Last night, the kids of Kid Nation killed, butchered and cooked two chickens. It was some of the most interesting TV I have seen in a while.
They didn't have to kill the chickens. They debated it and a majority decided that they wanted meat in their diets. Three girls protested by locking themselves in the chicken coop and refusing to come out. Eventually, they worked through their problems and conceded for the sake of the community. Greg killed the chickens and Sophia helped him gut them and cook them.
I really thought I would hate this show. After all, I hate every other reality show - why not this? I think the answer lies in the kids. Before Kid Nation, I was ambivalent about children, but now I am changed. I enjoy watching these kids. They are smart and funny. On the whole, they act more mature than the contestants on "adult" reality shows.
Kid Nation is not a show to watch with a jaded mind. Not only is it about kids, it is pretty much being made for kids. It is very family friendly and conservative (not politically conservative, but socially traditional – if anyone can make that distinction any more). When I was a kid, I would have loved this show. Of course, I do love this show....anyway.
I only write this because a lot of people made up their mind about this show before ever seeing it. There's been a lot of claims about abuse and exploitation. After watching the show, I just don't see it. These kids can go home if and when they want. Sure, there are hardships like cold and bad food, but most, if not all,of the kids seem to actually be enjoying the opportunity to challenge themselves.
