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Closing The Literacy Gap

Reading With Your Kids Podcast

Release Date: 04/27/2025

From Boredom to Breaking Free: Stories That Matter for Young Readers show art From Boredom to Breaking Free: Stories That Matter for Young Readers

Reading With Your Kids Podcast

In this powerful episode of Reading with Your Kids, listeners get a two-part exploration of impactful storytelling for young adults. First, author Mike Bender and illustrator Chuck Dillon dive into "Bored Panda," a delightful children's book celebrating the magic of boredom. They argue that unstructured time isn't something to fear, but an opportunity for creativity. Drawing from childhood memories of limited entertainment, they show how imagination flourishes when kids aren't constantly stimulated by devices. The second half of the episode takes a more serious turn with Stacy Pedula and David...

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Precious Love: Celebrating Family Through Children's Literature show art Precious Love: Celebrating Family Through Children's Literature

Reading With Your Kids Podcast

Get ready for a double dose of inspiration in this must-listen episode of Reading with Your Kids! Host Jed Doherty brings three incredible authors on the show to share powerful stories that will touch your heart and transform your family reading time. First up, meet Carlos Aponte and his stunning picture book "Precious" - a love letter to Puerto Rico that goes way beyond a simple children's story. Set against the backdrop of a hurricane, this bilingual book explores the magic of community, family resilience, and the unbreakable bonds that connect us. Aponte weaves a beautiful narrative...

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Anh Do: Laughter, Resilience, and Inspiring Young Readers show art Anh Do: Laughter, Resilience, and Inspiring Young Readers

Reading With Your Kids Podcast

From Refugee to Bestselling Children's Author In this heartwarming episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty sits down with the extraordinary Anh Do - a comedian, actor, author, and artist who's captured the hearts of millions with his incredible storytelling. Anh Do's latest book, Wolf Girl, isn't just another children's novel - it's a powerful narrative inspired by his own remarkable life story. Born in Vietnam and escaping as a refugee on a tiny nine-meter fishing boat, Do brings a unique perspective to children's literature that's both entertaining and deeply meaningful. Wolf...

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Raising Empowered Kids: Lessons from Dr. Shafer Stedron show art Raising Empowered Kids: Lessons from Dr. Shafer Stedron

Reading With Your Kids Podcast

In this must-listen episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty sits down with Dr. Schafer Stedron, author of the groundbreaking children's book "The Boy and His Brightly Colored Blocks," to explore a revolutionary approach to parenting that's changing how we understand and support our children. Dr. Stedron introduces listeners to a powerful parenting strategy that goes beyond traditional discipline, focusing instead on connection, choice, and emotional intelligence. Her book tells the story of a young boy with pathological demand avoidance (PDA), showcasing how parents can transform...

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Mirrors and Windows: Diverse Stories for Young Readers show art Mirrors and Windows: Diverse Stories for Young Readers

Reading With Your Kids Podcast

In this captivating episode of the Reading with Your Kids podcast, host Jed Doherty explores the transformative power of literature through conversations with two remarkable authors who are breaking new ground in children's and young adult literature. First up is Jodie Benveniste, a psychologist turned YA author, who shares her compelling novel "Never, Not Ever". The book follows Tilly, a teenager navigating complex family dynamics, loss, and emerging relationships. Benveniste beautifully discusses how storytelling can be a form of bibliotherapy, helping young people understand and process...

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Breaking Free from Structured Childhood: The Power of Independent Play show art Breaking Free from Structured Childhood: The Power of Independent Play

Reading With Your Kids Podcast

Unlock the Secrets of Playful Parenting: Creativity, Independence, and Imagination Are you tired of overscheduled kids and endless screen time? This episode of Reading with Your Kids is a game-changer for parents looking to spark their children's creativity and independence! We dive deep with two incredible guests who are revolutionizing how we think about play and childhood development. Myriam Sandler, author of "Playful by Design," shares her groundbreaking approach to creating spaces that encourage independent play. She reveals how simple home organization can transform how kids explore,...

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Unexpected Adventures: Moonlit Fairies and Superhero Farts show art Unexpected Adventures: Moonlit Fairies and Superhero Farts

Reading With Your Kids Podcast

Get ready for a wild ride through children's literature with two incredible authors who are redefining storytelling for kids! In this episode of Reading with Your Kids, we dive into the magical and hilarious world of children's books with Karly Bonfante and Joan Holub. Karly Bonfante introduces us to the enchanting Full Moon Fairy, a heartwarming book series that brings nature and imagination together. Inspired by a family tradition of leaving shoes out for a magical fairy, Karly created a collection of books that teach kids about lunar cycles, kindness, and environmental awareness. Each book...

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Exploring the Outdoors and Healing Through Play show art Exploring the Outdoors and Healing Through Play

Reading With Your Kids Podcast

In a captivating podcast episode, author Susie Spikol shares her passionate approach to reconnecting children with the natural world through her innovative book, Forest Magic for Kids. This non-fiction nature activity guide offers families a unique opportunity to explore the outdoors, spark imagination, and rediscover the joy of unstructured play. Spikol, a naturalist with over 30 years of experience, challenges traditional nature education by focusing on exploration and wonder rather than strict scientific identification. Her book provides families with over 50 activities that encourage...

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Music, Miracles & Meteorology show art Music, Miracles & Meteorology

Reading With Your Kids Podcast

In this captivating episode of Reading With Your Kids, host Jed Doherty takes listeners on an extraordinary adventure with two incredible authors who are redefining storytelling for young readers. First up is Rayne Lacko, whose young adult novel "The Secret Song of Shelby Ray" introduces readers to a fascinating protagonist with an extraordinary gift: the ability to hear people's inner music when she touches them. This unique premise explores complex themes of mental health, personal growth, and the power of understanding one's authentic self. Lacko brilliantly weaves a narrative that speaks...

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Connecting Generations Through Literature With Pablo Cartaya show art Connecting Generations Through Literature With Pablo Cartaya

Reading With Your Kids Podcast

In this captivating episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty sits down with author Pablo Cartaya to explore the magic of middle-grade literature and the power of authentic storytelling. Cartaya's latest book, "A Hero's Guide to Summer Vacation," promises to be a heartwarming journey that will resonate with young readers and their families. The conversation delves deep into the art of writing for middle-grade audiences, a demographic Cartaya describes as a "sweet spot" of incredible potential. With humor and insight, he explains how sixth, seventh, and eighth graders are at a unique...

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More Episodes

In this eye-opening episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty sits down with Deb Mallin, the passionate founder of Mighty Doodle. What makes this platform unique? It's not just another educational app – it's a comprehensive learning experience designed to meet each child exactly where they are.
Mighty Doodle uses cutting-edge AI technology to create a personalized, engaging learning environment for first through fourth-grade students. The platform incorporates the science of reading with a whole-child approach, meaning kids aren't just memorizing – they're truly understanding and enjoying the learning process.
One of the most exciting features is the parent portal, which allows families to track progress, print flashcards, and actively participate in their child's educational journey. At just $149 for an entire year, it's an incredibly affordable option compared to traditional tutoring.
But Mighty Doodle isn't just about academic success – it's about building confidence. The platform's buy-one-give-one model ensures that for every subscription purchased, another is donated to an underserved family, helping to close the literacy gap.
Deb Mallin's mission goes beyond teaching reading. She's passionate about empowering children, recognizing their unique potential, and providing tools that make learning fun and accessible. With movement, gamification, and a multi-sensory approach, Mighty Doodle is changing the educational landscape.
For parents frustrated with traditional learning methods or concerned about their child's reading progress, Mighty Doodle offers a beacon of hope. It's proof that technology, when used thoughtfully, can be an incredible tool for learning and growth.
But the episode doesn't stop there! Jed also sits down with Lacey C Clark!, author of the vibrant children's book "I Am Phenomenal Everywhere". Lacey shares her incredible journey of living on five continents and her mission to inspire children to embrace their unique qualities. Her book follows a spunky young girl who discovers her phenomenal nature while traveling the world, encouraging children to celebrate what makes them special.
Lacey's message resonates deeply with parents looking to nurture their children's individuality. Drawing from her own experiences, she emphasizes the importance of parents being perceptive and supportive of their children's natural talents and curiosities. Whether it's performing, creating, or exploring, Lacey believes in pouring energy into a child's passions and helping them grow into their most authentic selves.

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