THE CHILDREN'S HOUR INC. PRESENTS COMMUNICATION NATION: A FOUR-PART RADIO AND PODCAST SERIES

The Children’s Hour Inc., an Albuquerque-based nonprofit known for its educational, internationally syndicated media made for kids by kids, proudly presents “Communication Nation,” a four-part radio series. This innovative series will be broadcast weekly throughout August, starting on July 29, 2024. Designed to educate and engage, the series will also be available as podcasts and accompanied by a comprehensive curriculum on ChildrensHour.org/CommunicationNation, with future availability on PBSLearningMedia.org.

“Communication Nation” is part of the United We Stand New Mexico initiative, funded by a noncompetitive subaward from the NEH. The series aims to explore various forms of communication, including languages, verbal abilities, media, and community building, while aligning with national and state education standards for students in grades 3-6. The series will be segmented into classroom-ready audio modules, complemented by learning guides and teacher resources, ensuring its integration into educational settings.

The series is structured into four hour-long episodes, each addressing critical aspects of communication and social cohesion:

1. Speaking The Truth: Misinformation and Media Literacy
   This episode focuses on developing critical thinking skills in students, enabling them to identify perspectives, motivations, and biases in media sources. It emphasizes the societal impact of false information and its threat to civil rights and democracy. The featured guest is Eisha Buch from Common Sense Media, The Children’s Hour Kids Crew and host Katie Stone.
2. Mother Tongue: Diversity of Spoken Languages in the United States
   Here, students will explore the reasons behind language discrimination, analyze language loss, and propose solutions for fostering a positive multilingual society. The episode encourages empathy and appreciation by connecting students with the stories and experiences of diverse language speakers. Featured guests include author Joanna Ho, and the children and staff at Cochiti Children’s Learning Center, in Cochiti Pueblo, New Mexico, The Children’s Hour Kids Crew and host Katie Stone.
3. Other Voices, Other Sounds: Diversity of Communication in the United States
   This episode addresses social exclusion and discrimination faced by individuals with linguistic or verbal impairments, hearing impairments, or those on the autism spectrum. It teaches children the language of kindness and inclusion, promoting understanding and acceptance. Featured speakers include Brad Klein and his deaf parents Marty and Candy, LPSW Marci Laurel from the University of New Mexico Center for Development and Disability, and Rio Rancho Public Schools Assistive Technology Coordinator Tibbany Ho, The Children’s Hour Kids Crew and host Katie Stone.
4. Together We Can: Community Building
   The final episode focuses on strategies and methods for building community, using traditional games and activities that require teamwork and cooperation. It highlights the importance of unity and aims to combat bullying and hate while inspiring positive community involvement. Featured speakers include actor, director and theater educator Doug Montoya, of the BOXAbq Theater in Albuquerque, New Mexico, The Children’s Hour Kids Crew and host Katie Stone.

“Communication Nation” not only serves as a tool for families and educators but also promotes critical thinking, historical awareness, and cultural empathy. By featuring a variety of artistic expressions, including music, poetry, and visual arts, the series helps children make positive connections with their own lives and fosters a sense of community and inclusivity.

This special project has received generous funding from the National Endowment for the Humanities through the United We Stand initiative, and has been made possible by the New Mexico Humanities Council. The Children’s Hour radio show is distributed by Native Voice One: The Native American Radio Network, and broadcasts weekly on more than 160 public radio stations across the United States.

For more information and to access the series, visit ChildrensHour.org/CommunicationNation. Join us in this journey to educate and inspire the next generation of communicators and community builders.