We began the Research & Insights program in order to share the latest and most impactful insights from the invaluable research we are seeing across kids and family industries. We believe that by staying informed about the latest findings it will enable us to develop the most meaningful and impactful media for kids and families.
Expanding Boyhood: New Pathways in Children’s Media
This report examines how boys are portrayed across today’s children’s media—and why that portrayal matters. Drawing on research, expert insights, and standout examples, we explore what it takes to represent boys more fully: as emotional, imaginative, complex individuals with diverse identities and possibilities.
From expanding character traits to challenging outdated stereotypes, this report offers concrete guidance for creators, educators, and executives alike. It’s not about replacing one version of masculinity with another—it’s about creating space for every boy to see himself reflected, respected, and reimagined across the stories and spaces that shape childhood.
Spotlight Edition: A First Look at Our Upcoming Report
Boys have long been at the center of children’s media — but too often, their stories reflect a narrow view of what it means to be male. This Spotlight Edition offers an early look at insights from our forthcoming full report, launching next week.
While male characters often dominate screen time, they are rarely portrayed with emotional depth, meaningful friendships, or room to grow. This preview explores how creators, educators, and media leaders can help boys break free from outdated molds and discover new ways to connect, care, and lead.
Representation matters. In children’s and family media, it plays a pivotal role in shaping a child’s sense of self-worth and understanding of the world. The CMA Race and Ethnicity Playbook explores how inclusive storytelling fosters identity development, promotes empathy, and inspires aspirations for all children. This guide highlights the profound impact of seeing positive portrayals of marginalized groups in media—reinforcing that every child is valued, respected, and capable. Designed for creators and industry leaders, the playbook provides actionable insights to build authentic, empowering narratives that reflect the rich diversity of our world. Together, we believe that staying informed about the latest findings can enable us to develop the most meaningful and impactful media for kids and families.
An inspiring conversation with the researchers and the activists working at the intersection of kids and climate change.
Panelists:
Laura Schifter| Aspen Institute
Nicole Ardoin| Professor, Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability
Sarah Newman| Climate Mental Health Network
An empowering conversation about GREEN content
across multiple media verticals.
Panelists:
Tovah Barocas | Earth Rangers
Meredith Milton | NRDC (National Resources Defense Council)
Allison Begalman | Youth Entertainment Activists
Jacob Corvidae | Rocky Mountain Institute
Our goal in developing this report is to raise awareness about the teen mental health crisis. We have aggregated compelling research, articles and thought leadership in order to provide insights, information and tools on this vital topic. We hope that media professionals, parents, teachers, and teens can utilize the resources and recommendations outlined throughout this report to support teens and drive positive change in 2023, and beyond.
Our first Teen Mental Health week panel!
Yalda Uhls, Founder & Executive Director at the Center for Scholars & Storytellers, UCLA and Richard Weissbourd, Senior Lecturer at Harvard Graduate School of Education & the Kennedy School of Government shared their knowledge and insights on the teen mental health crisis.
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