An enthusiastic young reader from Durham Elementary, Coco Whitehurst, recently ventured into the world of broadcasting by guest hosting a podcast for the International Children’s Arts Network (ICAN). In her episode, she delves into the intricacies of being a librarian with Tigard Youth Librarian Holly Campbell-Polivka. The ICAN Become series empowers children to explore their interests and share their voices globally through radio programming. This initiative not only highlights career possibilities but also introduces kids to the art of broadcasting.
The ICAN program operates out of Portland, providing youth with an opportunity to create content that reflects their passions and curiosities. Through this platform, children engage in meaningful conversations with professionals, gaining insights into various fields while learning technical skills related to radio production. For Coco, the experience was both educational and inspiring, fueling her aspirations within the literary world.
A Budding Librarian's Perspective
Coco Whitehurst, an avid reader and second-grader at Durham Elementary, took on the role of a guest host for ICAN's podcast series. During her episode, she engaged in a lively discussion with Holly Campbell-Polivka, Tigard Youth Librarian. Their conversation encompassed more than just book recommendations; it explored the multifaceted aspects of working in a library environment. From managing diverse reading levels to fostering information literacy, Coco gained valuable insights into what it takes to be a successful librarian.
In addition to discussing professional responsibilities, Campbell-Polivka shared her journey into librarianship and emphasized the importance of connecting with young readers. She highlighted the necessity of guiding individuals towards reliable sources when seeking knowledge. Coco concluded the episode by summarizing key takeaways for listeners, encouraging them to consider future careers based on personal interests. Her enthusiasm resonated throughout the dialogue, showcasing her genuine admiration for libraries and literature.
Empowering Youth Through Broadcasting
ICAN Radio offers a unique platform where children can express themselves freely and explore potential career paths. Located in downtown Portland, the organization broadcasts youth-led programs and streams them online via KQAC 89.9 All Classical Radio. Development director Allison Fuller explained how ICAN Become allows young participants to lead the creative process, ensuring authentic content creation. By involving kids directly in decision-making processes, ICAN fosters environments where youthful perspectives thrive.
This innovative approach extends beyond traditional educational frameworks, integrating hands-on experiences in broadcasting technology. Participants like Coco receive comprehensive training sessions before recording episodes, familiarizing themselves with microphones, editing software, and studio etiquette. ICAN's Moonflower studio is specifically designed to accommodate younger audiences, featuring kid-sized furniture and interactive tools. These elements contribute to creating comfortable yet professional settings conducive to quality productions. Ultimately, ICAN aims to inspire self-confidence and creativity among its young contributors while sharing their stories worldwide.