An Introduction to Engaging Kids with Podcasts

Faculty: Matthew Winner

OVERVIEW:

A Short Intensive Online Course

Thinking about starting a podcast for kids, but don’t know where to start? Join librarian, writer, and podcast innovator Matthew Winner to find the heart of your podcast for kids. This online intensive workshop will include presentations, small group discussions, a Q & A gathering, and more!

Feedback Expected:

• Informal: You will create during the course.  Sharing in the virtual classroom and/or during your peer group meeting will allow for informal discussion.

WHY THIS WORKSHOP?

Why is an amazing podcast such a gift to kids? Simple: podcasts are storytelling at its best!

This workshop will help you put ideas into practice to start defining the how, why, and what of your podcast for kids.

The first session will offer you an overview of podcasting for kids, including great programs in the field, defining your audience, and selecting a format.

During the week between sessions, you will have the opportunity to brainstorm ideas and consider the questions set out in the opening session. You will also have an opportunity to meet informally with Matthew Winner during an optional Q & A session to dig into your questions.

The second session will have two parts: small group discussion and an overview of podcast technology and tools.

During our live sessions, you will:

• Understand the importance of keeping your audience at the center of your podcast
• Learn about the current market of podcasts and how to make your own project stand out
• Engage in small group sharing and brainstorming
• Connect with a true podcast innovator: Matthew Winner

IT’S A GREAT FIT FOR:

• Podcast beginners: Whether you are brand new to podcasts or brand new to bringing podcasts to kids, this short course provides an overview of crafting meaningful podcast experiences for kids.
• Writers looking for a new way to engage in storytelling. Many children’s book writers want to find new ways to reach their readers, and podcasts offer a unique pathway to engage kids in stories and the world around them.
• Those who like the structure of a short course with time to work on your own ideas in between sessions. You’ll have time to implement some of your learning and offer your work to fellow writers who can give informal feedback and encouragement.
• You like the flexibility of online programs with recordings available for at least 30 days following the course.

DETAILED AGENDA:

Part 1: Keeping Kids at the Heart of Your Podcast

Sunday, August 6 (12pm – 2pm Eastern)

• Welcome with brief introductions
• Sampling Podcasts for Kids: What do you notice?
• Presentation #1: Formats and Structures (What speaks to you?)
• Presentation #2: Why Surveying Your Audience is a MUST!
• Review homework & what to expect during the week between sessions

Between Sessions

• Homework: Audience, format, and discovering your mentor podcasts. (Note: Your experience will be enriched if you have something to share during the small group sessions on August 13.)
• Thursday, August 10 at 7:30pm Eastern: Join the OPTIONAL drop-in Q & A with Matthew Winner to ask questions.
• Listen to the podcast resources provided in the classroom.

Part 2: Technology, Tools, & YOU!

Sunday, August 13, 12pm – 3pm Eastern

• 12pm – 12:45pm: Small Group Discussion of Homework (Matthew will float into rooms)
• Presentation #3: Evaluating Software & Hardware
• Presentation #4: How to tell when you are ready to record?
• Q & A and Farewell

Throughout the Workshop

• Access to resources in the virtual classroom
• Interaction with fellow storytellers and faculty

A note about workshop agendas and how they change and evolve.

COMMITMENT REQUIRED FOR THE BEST EXPERIENCE:

This intensive is best if you attend or watch all lectures. We recommend setting aside time to try the homework so that you can participate in the small group discussion during the program. (Note: If your schedule does not allow you to attend the live sessions and you would still like to register, that’s OK! You’ll have access to the recordings with closed captioning. They’re posted the day after the session, and they’ll be available through September 30, 2023.)

The Highlights Foundation strives for a safe and inclusive environment. You will have access to our Community Standards prior to the workshop where we ask for your respectful engagement with fellow creatives, including our faculty and staff.

Trying to figure out how this course fits into your schedule? Read some ideas about planning for the right level of commitment.

HOW IT IMPACTS KIDS:

Kids seek stories in many ways: books, television, movies, video games, and are now tuning into podcasts on a regular basis. We want to make stories for kids as rich as possible, no matter the medium.  This course will keep the child-listener at heart as you get to know the power of podcasts.

Why do we mention this? Learn about the Highlights Foundation mission.

RELATED RESOURCES

• https://www.matthewcwinner.com/blog
• https://www.highlightsfoundation.org/podcast/