Did you know that kids ages 8-12 in the US spend a staggering 4-6 hours a day on screens, while teens are clocking up to 9 hours outside of schoolwork? Whether binge-watching the latest series, playing games, or chatting with friends, screens are a significant part of kids’ lives today. But here’s the catch: while screens can entertain, educate, and keep kids busy, too much screen time can lead to serious challenges, from sleep issues to social struggles. It’s a digital world — but how much is too much, and how can we help them navigate this ever-evolving media landscape?
Enter Media Stamped, an exciting new docu-series created in partnership with Global Citizen and Sinking Ship Entertainment. This series is designed to empower kids and parents to more thoughtfully and responsibly engage with the media. Driven by a mission to create positive social change through media, we can inspire and educate future generations to approach media with social awareness, empathy, and critical thinking. This series was born from the belief that kids need the tools to understand what they see on screen, why it matters, and how it shapes their perceptions and decisions.
Hosted by Nicole Stamp, a renowned writer, TV host, and media expert, Media Stamped takes a docu-style approach to examining the complex media landscape. Stamp’s charisma and expertise make her an ideal guide as she explores the many layers of today’s media, breaking down tough subjects in a way that’s accessible, engaging, and fun for kids.
What to Expect
Each episode tackles a unique topic designed to help kids (and their parents!) develop media literacy skills. The series covers timely and relevant themes such as online safety, the influence of social media, spotting misinformation, and understanding pop culture’s impact. Through a mix of informative commentary, real-world examples, and relatable pop culture references, Media Stamped encourages young viewers to think critically about the media they consume.
What sets it apart from other educational programs? The show strikes the perfect balance between being light-hearted and serious, mixing comedic moments with essential lessons. The goal is to make learning about media fun without sacrificing depth. Whether analyzing the latest viral video or breaking down the science behind social media algorithms, Stamp’s approachable hosting style makes complex topics digestible and entertaining for kids of all ages.
A Tool for Co-Viewing and Parent-Child Conversations
Media Stamped is designed to be a perfect opportunity for parents and kids to watch and learn together. As adults, we often feel disconnected from the digital world our children are navigating. This program bridges that gap by offering a space for parents to engage in conversations with their kids about media, technology, and online safety.
Each episode provides valuable insights for kids and equips caregivers with the knowledge and language to discuss important topics with their children. For example, after watching an episode on identifying misinformation online, you and your child can discuss practical strategies for spotting fake news or managing digital content responsibly. These discussions help both kids and parents stay informed and empowered in an age where media literacy is more important than ever.
Critical Thinking and Media Literacy for the Digital Age
In today’s media environment, where content is produced and shared rapidly, it’s easy for kids to get lost in the noise. With so many voices, platforms, and opinions, how can young people discern fact from fiction? Media Stamped teaches children to approach media critically, encouraging them to question what they see, who created it, why it was made, and what message it’s trying to send.
For instance, one episode explores the impact of social media influencers, explaining how these figures craft their brands and how their content might affect their followers. Another episode delves into how movies, TV shows, and advertising shape societal norms and expectations, helping kids understand that media isn’t just a reflection of reality — it’s often a curated version designed to elicit specific responses. By the end of each episode, kids gain valuable skills to analyze media more effectively, helping them become informed, responsible consumers of digital content.
Going Deeper with Supplementary Materials
For those who want to extend their learning experience, Media Stamped offers supplementary materials and curriculum for each episode. These resources engage both kids and parents in further discussions, exercises, and actions that deepen their understanding of the topics explored. Whether you’re a teacher, a homeschool parent, or just a family looking for ways to reinforce the lessons learned, these materials provide an interactive way to build on each episode’s messages.
The curriculum is designed not only to inform but also to inspire action. After watching an episode on online safety, for instance, you might find tips for setting up parental controls or engaging in a family conversation about responsible social media use. The goal is to empower kids and families with the tools they need to navigate the digital world confidently and safely.
Why Media Stamped Matters
Media Stamped isn’t just another kids’ series — it’s a vital resource for the digital age. Media literacy has never been more important in a world where media shapes much of how we see ourselves, each other, and the world. Media Stamped empowers kids and parents to navigate this world together, fostering skills that will help them consume content and understand and influence it in meaningful ways.
As parents, we can’t always protect our kids from the vast and sometimes overwhelming world of digital media. But we can help them build the tools to navigate it safely, critically, and responsibly. With Media Stamped, that journey begins with a conversation. So, gather your family, tune in to this exciting new series, and start a dialogue that could change the way your child interacts with the media.