Reading With Your Kids Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Ferel Cats and Medieval Mysteries Dec 03, 2024

Show notes

Join us for a captivating conversation with two talented authors who are inspiring young readers through their unique stories! First up, we welcome back Antony Kolenc., the brilliant mind behind the beloved Harwood Mysteries series. Tony shares the exciting details of the latest installment, "The Devil's Ransom," which takes readers on a thrilling journey from 12th century England all the way to Portugal during the Third Crusade. As Tony explains, each book in the Harwood Mysteries series blends historical fiction, suspense, and moral themes, making them a hit with teens and families alike. We dive into the fascinating cultural dynamics explored in "The Devil's Ransom," as Tony's characters navigate the complex relationship between Christians and Muslims during this pivotal moment in history. But the literary fun doesn't stop there! We also welcome the delightful Scarlet Montana, author of the charming children's book "Lunch with Blue Kitty." Scarlet shares the heartwarming story behind her feline-inspired tale, and her passion for rescuing and caring for cats shines through. Scarlet's insights on the importance of responsible pet ownership and her work with feral cat colonies are sure to inspire listeners to get involved in their own communities. Plus, she offers fantastic tips for having meaningful conversations with kids about the joys and responsibilities of pet ownership. Whether you're a fan of medieval adventures or cuddly kitty tales, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in to discover how these authors are using their craft to engage young minds, foster compassion, and bring history to life in captivating ways. It's a literary adventure you won't want to miss!

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Killer Bread, Belly Butterflies and the Power of Kidlit! Dec 01, 2024

Show notes

On the latest episode of the Reading with Your Kids podcast, host Jed Doherty had the pleasure of chatting with two inspiring children's book authors - Jill Lynette Piazza and Trish Bruno. These talented writers are using their platforms to tackle important issues in a thoughtful, age-appropriate way. First up, Jill shared the story behind her book "Belly Rise," which aims to increase awareness around childhood anxiety. As Jill explained, the title refers to how anxiety can start in the gut and rise up, causing physical and emotional distress. With the pandemic exacerbating mental health challenges for many young people, Jill's book provides a relatable mirror for kids experiencing these feelings, while also offering coping strategies like deep breathing and changing your environment. Jed and Jill had an insightful discussion about the rise in childhood anxiety, exploring factors like social media, academic pressure, and the need for early intervention and education. Jill bravely opened up about her own personal journey with anxiety, sharing how she found support through therapy and medication. Her goal is to destigmatize these conversations and empower kids to advocate for their mental wellbeing. Next, Trish Bruno joined the show to shine a light on her book "Killer Bread." While the title may sound ominous, the story is actually an important educational tool about the dangers of feeding bread to birds. As an experienced wildlife rescuer, Trish has seen firsthand how seemingly harmless bread can actually become toxic and deadly for our feathered friends. Trish shared fascinating insights into the anatomy of birds like pelicans, and offered practical advice for families who want to safely interact with and support local wildlife. Instead of bread, she recommends offering bird seed, fruits, and veggies - a much healthier treat that won't put our avian neighbors at risk. Whether tackling anxiety or animal welfare, these children's book authors are using their platforms to make a real difference. Their heartfelt stories and passion for educating young readers are truly inspiring.

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Tackling Childhood Poverty with Books and Advocacy Nov 29, 2024

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In this insightful episode of "Reading with Your Kids," host Jed Doherty sits down with Dr. Dipesh Navsaria from the renowned Reach Out and Read program to explore the critical connection between poverty and early relational health. As Dr. Navsaria explains, Reach Out and Read works with pediatric clinicians to incorporate book-sharing into routine check-ups, empowering parents to engage in this vital activity. But the challenges faced by low-income families go beyond just accessing books. "Poverty interferes with the ability of parents to do the job of high-quality parenting that they'd like to do," he shares, highlighting the impact on the loving, caring relationships that are so crucial in a child's early years. Jed and Dr. Navsaria delve into practical solutions, from modeling effective book-sharing techniques to addressing the root causes of poverty through policy changes. "We have answers. We have solutions," Dr. Navsaria asserts, pointing to successful initiatives like the UK's "war on child poverty" that lifted millions of children out of hardship. The conversation also features a chat with children's book author Kara Eng, whose delightful story "Sweet and Sour" celebrates resilience, diversity, and the power of representation. Kara shares her passion for empowering young readers to take pride in their cultural backgrounds and use their creativity to overcome challenges. Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply someone who cares about the well-being of children, this episode of "Reading with Your Kids" is a must-listen. Discover how organizations like Reach Out and Read and authors like Kara Eng are making a real difference, and find inspiration to get involved in supporting early childhood development in your own community.

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My Grandfather's Garage Of Wonder Nov 28, 2024

Show notes

If you're looking for some delightful new children's books to share with the young readers in your life, this episode of the Reading with Your Kids podcast has you covered! Host Jed Doherty sits down with a talented trio of children's book authors to dive into their captivating stories. First up, Veera Hiranandani discusses her heartwarming picture book "The Greatest," which was inspired by her beloved grandfather. Veera paints a vivid picture of her grandfather as a larger-than-life, creative soul who made ordinary moments feel magical for his grandkids. She explains how the book aims to capture that special intergenerational bond and the way kids can see the extraordinary in the everyday. Next, mystery writer F.P. LaRue shares the scoop on her Scary Shivers series, which follows a group of middle-grade sleuths as they solve spooky adventures. F.P. reveals the appeal of these page-turning tales, noting that kids love being scared in a safe, imaginative way. She also shares tips for parents on how to engage kids in reading these stories together. Rounding out the episode is Lakshmi Thamizhmani, who introduces her vibrant children's book. "Ganesha Goes Green" that tackles the environmental impact of traditional festival celebrations. Whether your young readers are drawn to magical grandfathers, spooky mysteries, or multicultural celebrations, this episode of Reading with Your Kids has something to delight every literary taste. Tune in to discover your family's next favorite children's book authors and stories!

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Unlocking The Mysteries Of Autism Nov 26, 2024

Show notes

In this captivating episode of "Reading with Your Kids," host Jed Doherty delves into two fascinating topics - the latest insights on autism and the inspiring Harmony Meets the World book series. First, Jed sits down with Taiba Bajar, the driving force behind Autism Brain Empowerment and the author of "Unlock Autism." Taiba shares her personal journey, from her unexpected career change after being diagnosed with autism and dyspraxia, to her determination to find holistic solutions for her own son's autism journey. Taiba explains the alarming rise in autism diagnoses, attributing it to both increased awareness and a true increase in prevalence. She passionately discusses her "Seven-Step Autism Action Plan," which covers everything from optimizing oxytocin to detoxifying the body and strengthening the cerebellum. Listeners will be inspired by Taiba's dedication and the remarkable progress her son has made through her innovative, personalized approach. The conversation then shifts to the delightful Harmony Meets the World book series, created by twin sisters Erin and Jamie Schonauer. Harmony, the series' young protagonist, uses magical binoculars to travel the globe and explore diverse cultural festivals, from Peru's Inti Raymi to India's Diwali. Erin and Jamie share their love for research and their mission to open children's hearts and minds to new cultures. Listeners will be captivated by the sisters' enthusiasm and the educational yet entertaining nature of their books. Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply someone who cares about the well-being of children, this episode of "Reading with Your Kids" offers a unique blend of insights, inspiration, and cultural exploration. Tune in to discover new perspectives on autism and the power of literature to celebrate our shared humanity.

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Empowering Neeurodiverse Children Through KidLit Nov 24, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Reading With Your Kids we dive into the Inspiring World of Inclusive Children's Literature If you're a parent, educator, or simply someone who cares about creating a more understanding and accepting world, this episode is a must-listen. Join Jed Doherty as he sits down with two talented children's authors, Jayme Branaghand Farial English, to explore the power of storytelling in promoting empathy and supporting neurodiverse learners. First, we meet Jayme Branagh, the author of "Squirrel's Four Square Solution." Jayme shares the backstory of her book, which introduces characters with neurodivergent traits, like ADHD. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing these behaviors and providing tailored strategies to help kids thrive, rather than relying solely on medication. As a seasoned elementary school counselor, Jayme offers invaluable insights into the challenges and successes of inclusive education models. She candidly discusses the need for more resources and training to truly support all students, while also highlighting the transformative impact of empowering neurodiverse kids and their families. Next, we dive into Farial English's debut picture book, "Charlie and Sophie's Great Escape." Farial's heartwarming tale is inspired by her own border collie pups and their real-life adventures. But the book also serves as a poignant tribute to her beloved dog, Charlie, who passed away too soon. Farial's passion for capturing the joy and challenges of pet ownership shines through, reminding us that even in grief, the love we share can leave a lasting legacy. Whether you're an educator seeking fresh ideas, a parent navigating the joys and complexities of raising a neurodiverse child, or simply someone who believes in the power of inclusive storytelling, this episode is a must-listen. Get ready to be inspired, empowered, and maybe even reach for the tissues as you explore the transformative world of children's literature that celebrates diversity in all its forms.

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Repairing The World, One Small Spark At A Time Nov 22, 2024

Show notes

Join us for an inspiring conversation with children's book authors Ruth Spiro and Carole Gerber! These talented writers are sharing their passion for spreading messages of kindness, community, and environmental appreciation through their delightful books. First, we chat with Ruth Spiro about her new picture book "One Small Spark: A Tikkun Olam Story." Ruth explains how this book explores the universal concept of "tikkun olam" - repairing the world through small acts of goodness. She emphasizes that this isn't just a "Jewish" idea, but a fundamental human value found across cultures. Ruth's lyrical storytelling and the stunning illustrations bring this message to life in a way that resonates with readers of all backgrounds. We also dive into Carole Gerber's beautiful new book "A Tree for Me," which follows a father and son on a nature walk, discovering the wonders of different trees. Carole shares how her own childhood memories of exploring the outdoors with her dad inspired this heartwarming tale. She beautifully captures the magic of sharing a love of nature with the next generation. Both authors share their journeys to becoming successful children's book writers, proving it's never too late to pursue your passions. They also offer insights on the importance of reading aloud with kids, creating special family memories, and using books to build community and understanding. Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply someone who appreciates the power of storytelling, you'll be inspired by the creativity and heart-warming messages in this episode. Discover new books to share with the young readers in your life and learn how authors like Ruth and Carole are making a difference one small spark at a time.

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Whimsical Worlds & Authentic Affirmations Nov 21, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Reading With Your Kids host Jed Doherty had a chance to catch up with he queen of whimsy, Sheri Fink. Sheri told us all about her latest children's book, Magenta. This 17th book from Sheri is truly special - it features elaborate illustrations and a mesmerizing holographic rainbow gold cover that dances in the light. Sheri shared the creative process behind Magenta's stunning visuals, explaining how she collaborated with her printer to bring her vision to life. "I wanted something really special, not just a basic gold foil," Sheri told us. After seeing samples, they landed on the magical holographic effect that makes the cover seem to shimmer. The story of Magenta follows a lost kitten who discovers a magical cottage and gets enchanted with powers by a young sorceress. Sheri's whimsical tales always spark kids' imaginations, and Magenta is no exception. She loves helping young readers imagine themselves in fantastical situations and learn valuable life lessons. Sheri also opened up about how becoming a mom has changed her writing process. Instead of marathon sessions, she's had to become a "sprinter," efficiently using short windows of time to write. But she's found that this has made her an even better author.

Next, we chatted with sister duo Sharmilla Fassbender and her sister Sharminey Selvanathan about their uplifting picture book, Fantastically Me. This celebration of self-love and authenticity is so important in today's world of social media and constant comparison. Shaminey explained that the book's message is simple: "Life is better when you're yourself, authentically yourself." She and Shamilla want to empower kids to be proud of who they are, not try to be someone else. The sisters have a wonderfully collaborative writing process, taking turns drafting the rhyming text and combining their ideas in a shared document. And they see their meetups as joyful family time, enjoying the "chaos" of parenting young kids. Both Sheri and the Fantastically Me authors are creating books that celebrate individuality and inspire young readers. It was a pleasure chatting with these talented, passionate writers.

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Sailing The Seas Of Literacy Nov 19, 2024

Show notes

Ahoy, mateys! This episode of the Reading with Your Kids podcast is a treasure trove of inspiration and adventure. We're setting sail with two incredible guests who are using their passions to inspire the next generation of readers and STEM enthusiasts. First up, we've got the one and only Jennifer Swanson, our "Admiral of Adventure" and the "Dean of all things STEM and STEAM." Jennifer is here to tell us all about her brand new book, "Up Periscope," which shines a light on the incredible story of Ray Montague - a pioneering female engineer who revolutionized ship design for the Navy. Jennifer's infectious enthusiasm for science and engineering is sure to spark curiosity in kids (and adults!) of all ages. But the adventure doesn't stop there! We're also joined by the legendary Captain Kidd Carson, the mastermind behind the "Captain Kidd Carson's Bookaneerss" literacy program. Keith's passion for reading was ignited by his own daughter's love of books, and now he's on a mission to make reading fun and engaging for kids through the power of pirate tales. With his custom-built pirate ship mobility scooter and treasure trove of pirate-themed books, Keith is bringing the high seas to classrooms and libraries everywhere. Whether you're a landlubber or a seasoned sailor, this episode has something for everyone. Dive in and discover the magic that happens when you combine literacy, STEM, and a healthy dose of swashbuckling adventure. So grab your eye patch, hoist the sails, and get ready to set sail on a journey of learning and discovery!

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Helping Your Kids Uncover and Embrace Their Remarkable Selves Nov 17, 2024

Show notes

On this episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty had the pleasure of speaking with three talented children's authors - Jackie Cano, Emily Jenkins, and Abigail Samson. Jackie Cano shared the heartwarming story behind her book "Sabella Can Sew." Inspired by her own daughter, Jackie wanted to teach kids that they can overcome obstacles and try new things, even if they're challenging at first. She spoke about her own journey of learning to sew and how it sparked a love of the craft in her daughters. Jackie also discussed the unique sacrifices military families make, emphasizing the importance of community support. Next, Jed chatted with Emily Jenkins about her middle grade novel "All the Best Dogs." Set in a Brooklyn dog park, the book follows a group of diverse 6th graders and their canine companions. Emily explained how the book tackles serious issues like family troubles and anxiety, while also providing plenty of laughs and heartwarming moments. She offered great advice for aspiring writers, encouraging them to focus on developing their skills rather than relying on natural "talent." Finally, Jed spoke with 13-year-old author Abigail Samson about her debut book "The Magical World of Candy Topia." Abigail shared how the fantastical story, about a girl named Kate who goes on a journey to save a candy-filled planet, was inspired by her siblings. Jed was impressed by Abigail's maturity and resilience, as she discussed the mix of excitement and anxiety she feels about the positive feedback her book has received. This episode of Reading with Your Kids is a must-listen for parents and kids alike, offering heartwarming stories, valuable insights, and inspiration from these talented children's authors.

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