Some negative language used in expressing frustration or for comedic effect. No swear words, but in one episode the host uses the censor sound repeatedly to pretend like they're swearing.
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Some ads at the beginning of the show to listen on Amazon Prime.
Educational Value
a lot
Informs listeners about the history and current state of climate change and climate activism. Breaks down the complex science and policies behind climate change and global warming to help younger listeners better understand the climate crisis.
Positive Role Models
a lot
Professors, scientists, and activists are brought in to discuss topics such as the Paris Climate Agreement and climate injustices, each serving as positive informative role models in the climate crisis. Listeners are encouraged to be activists and take part in larger climate movements from inspirational experts. Many of the guests are teens doing activist work, which may be inspirational for young listeners.
Positive Messages
some
Some positive and motivating messaging weaved into the informative episodes. Messages include: encouraging people to work together with others to change the world, doing our part to combat climate change, and promoting climate justice. Using communication to come to an agreement and understanding of other perspectives is a frequent theme.
Diverse Representations
a little
Guests brought on the show come from a wide-range of backgrounds, representing different perspectives on climate issues. Many women activists are guests and some men. Most discussions tend to lean more towards western countries like Canada or the United States. Diversity and inclusion are not explicit themes in most episodes.
Parents need to know that The Big Melt breaks down the climate crisis in a way that's specific to tweens and teens, to help educate them about climate change and encourage them to take action. Through expert guests, outside perspectives from other teens, and scientific sources, this podcast helps all listeners better understand climate change, global warming, and the politics surrounding it in a way that's digestible. Topics are complex and could be upsetting or difficult to understand for younger children. This could be a good podcast to listen to as a family and spark important discussions.
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What’s It About?
THE BIG MELT breaks down everything teens need to know about the climate crisis in a conversational yet informative format. After talking about current climate discussions with her dad, sibling, or a guest, host Sarah Marks goes into the history and science behind a particular aspect of climate change, such as the ozone layer or the United Nations Climate Change Conference. Episodes are geared towards tween and teen listeners, expressing relatable frustrations and anxieties about climate change, while also giving teens ways they can get involved in combatting it.
This podcast does a good job of explaining difficult and advanced aspects of climate change in ways anyone can understand. The Big Melt helps teens get a better understanding of the ongoing climate crisis while also encouraging them to make a difference and work together towards solutions. Some episodes are slow to start, which could make them hard to get into for some younger listeners. This is great way to keep the whole family informed on climate issues and climate justice. With such a relevant topic, it's unfortunate they haven't posted new content since 2021.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how The Big Melt discusses various ways we can take action towards the climate crisis. What are some ways you as a family can be more environmentally friendly and help be part of the solution?
Communication is a big part of each episode, as the host Sarah discusses issues and disagreements with her dad, listen and learns from experts, and encourages other teens to share their perspectives. Why do you think communication is an important character strength when it comes to social issues such as climate change?
Were you familiar with climate change before this podcast? What do you remember first learning about the climate crisis? How has this podcast helped you understand climate change?
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.
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.