Lauren Gardner

In this discussion, Lauren Gardner, a Politico reporter specializing in FDA coverage, dives into the complex landscape of COVID-19 vaccinations for young children. She highlights the slow approval processes affecting kids under five, revealing the emotional toll on concerned parents. The conversation also explores how the pandemic has impacted infant development and preschoolers’ social skills due to missed educational opportunities. Gardner provides valuable insights into vaccine hesitancy and the challenges faced by parents eager for their children's protection.

Anya Kamenetz, NPR's education correspondent and author of "The Stolen Year," discusses the challenges of sending kids back to school amid the Delta variant. She shares insights on the emotional debates surrounding safety measures like masks and the push for vaccinations. Lauren Gardner from Politico dives into the FDA's approval process for children's vaccines, shedding light on the timeline and safety concerns. They explore how parental sentiment and political pressures shape the school safety landscape in these uncertain times.