As parents, we’re so focused on taking care of our kids that we may forget to stop and realize that they have pressing questions about the pandemic that need answering, too. Staring this Saturday, April 3, Nickelodeon is tapping Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease (NIAID) and the nation’s leading expert on infectious diseases to take real questions from real kids about COVID in a series of “Nick News Breaks.” The news updates will air on Nick, TeenNick, Nicktoons and on Nickelodeon social media platforms. It’s a great way to hear what’s really on kids’ minds as we try to get through this challenging time, and Dr. Fauci answers questions in a down-to-earth and straightforward way.
Some of the questions Dr. Fauci got from kids include:
- I already wear one mask and now I hear we need to wear two masks. Do I really need to wear two masks? – Kaleb, age 12
- I stay with my grandma part-time. Does that mean I need to get the vaccine? She gives the best hugs – does that mean I can’t hug her? – Jade, age 10
- My parents told me that kids my age are now being tested for the vaccination. Is that true? – Joey, age 9
- When will I be allowed to have playdates again? – Ella, age 6
- Why does the information about COVID-19 keep changing on the news? – Jesai, age 13
- I didn’t have a birthday party last year. Will I miss it again this year? – Natalie, age 11
“Nick News Breaks” debuted on Nickelodeon earlier this year and has covered topics that kids have questions about including the riots at the Capitol, former President Trump’s impeachment, a peaceful transition of power, COVID vaccines and the NASA landing on Mars.
The “Nick News” series also presented an hour-long special: “Kids, Race and Unity: A Nick News Special,” hosted by Alicia Keys. More specials will continue to air throughout the year so stay tuned!