It’s all child’s say
DON’T worry, this is not just another “cute kids do funny things” type show. And there’s no Stephen Mulhern involved.
Instead, this new six-part series looks promisingly like an uplifting and entertaining peek at how youngsters view today’s world.
Aged six to 11, 70 kids from different parts of the country have been followed by cameras, or given them to use at home, so we can find out what they really think and feel about their lives, beginning in this first episode by discussing love and hate.
Their offerings – which prove surprisingly mature at times – are rarely what you’d predict. Eight-year-old Abigail’s parents are getting married, but she’s hardly excited. “Instead of stuff that I need, they’re spending all their money on the wedding,” she frowns.
A team of psychologists have also devised challenges for the kids – such as will they eat their most loathed food if it means their friend gets to enjoy their favourite treat? In inner-city Bradford, meanwhile, we witness a group aged 9 to 11 debating love versus hate. “Love is stronger,” insists one boy, “because if you love someone you will do anything at all to fight for them.” But another lad points out that hate is necessary because “people in the army need hate to kill the people doing the wrong things”.
The sad conversation between three youngsters all missing their absent dads will bring a lump to your throat. “Dads will always be there for you, even when they’re not actually there. You’ve got their memory in your heart.”