Encouraging Youthful Joy: A New TV Show by Akron Children’s Hospital

Jan 28, 2025 at 6:28 AM

A fresh television series, "More Childhood, Please," aims to enrich the lives of young viewers. Hosted by Lily Goodwin, 10, and Rhys Thomas, 13, each episode delves into various topics relevant to children. The inaugural episode, which aired on January 25th on WKYC, explored the impact of screen time on kids. Through engaging interviews with medical professionals and interactive challenges, the show combines education with entertainment, focusing on creativity, play, and fun. The hosts share their personal experiences, making the content relatable and enjoyable for both children and parents.

Engaging Content and Interactive Challenges

The first segment of "More Childhood, Please" introduces viewers to the dynamic duo of Lily Goodwin and Rhys Thomas. These youthful hosts bring a unique blend of energy and thoughtfulness to the show. Each episode tackles a different issue affecting today's youth, starting with screen time in the debut episode. This topic resonates deeply with many families, as it addresses the balance between technology use and traditional childhood activities. The inclusion of two interactive challenges highlights the practical application of the discussed themes. One challenge involves a family navigating a weekend without smartphones, while another showcases teenagers using screens creatively to produce a short film.

The show's approach is innovative, combining expert insights from doctors at Akron Children’s Hospital with real-life scenarios. The first challenge, where a family of six shares a flip phone and digital cameras, emphasizes the importance of face-to-face interactions and simple pleasures. Meanwhile, the second challenge demonstrates that screens can be tools for creativity rather than just distractions. By presenting these contrasting perspectives, the show encourages viewers to think critically about their own screen habits. The hosts' candid discussions add a layer of authenticity, as they relate their personal experiences with screen time, making the content more relatable and engaging for the audience.

Empowering Young Voices and Promoting Traditional Childhood

Beyond its entertaining format, "More Childhood, Please" serves a deeper purpose. The show aims to empower young voices and promote the traditional aspects of childhood such as creativity, ingenuity, and play. Robin Clark, director of marketing at Akron Children’s Hospital, explains that the program seeks to reconnect children with the joys of simpler times. With Lily and Rhys leading the way, complex issues are broken down into kid-friendly explanations, ensuring that the content remains accessible and enjoyable. The show also incorporates humor, jokes, and dance breaks to keep the atmosphere light and fun.

Lily Goodwin and Rhys Thomas not only host but also embody the target audience. Their firsthand experience with screen time and other modern challenges adds credibility to the show's message. Lily, known for her energetic personality, complements Rhys's thoughtful demeanor, creating a well-rounded dynamic on screen. The producers recognize the potential impact of this pairing, noting how effortlessly they connect with diverse audiences. Future episodes will explore additional topics like emotional regulation, the benefits of nature, and the pitfalls of overscheduling extracurricular activities. By addressing these issues through an engaging and educational lens, "More Childhood, Please" strives to inspire a generation to embrace the best of both worlds—modern technology and timeless childhood traditions.