Nick News with Linda Ellerbee
By Pam Gelman,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
A must-see news program for teens and tweens.
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Nick News with Linda Ellerbee
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Based on 7 parent reviews
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Though I've NEVER seen this, I'm SURE Linda Ellerbee is GOOD!
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What's the Story?
Geared for teens and tweens interested in world events, NICK NEWS WITH LINDA ELLERBEE helps kids make sense of world events by presenting them in kid-friendly, understandable language. Host Linda Ellerbee tackles big topics like war in Iraq, AIDS, the O.J. Simpson trial, as well as other important issues that are very relatable to this age: bullying, divorce, learning and mental disorders, body image, and homelessness. Sitting cross-legged with a group of school-aged boys and girls of all races, Ellerbee presents an issue and then asks questions about how the kids would react in this situation. Then she'll present a different perspective and give the kids time to think about and change their responses. Nick News also features exposés on specific events, projects, or problems related to the theme of the episode, such as recycling and the environmental hazards of non-recyclable products.
Is It Any Good?
This series first came on the air in 1992 and has won Emmy, Peabody, and Columbia duPont awards and been endorsed by the National Education Association. There's no debate over the benefits of kids learning about politics and their world. The only words of caution to parents would be to watch out for very serious topics that might be inappropriate for younger viewers. Nick News with Linda Ellerbee is intended for teens and tweens who have the maturity to hear about difficult topics.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the discussions raised by Nick News with Linda Ellerbee. Watching this show is no replacement for meaningful parent-child conversations about these hard topics. Questions will be raised that the show doesn't cover, and parents may need to ask kids questions to make sure they understand why these issues are important.
How does Nick News with Linda Ellerbee promote curiosity and empathy? Why are those important character strengths?
TV Details
- Premiere date: April 18, 1992
- Cast: Linda Ellerbee
- Network: Nickelodeon
- Genre: Educational
- Topics: High School, History
- Character Strengths: Curiosity, Empathy
- TV rating: TV-Y
- Last updated: August 27, 2022
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