About History’s Kids
What is included in each episode of History’s Kids?
Each episode of History’s Kids explores a different historical event, as told through the firsthand account of someone who was really there when they were a kid! Episodes run under 20 minutes and are released every other Tuesday wherever you get your podcasts. Listeners get to hear real audio from real people who lived through moments in history when they were kids. We also share book recommendations and more facts about topics kids love.
Who created History’s Kids?
History’s Kids was created by Lorraine Leddy, a school district administrator in New York State. Her work is shaped by nearly a decade spent as an elementary classroom teacher and literacy coach, and a belief that every student deserves to see themselves in stories. Lorraine’s work has been published in the Language Arts journal. She has also been featured on the podcasts Teacher’s Corner from Stenhouse and Corridor Conversations from the National Council for Teachers of English.
Why did Lorraine create History’s Kids?
When Lorraine taught 3rd and 4th graders, she noticed how much they loved historical fiction written from a kid’s point of view. That got her wondering: What if they could hear from real kids who lived through history? Lorraine wanted to find a way for history to feel real to kids, not distant. While kids can get basic facts from textbooks and other research materials, a podcast featuring firsthand accounts brings the story to life and helps kids understand the real impact of events of the past. Lorraine hopes every episode of History’s Kids sparks inquiry and wonder for kids.
Can teachers use History’s Kids in the classroom?
Yes! Episodes are short enough to use in the social studies, science, or literacy block. Each episode is carefully researched for historical accuracy, which makes it easy to pair episodes with lessons you’re already teaching. Season one covers events like the eruption of Mount St. Helens, the Civil Rights Movement, World War II, and more, meaning upper elementary and middle school teachers can find episodes that match the content covered in each grade level.
What ages are History’s Kids episodes best for?
History’s Kids is written for kids ages 8 and up. As with any media for kids, we recommend caregivers and teachers preview the content of episodes before sharing with children to ensure the content is appropriate for the particular children in your life. Show notes indicate topics discussed in each episode to help you assess whether an episode is a good fit for you.
How does History’s Kids find people to interview?
Lorraine finds people to interview by reading newspaper archives, contacting historical organizations, reading books, and listening to recorded oral histories. She also hears from listeners about people in their lives who have stories to tell! If there’s someone in your life who lived through a historical event when they were a kid, contact us.
Who else is a part of the team behind History’s Kids?
History’s Kids is a group effort! Episodes are co-hosted by Lorraine and voice actor James Brown Jr. Season one includes audio editing and sound design by Rebecca Cunningham and Ben Kammer. Episodes are directed by Barrett Leddy. Where possible, each episode is reviewed by content-area experts to ensure historical and scientific accuracy.
How can I support the show or get in touch?
You can support History’s Kids by subscribing on Patreon, leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, or following the show on Instagram and Facebook! To get in touch directly, contact us here.