The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with Kids

Welcome to today’s episode! Today on the Lil' Leaders Podcast, meet Harriet! She’s a young girl with a huge heart, on a mission to make sure everyone feels included and loved. Through her charity work, Harriet proves that even small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect of positivity and make the world a better place. Be inspired by her understanding of how important it is to life others up. Let's get started!   Picture Book Recommendations: a. Don't Be Afraid To Drop Author: Julia Cook                                       Illustrator: Anna Laura Sullivan What happens when one little raindrop finds the courage to let go? Way up in the sky, Hopp the raindrop is scared of change. Hopp loves playing with his friends, riding on clouds, and being happy with his safe, predictable life. But he soon learns that staying where he is limits the impact he can have on those around him. "You have so many gifts to share with the world, so many dreams to live. Take a chance little man, let go of this cloud. Discover the ways you can give." Don't Be Afraid to Drop is a book for anyone who is at a transitional point in their life. From the kindergartener heading to school, to an adult nearing retirement, and everyone in between, this creative analogy provides all who read it with a positive perspective on change, taking risks, and giving back. There's so much good that can happen when we step beyond our comfort zones and try something new!   b. How To Make a Better World Author: Keilly Swift                                       Illustrator: Jamie Margolin Full of positive encouragement to find something you're passionate about and how to get started on making a big difference through small actions, this brilliant factbook for kids is a treasure trove of information and great advice. There's a lot that can be changed by just one person if you know what to do. If you are a kid with big dreams and a passion for what is right, you just might be a world-changer in the making! Through ideas as small as creating a neighborhood lending library to as important as public speaking and how to talk about politics, How to Make a Better World is a practical guide to activism for children. Well-written and divided into sections on You, Community, Environment, and more, this educational book helps children to look at what they might like to achieve, and the logical approach makes it easy to navigate if you want to tie topics up with school projects. Brightly illustrated inclusive art makes this factbook as visually appealing as its message. You can easily jump around without any loss of comprehension and dip in for short or longer periods. Learn about tricky social interactions like friendship fallouts, or bullying and how to maneuver them, or find out how to go about creating activist campaigns to tackle climate change or social injustice. If kids are to think positive thoughts and be part of movements for positive change, they need to be encouraged to do it. This book is full of wonderful facts about the world, presenting such positivity as cool, sensible, exciting, and achievable. The perfect starter book to activism for kids.    Cool Q's For Discussion: 1. How does Harriet’s belief in "it shouldn’t have to happen to you to matter to you" resonate with you? Can you think of a time when you applied this in your life? 2. Harriet makes sure her brother, who is autistic, feels included. What are some ways we can promote inclusion for people of all abilities in our own communities? 3. Harriet’s charity work, like blessing boxes and Block Love Charlotte, shows her commitment to giving back. What causes or acts of kindness are you passionate about supporting? 4. How do you think Harriet balances her charity work, modeling, acting, and school at such a young age? What can we learn from her about time management and following multiple passions? 5. What are some ways you can encourage inclusivity and kindness in your everyday life, inspired by Harriet's story?   Have a great week! Keep Leading and Keep Reading, Tina

Welcome to today’s episode! I’m excited to introduce our guest, Jen Orr, the creator of Eyewords Learning. Jen developed a unique way to help kids learn to read by using the science of how our brains work best. Her program, Eyewords, combines seeing, hearing, and touching all at once to make learning easier. It connects the sounds, letters, and meanings of words in a way that helps kids remember them faster and feel more confident. Jen’s method makes reading fun again, step by step, and we’re thrilled to hear her story and how Eyewords can help kids. Let’s get started!   Picture Book Recommendations: a. How Rocket Learned to Read Author &  Illustrator: Tad Hills Learn to read with this New York Times-bestselling picture book, starring an irresistible dog named Rocket and his teacher, a little yellow bird. Follow along as Rocket masters the alphabet, sounds out words, and finally . . . learns to read all on his own! With a story that makes reading fun—and will even help listeners learn to read—this book is ideal for kindergarten classrooms and story hour or as a gift for that beginning reader.    b. A Walk in the Words Author  &  Illustrator: Hudson Talbott Hudson Talbott's inspiring story vividly reveals the challenges--and ultimately the rewards--of being a non-mainstream kind of learner. When Hudson Talbott was a little boy, he loved drawing, and it came naturally to him. But reading? No way! One at a time, words weren't a problem, but long sentences were a struggle. As his friends moved on to thicker books, he kept his slow reading a secret. But that got harder every year. He felt alone, lost, and afraid in a world of too many words. Fortunately, his love of stories wouldn't let him give up. He started giving himself permission to read at his own pace, using the words he knew as stepping-stones to help draw him into a story. And he found he wasn't so alone--in fact, lots of brilliant people were slow readers, too. Learning to accept the fact that everyone does things in their own unique way, and that was okay, freed him up and ultimately helped Hudson thrive and become the fabulous storyteller he is today.    Cool Q's For Discussion:   1. Why did Jen Orr create Eyewords, and how does it help kids learn to read? 2. How does Eyewords meet kids where they are in their reading journey? 3. How can learning to read with Eyewords make reading fun again? 4. What is the step-by-step process of Eyewords, and how does it help build confidence in  reading? 5. What is your main takeaway from today’s episode with Jen Orr and Eyewords Learning?   Have a great week! Keep Leading and Keep Reading, Tina

    Lifting Each Other Up : With Smiles And Teamwork What does it take to be a true leader in the face of challenges? Meet Sahasra, today's Lil' Leader! This incredible 7th grader has a heart full of empathy, always finding ways to help those in need. Even when faced with unexpected situations and comments, Sahasra stays optimistic and encourages her classmates to work together for the greater good. In her episode, you'll be inspired by her powerful approach to lifting others up. Don't miss out on this uplifting conversation!   Picture Book Recommendations: a. I Got the School Spirit Author: Connie Schofield-Morrison        Illustrator: Frank Morrison Summer is over, and this little girl has got the school spirit! She hears the school spirit in the bus driving up the street--VROOM, VROOM!--and in the bell sounding in the halls--RING-A-DING! She sings the school spirit in class with her friends--ABC, 123! The school spirit helps us all strive and grow. What will you learn today? This exuberant celebration of the first day of school illustrated by award-winning illustrator Frank Morrison will have every kid cheering for school to begin!   b. Remarkably You Author: Pat Zietlow Miller                           Illustrator: Patrice Barton Heartfelt and timeless, Remarkably You is an inspirational manifesto about all of the things—little or small, loud or quiet—that make us who we are. Great for sharing and gifting, especially to celebrate your remarkable graduate. New York Times bestselling author Pat Zietlow Miller celebrates individuality in her remarkable picture book about the beauty of being yourself. With encouraging text and exuberant illustrations by Patrice Barton, readers will delight in all the ways they can be their remarkable selves. You might go unnoticed, or shine like a star,but wherever you go and whoever you are…don’t change how you act to be just like the rest.Believe in yourself and the things you do best.    Cool Q's For Discussion:    How did moving from India to the Canada change Sahasra's perspective on helping others who struggle? 2. What strategies does Sahasra use to encourage kids in group projects to collaborate, when they don’t see eye to eye at first? 3. How does Sahasra stay focused on the positive things about herself when others may exclude her or say unkind things?            4. Would you handle these situations the same way Sahasra did? Why or why not?                    5. What is your main takeaway from today’s episode with Sahasra?   Have a great week! Keep Leading and Keep Reading, Tina

A Traveling Teacher: Helping Kids Learn Everywhere Meet Peter Panopolous, this week's Big Leader feature! After 12 years of classroom teaching, Peter pursued his next dream—teaching online to support kids who needed alternative learning options. In this episode, we explore his strategies and compassionate approach as he created ATravelingTeacher.com. His platform helps students, whether they’re ill or facing challenges that keep them out of traditional classrooms, find comfort and confidence in an online learning environment.   Picture Book Recommendations: a. School Is Wherever I Am Author &  Illustrator: Ellie Peterson From Ellie Peterson, the author-illustrator of How to Hug A Pufferfish comes a timely new picture book about learning, exploration, and the ever-expanding definition of school. Is school only one place? Are there other classrooms? Different teachers? New Lessons? In this charming, thoughtful picture book, author-illustrator Ellie Peterson explores learning, adventure, and the thousands of the things you can discover outside of a classroom―about the world, about your family, about yourself. Because school is truly wherever you are.     b. Because You Are My Teacher Author: Sherry North                                Illustrator: Marcellus Hall One devoted teacher will stop at nothing to show her class the wonders of the world. From soaring over the Great Wall of China to hang gliding in the Australian Outback, the class has all kinds of adventures, across all seven continents. Because You Are My Teacher, is an exciting introduction to geography and makes a touching gift for any teacher who has broadened your child’s horizons. The book includes a note about the seven continents and each of the places or creatures mentioned in the book.   Cool Q's For Discussion: 1. What stood out to you about Peter’s approach to helping students adjust to online learning? 2. How do you think online education can benefit students who face challenges in traditional classrooms? 3. Have you ever had to step out of your comfort zone like Peter did when he changed careers? How did it feel? 4. How can you help someone who may need to attend online school temporarily? 5. What is your main takeaway from today’s episode with Peter?   Have a great week! Keep Reading and Keep Leading, Tina

Show Notes   Big Heart, Brave Choices: Being a Friend and a Leader Meet Veera, our first Lil' Leader of the season! She's an elementary school student who loves helping others, even during her lessons. Supporting her peers and family is incredibly important to her! Her episode, 'Big Heart, Brave Choices: Being a Friend and a Leader,' is also her first time on a podcast. Congratulations Veera! Enjoy our conversation with Veera and learn more about her inspiring story.   Picture Book Recommendations: a. The Scarecrow Author: Beth Ferry                                    Illustrator: The Fan Brothers Bestselling author Beth Ferry (Stick and Stone) and the widely acclaimed Fan Brothers (The Night Gardener) present a gorgeous and poignant picture book about two unexpected friends and the special connection they share. This tender and affectionate story reminds us of the comforting power of friendship and the joy of helping others—a tale that will inspire and delight children for generations to come. All the animals know not to mess with old Scarecrow. But when a small, scared crow falls from midair, Scarecrow does the strangest thing.… He saves the tiny baby crow. Soon a loving bond grows between the two unlikely friends. But is it strong enough to weather the changing of the seasons?   b. Stick and Stone Author: Beth Ferry                                 Illustrator: Tom Lichenfeld When Stick rescues Stone from a prickly situation with a Pinecone, the pair becomes fast friends. But when Stick gets stuck, can Stone return the favor? With a subtle anti-bullying message even the young will understand, Stick and Stone have energy, emotion, and personality to spare and share a story of kindness and friendship that all will enjoy.   Cool Q's For Discussion: How does Veera handle situations when other kids aren’t being nice at school? What special skill did Veera learn from her mom that she enjoys doing? Who did Veera help during a math lesson, and what was she helping them with? What are some of Veera's favorite activities to do when she’s not in school? Why does Veera think it's important to help others, even when she's busy with her own work? What is your main takeaway from today's episode?   Have a great week! Keep Reading and Keep Leading, Tina

In this week's REPOST episode, Baxter and Ethan stopped by to share a special family story. Currently in Austrailia, these young brothers share their story about the difficult times their family experienced during the pandemic and the project they created together to get them through with joy. Their story is one filled with family, love, determination, persistence, bravery and empathy. Enjoy listening to Baxter and Ethan in this week's interview.   Picture Book Recommendations: a. The Holdin Pott Author: Chandra Ghosh Ippen                                               Illustrator: Erich Ippen Jr.   A worn pressure cooker and a sweet little pot learn new ways of dealing with difficult feelings. Meet the Potts. Holdin Pott grew up learning to keep in feelings of sadness and anger. He is one tough pressure cooker. Little Pott is watching and wants to be just like him, but when you’re little and the heat is on really high, it’s hard to keep the lid on and hold tough stories and feelings inside. What will Little Pott do? How will Holdin Pott help him?   b. The Hugging Tree: A Story About Resilience Author:  Jill Neimark                                                                  Illustrator:  Nicole Wong Alone on a mighty cliff by the sea, a tiny tree struggles to grow and thrive. She is nurtured by the sea, sun and moon, and becomes home to a family of loons. But winter ice storms and bitter cold break her boughs and roots. Will she survive? Find out how the hugging tree grows until she can hold and shelter others. Even though childhood can be a wondrous and carefree time, children must deal with difficulties as they grow. Those range from minor disappointments like losing a game, arguing with a friend or sibling, earning a poor grade…to significant blows such as the death of a parent or loved one, abuse, or neglect.   c. Love Grows Everywhere Author: Barry Timms                                                                  Illustrator: Tisha Lee Evelyn Del Rey is Daniela’s best friend. They do everything together and even live in twin apartments across the street from each other: Daniela with her mami and hamster, and Evelyn with her mami, papi, and cat. But not after today—not after Evelyn moves away. Until then, the girls play amid the moving boxes until it’s time to say goodbye, making promises to keep in touch, because they know that their friendship will always be special. The tenderness of Meg Medina’s beautifully written story about friendship and change is balanced by Sonia Sánchez’s colorful and vibrant depictions of the girls’ urban neighborhood.   d. Big Tree Is Sick Author:  Nathalie Slosse                                                           Illustrator:  Rocio Del Moral Snibbles and Big Tree are best friends! They have always hung out together, and Snibbles loves Big Tree very much. When Big Tree unexpectedly falls ill with woodworm, Snibbles is very upset and angry. The illness is a very bad one and Big Tree does not feel well and doesn't want to play for a long time. Poor Snibbles! He wants Big Tree to get better, but he feels as if there is nothing he can do. What can Snibbles and his friends do to help Big Tree through his treatment and recovery? This beautifully illustrated storybook describes the anger and emotion that many children encounter when a close relative or friend is diagnosed with a long-term illness, such as cancer.  Questions For Discussion:   -Have you ever been in a new situation and not sure how to handle it?   -Did you share your feelings with someone like a parent, frien, or sibling? Was it helpful?   -Share some examples of how we can learn about ourselves through tough situations. Were you surprised with yourself? -What is your main take away from today's episode? Why? Have a great week! Keep Reading and Keep Leading, Tina

We are revisiting with the amazing Jill Cofsky, a voice actor and primary grade reading intervention specialist. Discover the fascinating world of voice acting and how Jill's voice, paired with engaging sound effects, brings stories to life, taking listeners on a magical literary adventure. Listen in as she shares her journey and the meaningful experiences she hopes to create for young readers. Enjoy this special feature interview!   Picture Book Recommendations:    a. Rattlesnake Rules Author: Conrad J. Storad                                         Illustrator: Nathaniel P. Jensen If these babies shake their rattles, you’d better pay attention! This book helps children learn about rattlesnakes. Much maligned primarily because they are too often misunderstood, rattlesnakes have gotten a bad rap over the years. Conrad J. Storad, an award-winning author of more than 30 science and nature books for young readers, wants to do something about that. In his just released book, Rattlesnake Rules, Conrad demystifies the world of rattlesnakes and introduces children to such topics as who, when, and what rattlesnakes eat. He shows readers why rattlesnakes have rattles and what it means if you hear one. You will learn how the snakes’ forked tongues help them survive. The delightful and colorful illustrations of Nathaniel P. Jensen help bring the story alive.   b. My Bonus Mom! Taking the Step Out of Stepmom Author: Tami Butcher                                                 Illustrator: Feras Nouf Who is this woman? Is she going to replace mommy? Will daddy love her more than me? What if she doesn't like going to the zoo? When children of divorced or widowed parents first hear of their father's intention to remarry, they not only have to work through their own fears and feelings of uncertainty, they have to battle with century-old fairytales and modern movies that depict stepmothers as evil. However, Tami Butcher's first book in a series of books that address family matters in child-friendly rhyme opens the doors to their hearts and minds, by showing kids the positive possibilities of gaining a "bonus mom."   Questions For Discussion:  -Have you listened to books narrated by a voice actor? How did this enhance your listening experience?  -Which sound effects are your favorite?  -Do you search for stories that have both narration and sound effects? -What is your main take away from today's episode? Why?   Have a great week! Keep Reading and Keep Leading, Tina

Episode 12 Repost: Welcome to this week's repost of an unforgettable literary journey with Paige and Laly, the dynamic duo behind @paigesandlalypops! With summer break underway, these girls know all the best books for kids aged 5 and up! Get ready to laugh, learn, and leap into the pages of amazing tales as Paige and Laly bring their infectious energy and passion for reading straight to your ears. From early readers to tweens, no book is off-limits for these sister bookstagrammers. But it's not just about the books; it's about the journey. Paige and Laly will guide you with humor and heart, showing you how to swap screens for the magic of reading. These sisters have all the secrets. Enjoy this special feature interview with @paigeandlalypops.   Picture Book Recommendations:    a. The Library Girl Author: Karen Henry Clark                                    Illustrator: Sheryl Murray Nancy Pearl loved books and spent so much time in her school library that her grade school classmates teased her, calling her “library girl.” When she discovers her neighborhood public library is open on Saturday, she begins the adventure of her lifetime. There, an inspiring librarian recognizes her abilities, recommends books that ignite her vivid imagination, and provides experiences to bolster her burgeoning self-confidence. As she loses herself in the books she finds herself in their pages and comes to recognize her strengths. Her self-discovery brings a realization at a young age that she wants to become a librarian so she can help children discover their dreams. This young girl, Nancy Pearl, grows up to become “America’s Most Celebrated Librarian,” devoting her life to talking about books up and down library aisles, on radio and television, at conferences and colleges around the world. Ultimately, she authors books about books, believing that reading allows people to find dreams of their own . . . with the turn of every page.    b. The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned To Read Author: Rita Lorraine Hubbard                                  Illustrator: Oge Mora Imagine learning to read at the age of 116! Discover the true story of Mary Walker, the nation's oldest student who did just that, in this picture book from a Caldecott Honor-winning illustrator and a rising star author. In 1848, Mary Walker was born into slavery. At age 15, she was freed, and by age 20, she was married and had her first child. By age 68, she had worked numerous jobs, including cooking, cleaning, babysitting, and selling sandwiches to raise money for her church. At 114, she was the last remaining member of her family. And at 116, she learned to read. From Rita Lorraine Hubbard and rising star Oge More comes the inspirational story of Mary Walker, a woman whose long life spanned from the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement, and who--with perseverance and dedication--proved that you're never too old to learn.   c. The Library Book Author: Tom Chapin, Michael Mark                       Illustrator: Chuck Groenink What’s the best way to cure a gloomy day? A trip to the library! Based on the hit song by Tom Chapin and Michael Mark, here is an affectionate, exuberant, uproarious celebration of books, reading, and—SHHH!—libraries! The rain is pouring, Dad is snoring, and the same old stuff is on TV—boring. What is there to do today? Go to the library, of course! Who will we meet there? Let's find out!   d. How To Read A Book Author: Kwame Alexander                                        Illustrator: Melissa Sweet                          A stunning new picture book from Newbery Medalist Kwame Alexander and Caldecott Honoree Melissa Sweet! This New York Times bestselling duo has teamed up for the first time to bring you How to Read a Book, a poetic and beautiful journey about the experience of reading. Find a tree—a black tupelo or dawn redwood will do—and plant yourself. (It’s okay if you prefer a stoop, like Langston Hughes.) With these words, an adventure begins. Kwame Alexander’s evocative poetry and Melissa Sweet’s lush artwork come together to take readers on a sensory journey between the pages of a book.   Questions For Discussion:  -How do Paige and Laly pick out books to suggest for kids of different ages? -Why do the sisters think reading is so important for kids, and can they give examples to     explain why? -Describe a time Paige and Laly discovered their book reviews helped a kids in a big way? -What was a specific problem they had in getting kids excited about reading, and how do they discover the solution? -What is your main take away from today's episode? Why?   Have a great week! Keep Reading and Keep Leading, Tina

A special thank you to everyone who made Season 1 a success and so much fun! To celebrate Season 1, we're hosting a special podcast scavenger hunt. Here's the scoop: we've hidden 10 questions across our episodes. In the podcast directory, guest names are shared in the description, so you know which episodes to listen to. Using the Google Form in the Instagram Bio, kids can listen closely to each episode to find the answers.  Sound like fun? A child can work with one other child and collaborate. Both names must appear on the entry form. Submit when finished. And...there are prizes for the top two winners, chosen at random. It's a great way to spark curiosity and keep kids entertained while listening to great role models. Here are the simplified rules for the podcast scavenger hunt: Listen Carefully: Pay close attention to each episode of the Lil' Leaders podcast to find the answers. Take Notes: Write down important points or answers as you listen. Team Up and Submit: You can work with one friend (not a parent/relative) to complete the scavenger hunt. Both names must appear on the Google Form when you submit your answers. Are you ready to join the adventure? Listeners have until 9 PM, Wednesday, June 26th. Winners will be announced on Friday, June 28th. Have a lot of fun! Season 2 in the works beginning September 4th! Keep Reading and Keep Leading, Tina

Life often seems like it's painted in black and white, but if we look closer, it's truly filled with vibrant colors—colors that come from our unique perceptions. Today, we're thrilled to introduce Celia Botto, the debut author of When Ayden Paints The Sky. Inspired by her young niece Ayden, Celia has woven a beautiful story where the canvas of the sky mirrors our emotions and the way we see the world. Join us as Celia shares her journey in crafting this inspiring tale, celebrating the artist, reader, and dreamer in all of us.   Picture Book Recommendations:   a. Noticing     Author:  Kobi Yamada                     Illustrator: Elise Hurst   This is a story about noticing the little things, the grand big things, the imaginary, and sometimes, hidden things. It is about embracing what's possible. And that the incredible is everywhere, and in everything--waiting to be known, discovered, recognized. This beautiful tale encourages readers of all ages to slow down and look at the world with their hearts--to use their imagination to expand their vision. A companion to the beloved children's book Trying, Noticing follows a young girl and an accomplished painter as they learn to observe the beauty and magic in each day. It's a story that will encourage you to pay attention, to make new discoveries, and to explore the unknown. And it's also an invitation to look within, to your own hopes and dreams, and perhaps to discover even more.   b. I Wonder           Author: Kari Ann Holt                        Illustrator: Kenard Pak           In this unusual text, young listeners and readers follow a group of diverse kids trying to make sense of the world as they see it. Questions such as What do clouds taste like?, Do my toys miss me when I'm gone?, and I wonder if cars and trucks speak the same language remind us of a child's unique point of view. Nothing is more powerful than seeing something for the first time, and these whimsical questions will encourage all readers to take a fresh look around them. Exquisite artwork by rising star Kenard Pak follows the arc of a day, ending with a spread showing a group of children as different and varied as their questions.     Cool Q's For Discussion:   1. How did you feel about the story Celia Botto told about Ayden and the sky? Did it remind you of anything in your life? 2. What part of When Ayden Paints The Sky did you like the most? Why? 3. Did Celia’s story make you want to try painting or drawing your own feelings? What would you draw? 4. How do you think the sky can show different feelings? Can you think of a time when the sky looked like how you felt? 5. What was your favorite part of the episode, and did it make you excited to read the book with your family?    Have a great week!  Keep leading and keep reading, Tina