“Look for the helpers,” Mr. Rogers’ mother would tell him whenever his family learned about difficult news. Amid the serious challenges involved with the coronavirus pandemic, the world has many good people who want to help. Helpers might include first responders, volunteers, doctors or community members. All of the NewsHour videos in this lesson feature different kinds of helpers, all with uplifting or empathic stories.

Directions:

Decide which video you would like to watch individually or in groups. Read the news summaries, watch the video and answer the discussion questions.

Teacher’s note: Be sure to watch the videos before sharing with your students. If you are making plans for distance learning, take a look at our list of PBS resources that covers a variety of subjects for middle and high school students. 

April 14, 2020 videos and resource materials from PBS NewsHour.

Check out our Daily News Story collection, or find more at PBS NewsHour Extra.