BBC Newsround: Making the News Make Sense for Children
Introduction: Why bbc newsround matters
bbc newsround delivers news tailored to children and young people, helping them understand current events in an age-appropriate way. In a media landscape where stories move fast and can be worrying, Newsround’s mix of bulletins, online features and social content aims to inform while supporting young viewers. Its long history and evolving digital presence make it a key resource for families, educators and children seeking clear, accessible journalism.
Main body: History, services and reach
Origins and broadcast
Newsround began as Craven’s News Round and first broadcast on 4 April 1972. The early programme was transmitted live on BBC One at 17:20 and launched with a small team and limited equipment. John Craven, one of the early presenters, has recalled the pressure of those first transmissions, underlining the modest origins of what later became an established children’s news programme.
Broadcast and online services
Today Newsround offers daily bulletins available on BBC iPlayer and a website that invites young people to take part in votes and share their views on news stories. The site organises stories into accessible strands such as Happy News and Strange News, featuring lighter and unusual items — examples include stories about giant pandas, LEGO art and playful items like a Santa dance-off or diving chess. The programme also provides guidance, including advice if viewers feel upset by the news, recognising the emotional impact some stories can have on children.
Social media and audience engagement
Newsround has expanded onto social platforms to meet young audiences where they are. Its TikTok account, @bbcnewsround, has attracted significant engagement, recorded as 3.5 million likes and around 135,000 followers. Popular short-form videos cover topical stories and help break down complex subjects into digestible segments for younger viewers.
Conclusion: Significance and outlook
bbc newsround continues to play a vital role in media literacy for children, combining traditional broadcasts with online resources and social media to explain the news responsibly. As digital habits evolve, the programme’s cross-platform approach and guidance on handling upsetting stories suggest it will remain an important tool for parents and educators helping young people navigate current events. Continued investment in accessible, age-appropriate reporting will likely keep Newsround relevant for future generations.
