do that?
Do you think that society tends to silence girls' voices? Why or why not? Why do you think women and girls fear speaking up and not being believed?
How do you communicate with people you trust about important issues? What are some other ways for children and teens to be able to speak up and be believed about the things that happen to them?
TV Details
- Premiere date : August 29, 2022
- Cast : Cheryl Nichols
- Network : Freeform
- Genre : Reality TV
- Topics : Activism , School ( High School )
- Character Strengths : Courage , Perseverance
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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