Parents' Guide to

Sound it Out

By Debra Alvarado, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 8+

Inclusive and diverse vocabulary podcast.

Podcast Kids & Family A Kids Co. Average run time: 4 minutes
Sound it Out podcast artwork. The title of the show on a yellow background.

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What’s It About?

The SOUND IT OUT podcast illuminates potentially complicated vocabulary that kids are likely to hear or have heard, but may not really understood. Hosts Cat Petru and Matthew Winner define and explain terms related to important diverse social themes that impact kids and their families. Explanations are clear and respectful, but some concepts may be more complicated for younger listeners. Themes include science, community, and social-emotional learning. Some discussions focus on sensitive themes related to gender identity, bullying, people with disabilities, and the LGBTQ+ community. Episodes are supported by guest authors and activists who share personal perspective that helps kids relate and gives context to each term.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

Hosts Petru and Winner define and explain words with scientific, community-based, and social-emotional connections, breathing new meaning into them through the lens of current social context. Since kids may already have positive or negative associations with some of the vocabulary, it's significant that the hosts of the Sound it Out podcast ask them how the word makes them feel. Terms are discussed with clarity and acceptance so kids can gain new perspective. Petru draws comparisons for listeners to help them connect with and remember each word on a personal level and asks relevant questions that serve as great conversations between kids and trusted adults. Episodes regularly reinforce every person's right to fair, respectful, and dignified acceptance for who they are, actively supporting gender identity, religion, the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, people with disabilities, and people of color. In Sound it Out, the bottom line always emphasizes that what we say and how we say it matters.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how Sound It Out encourages listeners to learn more about the words and terms they hear on a daily basis. What does it mean to be curious? Is there a word you often hear that you don't know the meaning of?

  • Families can talk about the courage it takes to stand up to people who are doing or saying something you believe is wrong. When we defend ourselves or others, what are we saying about ourselves? Why is courage such an important character strength?

  • Being part of a community that drives change requires action, and activism often starts with just one voice. How can you use your voice as an instrument of power to effect positive change?

  • It's important to have trusted family and friends to talk with during celebrations as well as hard times. What can this type of teamwork provide for you when you're feeling afraid or vulnerable?

  • How does it feel when your feelings are hurt? How can you tell when someone else is feeling that way? What is empathy and what does it mean to be empathic?

Podcast Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

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