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Naming kids in a story

Discussion in 'Journalism topics only' started by forever_town, Nov 4, 2007.

  1. forever_town

    forever_town Well-Known Member

    I had one of my interns doing a story about my county's register of wills donating school supplies to three children who lost their mothers. One is 16, one is 15 and one is 10.

    Is there a problem if we name the children in the story?
     
  2. I wouldn't do it unless the father or guardian says it's OK. Did you actually talk to the children? If not, definitely don't do it.
     
  3. forever_town

    forever_town Well-Known Member

    He didn't include the names in the story, but included them afterwards just in case. I suggested he talk to the guardian(s) first.

    He talked to the kids, but I haven't.
     
  4. Cansportschick

    Cansportschick Active Member

    I'd ask guardians permission to name children in story. Then, I would only say first names if permission is granted.
     
  5. huntsie

    huntsie Active Member

    I don't think I would. Kids -- particularly 15 and 16 year-olds -- might not want to be identified as "charity cases" regardless of circumstances. Is it key to the story that they be identified?
     
  6. farmerjerome

    farmerjerome Active Member

    Just use their ages.
     
  7. awriter

    awriter Active Member

    If the kids and their guardians are OK with it, I see no problem.
     
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