What the Project Is
From April 11 to May 8, an annual subscription to WoW! News purchased equals a subscription to Soft Kids offered. WoW! News is the media for information aimed at 8-12 year-olds that inspires action. This is the world’s first solutions news media for kids aged 8-12, available in English and French, both online and on paper. The platform introduces children to people who are changing the world – those inspiring individuals developing solutions for people, societies, and the planet – and in doing so, it kindly nudges preteens, bolstering their confidence that they too can change their world… It is a project that brings inspiring stories, innovative ideas, and a splash of fun, catering especially to inquisitive young minds.
Main Benefit
Key figures and facts make it clear why the project is such a remarkable initiative:
- From April 11 to May 8, an annual subscription to WoW! News comes with a free subscription to Soft Kids.
- Designed for 8-12 year-olds, it offers information that truly inspires action.
- Awarded as one of the winners of the “Solutions Journalism Accelerator” project, an accolade supported and funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
- Provides access to over 80 topics covering the environment, inclusion, and living together, all presented in a fun, multimedia journey.
- Delivers a 36-page magazine each quarter, offering a new perspective on the world.
- Features regular briefs that share positive and unusual information to counter everyday negativity.
- Used in schools and by families alike, it helps restore balance to a negative view of today’s media headlines.
A Multimedia and Multilanguage Experience
WoW! News is available online and on paper, and in both English and French. This dual-language offering makes it accessible on a larger scale, allowing more children to enjoy content that not only entertains but also educates. With videos, podcasts, and illustrated texts woven into its fabric, the project transforms the traditional news format into a dynamic and interactive multimedia journey—a journey that’s designed to spark curiosity and creativity in the young audience.
An App that Inspires Action
The app goes beyond just delivering news. It introduces children to everyday heroes who are actively engaged in solving various global issues. These inspiring folk demonstrate that solutions arise from creativity, hard work, and a passionate desire to make a change. The presentation is intentionally lighthearted and accessible, using informal breaks… moments that allow children to reflect on the ideas and perhaps even dream a little. It’s all about making the learning process engaging and relatable.
Learning and Fun in Schools and Homes
WoW! News is not just applicable for individual readers; it is also a resource that finds its place in classrooms. Schools are increasingly turning to this innovative media to supplement traditional learning, using its rich tapestry of content to discuss topics like environmental conservation, social inclusion, and how living together harmoniously is essential in today’s world. The periodic 36-page magazine helps teachers illustrate global issues in a way that’s both fun and informative, ensuring that critical messages resonate with a generation constantly bombarded by 24/7 media headlines.
The Project Impact
- SDG 4: Quality Education – Promoting educational content through engaging multimedia formats.
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – By including diverse stories of people and solutions that focus on inclusive growth.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Addressing environmental topics and inspiring eco-friendly practices among the young audience.
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions – Providing balanced and positive insights that encourage a more peaceful worldview.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Collaborating with organizations such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, ensuring that the initiative is both supported and scalable.
Looking Ahead
Every quarter, a 36-page magazine emerges with a fresh perspective on the world, inviting readers to see beyond the surface… The project’s continued expansion, coupled with its use in schools and homes, shows that dynamic approaches in news media can indeed restore balance to a negative narrative. Regular briefs offer positive and unusual information, inviting children to engage with content that makes global issues feel approachable. The casual, engaging approach—highlighting real stories of transformation—fosters an environment where facts meet fun, and learning is seen as an exciting adventure. As the media landscape evolves, WoW! News stands as a beacon for transformative journalism and creative storytelling, ushering in a new era where young people are encouraged to see the world differently. The initiative not only entertains but empowers, making the challenges of today look like opportunities for tomorrow. Whether part of a school curriculum or a family’s weekend routine, it remains a vibrant reminder that inspiration can be found in every story, every action, and every shared moment of discovery.
