Hyper Kids & Free Voices: Celebrating Energy, Empathy, and the First Amendment

In this uplifting episode of Reading with Your Kids, we’re celebrating kids’ energy, voices, and rights through two powerful picture books and conversations with their inspiring creators.

First, guest host and Emerson College journalism student Madison Lucchesi talks with Ruth Fleury, author of Hyper Kid, so they say. Ruth shares how her energetic son and her years as a kindergarten teacher inspired her to write a story that reframes “hyper” as positive energy, not a problem to be fixed. She and Madison talk about giving kids space to move, “wiggle breaks,” and the importance of understanding each child’s unique temperament—from quiet observers to constant movers. Ruth also offers practical ideas for parents: using sports and outdoor time as healthy outlets, seeking accommodations at school when needed (IEPs, 504s, and early intervention), and building empathy so kids don’t judge peers who are “different.” She also introduces her company, Scholars of Tomorrow Publishing, her daughters’ books, and her cozy new program, Pajamas and Stories with Miss Ruth.

Then Jed welcomes Dr. Allison Matulli, a lawyer, educator, and Montessorian, to discuss her beautifully illustrated book We Are Free, which introduces children to the First Amendment freedoms in a warm, accessible way. Dr. Allison explains how kids already exercise these rights daily—sharing opinions, creating art, gathering with friends—and why it’s vital to teach that freedom comes with responsibility and respect for others. The conversation expands to digital citizenship, media literacy, and helping young readers understand that not everyone in the world enjoys the same protections. Through both interviews, this episode highlights how books can help families raise confident, compassionate, and civically aware kids.