Dr. Kenneth Haller, a pediatrican at Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Saint Louis University in St. Louis, Missouri, talked with Joseph Planta about the Harry Potter phenomenon, and how it’s a good tool in broaching developmental issues with children. Also discussed was how to address such tragedies, such as last week’s bombings in Britain and other violence that’s in the news.

Text of introduction by Joseph Planta:

With the latest Harry Potter novel (Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince) hitting bookstores this week, I’m joined by pediatrican Kenneth Haller, M.D., who’s on the line to talk about the J.K. Rowling series, and how he thinks it can be used to broach touchy subjects with children. We’ll also discuss why some would like to ban Harry Potter.

Also, how young is too young. When is it appropriate to talk to young children about current events, like last week’s bombing in Britain and conflict in Iraq and elsewhere.

Kenneth Haller is assistant professor of pediatrics at St. Louis University, and a pediatrican at Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, where he joins me this morning. Please welcome to THECOMMENTARY.CA, Kenneth Haller; Good morning, Dr. Haller.

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