The Reading To Connect Show

In this week’s episode of Reading to Connect, we’re joined by Christy Mandin, the creative mind behind Millie Fleur's Poison Garden. Christy shares how her picture books inspire children to embrace their unique selves, helping parents foster resilience and self-acceptance in their kids. We discuss how simple affirmations and gentle encouragement can empower children to stand strong in a world that often pushes for conformity.Curious about the full story behind Christy's journey and her inspiration for Millie Fleur? Join us next week for in-depth reflections and an exclusive behind-the-scenes video, where Christy shares more about her path as an author and illustrator. You won’t want to miss this deeper dive into how storytelling can connect us all! Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

In this week’s episode of Reading to Connect, we’re joined by Christy Mandin, the creative mind behind Millie Fleur's Poison Garden. Christy shares how her picture books inspire children to embrace their unique selves, helping parents foster resilience and self-acceptance in their kids. We discuss how simple affirmations and gentle encouragement can empower children to stand strong in a world that often pushes for conformity.Curious about the full story behind Christy's journey and her inspiration for Millie Fleur? Join us next week for in-depth reflections and an exclusive behind-the-scenes video, where Christy shares more about her path as an author and illustrator. You won’t want to miss this deeper dive into how storytelling can connect us all! Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Reading To Connect Show, host Quinn Cummings sits down with Dork Diaries creator Rachel Renee Russell and her daughter, Nikki Russell, to discuss the 16th book in the beloved series. Together, they explore the magic of chapter books, the transition from picture books to longer stories, and how parents can bond with their children through shared reading experiences. The conversation touches on personal family stories that inspired the series, the emotional depth of Dork Diaries, and the lessons in friendship, self-esteem, and kindness that transcend generations.Subscribe here for updates & new releases! Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

This episode is our favorite annual Thanksgiving special and we are excited to dive into it with our special guest, Winsome Bingham. A US Army veteran and educator, Winsome is the author of the delightful children's book "Soul Food Sunday".In the first segment of the episode, Winsome shares about her creative process, passion for cooking, and love for capturing the beauty of submarines in photographs. She also explains why she believes recipes should never be a secret and encourages us to experiment in the kitchen.Next, we explore the importance of teaching children to be self-sufficient in the kitchen. We discuss a book about a young boy's culinary journey and share our own kitchen tales. We also discuss cooking tips and highlight the fascinating chemistry of cooking.In the third segment, we delve into the use of repetition and onomatopoeia in children's books, drawing examples from Winsome's book "Cooking with Grandma". Winsome shares her personal experiences using these tools to make reading more enjoyable for children.In the final part of the episode, we have a conversation with author Winston Bingham about the importance of representing joy, particularly Black joy, in children's literature. Winston shares his experiences navigating the publishing industry and how this representation can positively impact a child's mental health.This episode is not only a celebration of the magic behind children's books but also a celebration of cooking, self-sufficiency, and joy. It is a heartwarming exploration that we hope will inspire you this Thanksgiving. Join us for this enlightening conversation and let's discover the magic behind children's books together!Learn more about Winsome Bingham>> https://binghamwrites.com/ Grab the book Soul Food Sunday by Winsome Bingham, illustrated by C. G. Esperanza>> https://amzn.to/3d4sE2hConnect with Winsome Bingham on:>> Instagram: https://instagram.com/ArmyVetFiveWatch the full video interview with Winsome Bingham:https://www.facebook.com/AidynsBooks/videos/3849275991963564Free gift 🎁The E.N.G.A.G.E. Method 📚💕 - Your guide to an engaging and enjoyable story time with your kiddos: https://aidynsbooks.teachable.com/p/the-e-n-g-a-g-e-methodSupport the showWanna be on the show? We're always looking for great authors and educators to join us. Check out the website and share your mission with us! Apply To Be On The Show Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

Have you ever been captivated by a child's expansive imagination? Have you wondered at the transformative power of books in a child's life? We've been exploring these themes with Courtney B Dunlap, author of The Rumble Hunters and a dedicated home educator. Courtney, a former mental health professional and now a mother of four, took us on an inspiring journey from her initial hesitation about homeschooling to her eventual embrace of it as a pivotal part of her family's life.Courtney opened our eyes to the enchanting world of her book, The Rumble Hunters, where the main character's curiosity and bravery mirror those of her own son, James. The book playfully incorporates sound cues, hidden secrets in the illustrations and, impressively, a representation of black children as heroes of the story. Courtney's passion for reading didn't blossom overnight. It was a journey that started with a struggle but has since become an integral part of her homeschooling routine.Towards the end, our conversation shifted to the need for representation in children's literature. Courtney shared her commitment to provide black children with stories that allow them to be the hero of the story. The Rumble Hunters does more than entertain; it aims to empower and inspire. So, join us as we delve into Courtney's unique perspective on homeschooling and the power of reading. It's a conversation that will surely ignite your passion for reading and its transformative potential in a child's life.>> Learn more about Courtney B. Dunlap:https://storiesforuspress.com>> Find  The Rumble Hunters here:https://amzn.to/468So3r>> Watch the full video interview on our FB page: https://fb.watch/omumwwBuJv/Free gift 🎁The E.N.G.A.G.E. Method 📚💕 - Your guide to an engaging and enjoyable story time with your kiddos: https://aidynsbooks.com/podcastgift-engageSupport the showWanna be on the show? We're always looking for great authors and educators to join us. Check out the website and share your mission with us! Apply To Be On The Show Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to a journey of independence, resilience, and family bonding in this episode of Parenting & Bonding w/ children's Books, as we sit down with author Steph Katzovi. Discover her inspiring chapter book, 'Hurricamp,' where childhood memories of summer camp blend into a tale of growth and self-discovery. Steph's story dives into the heart of a young girl's quest for autonomy, spiced with humor and the wild winds of a hurricane, offering a perfect metaphor for the tumultuous path of growing up.Through engaging anecdotes and laughter, Steph shares her wisdom on how to make reading a cornerstone of family time, transforming it from a chore into a treasure trove of shared adventures. We talk about how 'Hurricamp' can serve as a catalyst for conversations about courage and the importance of making one's own choices, especially when facing life's storms.This episode isn't just about fostering a passion for reading in our children—it's about the life skills they acquire through the stories they love. Steph gives us a peek into how her characters navigate the ups and downs of independence, providing a blueprint for parents looking to empower their own kids.Don't miss out on the special insights and promotions Steph Katzovi shares, directly from her author's journey to your family's reading nook. Join us for an episode that promises to enrich your parenting toolkit and leave you with new ideas to encourage the young readers at home.>> Learn more about Steph Katzovi:https://stephkatzovi.com/>> Find  Hurricamp here:https://amzn.to/3FVgWSx>> Watch the full video interview on our FB page: https://www.facebook.com/AidynsBooks/Free gift 🎁The E.N.G.A.G.E. Method 📚💕 - Your guide to an engaging and enjoyable story time with your kiddos: https://aidynsbooks.com/podcastgift-engageSupport the showWanna be on the show? We're always looking for great authors and educators to join us. Check out the website and share your mission with us! Apply To Be On The Show Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

Have you ever sung your child to sleep and felt that incredible bond, that unique connection that only a lullaby can create? That's precisely the magic we explore with Amanda Seibert, founder of Mama Sing My Song. Amanda shares her wonderful journey of turning her child's name into a lullaby that eventually inspired her to establish her unique venture. This episode offers a deep dive into the powerful role music can play in enhancing parent-child bonding and a child's overall development. Our conversation with Amanda leads us to understand the uniqueness of Mama Sing My Song - an initiative creating personalized songs for children. Imagine a sweet melody expressing your love, hopes, and dreams for your child, a treasure to keep for life. We also discuss her recently launched children's book that promotes interactive singing sessions between parents and children, making story-time a gala musical event.Beyond her business, Amanda's mission includes a heartwarming initiative to bring comfort to children in foster care. She shares her aim to gift songs and stuffies to these children as reassurance of love and care. We also get a chance to explore her favorite books for young readers and her joy in creating music that strengthens family ties. Amanda's profound gratitude for the ability to touch lives through her music is a journey you must not miss. Tune in for an episode that promises to be as soothing and insightful as a lullaby.>> Learn more about Amanda Seibert:https://mamasingmysong.com>> Find Mama, Sing My Song here:https://amzn.to/3FGBePRWatch the full video interview on our FB page here:📽 Click here for the full episode with Amanda Seibert Free gift 🎁The E.N.G.A.G.E. Method 📚💕 - Your guide to an engaging and enjoyable story time with your kiddos: https://aidynsbooks.com/podcastgift-engageSupport the showWanna be on the show? We're always looking for great authors and educators to join us. Check out the website and share your mission with us! Apply To Be On The Show Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

Prepare for an enlightening conversation with the mother-daughter powerhouse behind the beloved children's book series, "Dork Diaries." Rachel and Nikki, take us on a captivating journey behind the pages, revealing the magic and messages that have resonated with millions of young readers worldwide.Ever wondered how humor can be a gentle bridge to address serious topics in children's books? Dive into the vibrant world of Nikki Maxwell, and see how laughter serves as a backdrop to teach empowerment, courage, and self-worth. We explore the meticulous craft of creating relatable characters from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that every reader sees a reflection of themselves in the story.As we get a sneak peek into Nikki Maxwell's dream adventure in Paris in the upcoming 15th installment, we’re reminded of the series' core message: Always let your "inner dork" shine and remain true to oneself. Join us as we delve into the importance of fostering engaging dialogues through reading, nurturing deeper family connections, and the exciting prospects of "Dork Diaries" coming alive in color. Plug in, gather around, and let's celebrate the triumphs and trials of our favorite dork.>> Learn more about Rachel Renée & Nikki Russell:https://dorkdiaries.com/>> Find  the Dork Diaries series here:https://amzn.to/3QbdyryWatch the full video interview with us on Thursday, October 26 @ 6:30 PM CST on our FB page: https://www.facebook.com/AidynsBooks/Free gift 🎁The E.N.G.A.G.E. Method 📚💕 - Your guide to an engaging and enjoyable story time with your kiddos: https://aidynsbooks.com/podcastgift-engageSupport the showWanna be on the show? We're always looking for great authors and educators to join us. Check out the website and share your mission with us! Apply To Be On The Show Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

Get set for a heartwarming discussion with New York Times bestselling author Peter H Reynolds and his budding storyteller son, Henry Rocket Reynolds.  Can you remember the bedtime stories that sparked your imagination and filled your dreams with magic? Remember that feeling? We rekindle that love for stories as they weave enchanting tales about their creative process, their mission of healing through storytelling, and their latest creation "All We Need Is Love and a Really Soft Pillow!".What if a simple dot could inspire millions across the globe to start their creative journey? We journey into the world of children's literature with our guests to explore this fascinating concept of 'The Dot'. We delve deep into the importance of fostering a love for reading in children and how it nurtures deeper family connections. Get ready to be inspired and remember, sometimes all it takes is a dot, a few lines, or a few words to create something beautiful. So plug in, sit back, and let's rekindle our love for storytelling.>> Learn more about Peter H. and Henry 'Rocket' Reynolds:https://www.peterhreynolds.com/>> Find  Peter & Rocket's book here:https://amzn.to/3S3xjE9Watch the full video interview with us on Sunday, October 22 @ 6:30 PM CST on our FB page: https://www.facebook.com/AidynsBooks/Free gift 🎁The E.N.G.A.G.E. Method 📚💕 - Your guide to an engaging and enjoyable story time with your kiddos: https://aidynsbooks.com/podcastgift-engageSupport the showWanna be on the show? We're always looking for great authors and educators to join us. Check out the website and share your mission with us! Apply To Be On The Show Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

Can a book transform your home and foster deeper connections within your family? Tune in as we unpack this intriguing concept with the talented author-illustrator Violet LeMay. Violet, who has illustrated 44 books, six of which she has authored, takes us on a journey behind the scenes of her award-winning book, Let's Be Friends. A beautiful exploration of friendship and diversity, this title embodies Violet's belief that we can all be friends, even when there are differences between us. We delve into the creative process behind this charming book, examining everything from the cover art to the delightful illustrations within its pages.The magic of story time is further unraveled in this episode, as Violet advocates for the mindful enjoyment of reading with children. She shares insights from her unique experience living on an international boarding school campus in Malaysia, shedding light on how this has influenced her work. We also discuss her some of her other published works, each carrying unique features that are sure to captivate both parents and children alike. Violet illuminates the joy she experiences when she visits schools, particularly relishing in the children's responses to her books and art activities. Join us for an enlightening conversation on the power of children's literature and its ability to nurture familial bonds and foster a lifelong love for reading.>> Learn more about Violet:https://violetlemay.com/>> Find Violet's books here:https://amzn.to/3bpk5yIWatch the full video interview with Violet Lemay:https://fb.watch/m_6HWkhWuK/ Free gift 🎁The E.N.G.A.G.E. Method 📚💕 - Your guide to an engaging and enjoyable story time with your kiddos: https://aidynsbooks.com/podcastgift-engageSupport the showWanna be on the show? We're always looking for great authors and educators to join us. Check out the website and share your mission with us! Apply To Be On The Show Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

Join us as we engage in a heartwarming conversation with author Sandi Schwartz, who shares about her book Sky's Search for Eco Happiness. Sandi, the founder and director of the Eco Happiness Project, takes us on a journey through her background, experiences of parenting two school-aged children, and her interesting take on the varying humidity levels in Florida and Dallas. With Sandi, we reminisce about growing up in New Jersey and even unearth a surprising connection to her book. She unveils the book's premise - a fun and innovative approach to discussing emotional well-being. Our anticipation is building as we prepare to delve further into this intriguing book and the inspiring message behind it.Listen in as we uncover how postpartum anxiety led Sandi to explore natural ways to enhance emotional well-being. This exploration introduced her to the benefits of positive psychology tools such as mindfulness and gratitude, creative arts, and a newfound appreciation for nature. Sandi’s passion for the environment and emotional health merge to inspire her book, Sky's Search for Eco Happiness. We discuss the invaluable benefits of mindfulness techniques for both parents and children, and the critical importance of spending time outdoors, despite the challenges. Join us as we unravel Sandi's mission to spread happiness and joy to not just children and adults, but to the planet too. It's a discussion you won't want to miss!>> Learn more about Sandi:www.ecohappinessproject.com>> Find Sandi's book here:https://amzn.to/3vAk8hJWatch the full video interview with Sandi Schwartz:https://fb.watch/m_672tzzs4/ Free gift 🎁The E.N.G.A.G.E. Method 📚💕 - Your guide to an engaging and enjoyable story time with your kiddos: https://aidynsbooks.com/podcastgift-engageSupport the showSupport the showWanna be on the show? We're always looking for great authors and educators to join us. Check out the website and share your mission with us! Apply To Be On The Show Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

What if a single children's book could bridge the gap between parents and their young ones, fostering empathy, understanding, and a love for reading? This episode promises to deliver on that thought, as we welcome Eleni Fuiaxis to our show. Eleni is a mother,  teacher, and published author, whose children's book "Picky Patrick" is making waves in the world of parenting and education. During a candid conversation, she unfolds her incredible journey of self-discovery that led her to create this gem, inspired by her two young sons.As a seasoned substitute teacher, Eleni discovered a startling reality - many children had never experienced the joy of being read to. This realization ignited a mission in her to revive the joy of storytelling in schools. Eleni gives us valuable insights into her experiences teaching, and how she is promoting a culture of reading aloud. Moreover, she shares how her book, "Picky Patrick", elegantly incorporates Social Emotional Learning into its narrative, making it a precious tool for educators looking to connect with children on a deeper level.Eleni is a firm believer that everyone has a story to tell, and in this episode, she narrates her own. Listen as she recounts how her sons inspired her to pursue her passion for writing and how her determination to keep her promise to them led to an impactful children's book. Eleni's story reminds us never to surrender our dreams, no matter the challenges we face. So, join us today, for an intimate chat with Eleni Fuiaxis, and uncover the profound impact her work is creating in children's lives, one page at a time.>> Learn more about Eleni:https://www.thekidswelove.com/>> Find "Picky Patrick" here:https://amzn.to/3zPCCgHWatch the full video interview with Eleni Fuiaxis:https://fb.watch/m_4ArYSd5R/ Free gift 🎁The E.N.G.A.G.E. Method 📚💕 - Your guide to an engaging and enjoyable story time with your kiddos: https://aidynsbooks.com/podcastgift-engageSupport the showWanna be on the show? We're always looking for great authors and educators to join us. Check out the website and share your mission with us! Apply To Be On The Show Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

What if there existed a magical world where little eggs journeyed across the globe, learned various cultures, and served their communities? Welcome to the wonderous world of 'Good Eggs', crafted by the charismatic author and teacher, Sandy Ciaramitaro. Her love for storytelling ignited during her childhood and has evolved into a series of children's books that instill virtues, celebrate diversity, and emphasize on community service. These books don't just narrate stories, they create an enriching experience fostering parent-child bonding while exploring global cultures, languages, and customs. Sandy's vision for these books extends beyond mere reading - she aspires to spark empathy, kindness, and compassion amongst children, building a strong foundation that will guide them into adulthood. Her 'Good Eggs' aren't just adventurous travelers, they’re little ambassadors of positivity and inclusivity, encouraging kids to embrace their unique journeys. So get ready to delve into the 'Good Eggs' universe with us as we unravel how these delightful books are transforming young minds one virtue at a time and turning 'egging' into a heartwarming act of community service. Join us for an engaging conversation with Sandy Ciaramitaro and discover the power of these little eggs!>> Learn more about Sandywww.thegoodeggs.org>> Find her books here:https://amzn.to/3PAQukEWatch the full video interview with Sandy Ciaramitaro:https://fb.watch/m_3Qi21bbo/ Free gift 🎁The E.N.G.A.G.E. Method 📚💕 - Your guide to an engaging and enjoyable story time with your kiddos: https://aidynsbooks.com/podcastgift-engageSupport the showWanna be on the show? We're always looking for great authors and educators to join us. Check out the website and share your mission with us! Apply To Be On The Show Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

Every story has a beginning, and for our guest, Timothy Stuetz, it started with a box of bears mysteriously delivered to his doorstep and an offhand remark from his mother. The result? A thrilling journey into the world of children's books and the creation of 86 whimsical tales (at the time of the recording), each filled with lessons on reaching one's potential. In our chat, Timothy unravels his unique writing process and how he often weaves unexpected elements, like nonviolent communication and parenting tips, into his narrative threads. Listen in for a taste of his most recent story - a delightful surprise that promises to engage both parents and children.Most accountants don't abandon the world of numbers for meditation, Reiki, yoga, and Tai Chi. But that's just what Timothy did, trading the certainty of ledgers for the transformative healing power of ancient practices. We discuss how his journey into these practices helped reframe his approach to life, teaching, and writing. In the second part of our discussion, Timothy shares his views on the remarkable effect of reading on a child's development, drawing from his experience with two college students. He also divulges why reading the same story to a child multiple times could just be the secret sauce to boosting their imagination and creativity.>> Learn more about Timothyhttps://www.timothystuetz.com/freebies>> Free meditations, qigong exercises, children’s stories & songs, plus more: https://www.timothystuetz.com/freebies>> Free Webinar: 3 Magic Wands For More Creative, Happier & Empowered Children: https://mailchi.mp/961fc3077dff/3magicwands Watch the full video interview with Timothy Stuetz:https://fb.watch/lWMyv3_upH/ Free gift 🎁The E.N.G.A.G.E. Method 📚💕 - Your guide to an engaging and enjoyable story time with your kiddos: https://aidynsbooks.com/podcastgift-engageSupport the showWanna be on the show? We're always looking for great authors and educators to join us. Check out the website and share your mission with us! Apply To Be On The Show Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

Get ready for an incredible episode that's all about helping your child grow and thrive through the magic of reading! Our special guest, Dave Cole, has a passion for both math and storytelling, and he's here to share his fantastic book series, 'The Math Kids,' which is all about learning and adventure.In this heartwarming conversation, Dave tells us how reading with your child can be a wonderful way to nurture their development. He explains how he came up with the idea for his exciting math-themed books that combine storytelling and learning. Each book is filled with fun puzzles and activities that will keep your child engaged while they explore the world of math.But it's not just about math - Dave shows us how reading can open up new horizons and spark curiosity about art, architecture, and music. His books are not only educational but also a thrilling journey for both parents and kids.We also get a peek into Dave's publishing journey and how his talented illustrator brought the characters to life, making them relatable and lovable for young readers.So join us for this amazing episode where we discover the power of reading and how it can create a strong bond with your child, helping them grow, learn, and dream big!Learn more about Dave Cole>> https://themathkids.com/ Grab the series>> https://amzn.to/3Y2TPhu Connect with Dave Cole on:>> Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMathKids/ Watch the full video interview with Dave Cole:>> https://www.facebook.com/AidynsBooks/videos/467731034687453 Free gift 🎁The E.N.G.A.G.E. Method 📚💕 - Your guide to an engaging and enjoyable story time with your kiddos: https://aidynsbooks.com/podcastgift-engageSupport the showWanna be on the show? We're always looking for great authors and educators to join us. Check out the website and share your mission with us! Apply To Be On The Show Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

Support the showWanna be on the show? We're always looking for great authors and educators to join us. Check out the website and share your mission with us! Apply To Be On The Show Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

Children's book author, Winsome Bingham, joins us for a discussion around Black family tradition, diversity in books, and her Coretta Scott King Award Winning Book, 'Soul Food Sunday'.Learn more about Winsome Bingham>> https://binghamwrites.com/ Grab the book Soul Food Sunday by Winsome Bingham, illustrated by C. G. Esperanza>> https://amzn.to/3d4sE2h Connect with Winsome Bingham on:>> Instagram: https://instagram.com/ArmyVetFive>> Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/ArmyVet5  Watch the full video interview with Winsome Bingham:https://www.facebook.com/AidynsBooks/videos/3849275991963564Free gift 🎁The E.N.G.A.G.E. Method 📚💕 - Your guide to an engaging and enjoyable story time with your kiddos: https://aidynsbooks.teachable.com/p/the-e-n-g-a-g-e-methodSupport the showWanna be on the show? We're always looking for great authors and educators to join us. Check out the website and share your mission with us! Apply To Be On The Show Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

We often hear about adoption from the adoptive parent’s point of view. Rarely do we get to step into the mind of a child and learn what the experience is for them. Once the actual adoption process is finalized, it’s easy to negate all the emotions the child experiences. And while adoption is beautiful, the child often struggles through trauma, separation, and loss.  Before children can even explore adjusting to this new life, their emotions around adoption deserve our attention.  This author spotlight is on Anna Maria DiDio, MSW. Ana Maria is a writer, speaker, women's advocate, adoption life coach, and mother.  Using her own experience, Anna Maria started journaling her adoption adventure to Mexico and writing a memoir and children's book about adoption and blended families. Her book Many People to Love encourages readers to explore what children think and feel about their new family and the family they may have left behind. A sensitive and powerful book that focuses on children's emotions and learning a new culture without losing their identity. Throughout the conversation, we discuss the untold stories of adoption and blended families. Anna Maria shares why it's important to listen to children's voices about their adoption, how to help them process their unresolved emotions and issues, and how to guide and support them on this new journey. She also talks about what led her to adopt, her family's challenges, and her advice to parents considering adoption.Learn more about Anna Maria DiDio>> https://www.amdidio.com/ Grab the book Many People to Love by Anna Maria DiDio, illustrated by Tatiana Lobanova>> https://amzn.to/3oeW6oz Connect with Anna Maria DiDio on:>> Instagram: https://instagram.com/amdidio>> Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anna.m.didio Watch the full video interview with Anna Maria DiDio>> https://www.facebook.com/AidynsBooks/videos/1201865670649421/ Free gift 🎁The E.N.G.A.G.E. Method 📚💕 - Your guide to an engaging and enjoyable story time with your kiddos: https://aidynsbooks.com/podcastgift-engageSupport the showWanna be on the show? We're always looking for great authors and educators to join us. Check out the website and share your mission with us! Apply To Be On The Show Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

Over the last few years, we’ve all taken the time to consider exactly what family means to us. We would venture into the world avoiding unfamiliar people, sanitizing multiple times a day– all to keep our family safe. What a crazy time! A time that made us realize what matters the most, family. A group of people, blood-related or not, that loves and cares for each other because, at the end of the day, Family is Forever. In this episode, we have Leslie Gang in our author spotlight! Leslie is an avid theater enthusiast, educator, children’s book author, and co-founder of Hindi's Libraries, a non-profit organization that donates new and gently used books, founded in 2018 in memory of Dr. Hindi Krinsky.  Hindi's Libraries has donated over 400,000 books and partnered with 650 organizations worldwide! Leslie's book But Family is Forever, represents different types of families to help children respect differences and focus on what matters most. During the conversation, we discuss diversity within the family, but also hone in on commonalities. Leslie also shares the bittersweet story of how Hindi's Libraries started, how they built family and community inside the organization, and how people can make a huge difference with books.Learn more about Leslie Gang>> https://www.hindislibraries.org/ Grab the book But Family is Forever by Leslie Gang, illustrated by Misha Narducci>> https://amzn.to/3Ba0MUa Connect with Leslie Gang on:>> Twitter: https://twitter.com/hindislibraries>> Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hindislibraries/ Watch the full video interview with Leslie Gang>> https://www.facebook.com/AidynsBooks/videos/545156544011831/ Free gift 🎁The E.N.G.A.G.E. Method 📚💕 - Your guide to an engaging and enjoyable story time with your kiddos: https://aidynsbooks.com/podcastgift-engageSupport the showWanna be on the show? We're always looking for great authors and educators to join us. Check out the website and share your mission with us! Apply To Be On The Show Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

The past few years have drastically changed our way of living. It changes the way we communicate, work, and educate our children. While we are so busy adjusting to change, we often forget that our children also need support. Today, the author spotlight is on Dr. Tamera Foley, a veteran educator and advocate for children's trauma and mental health issues.  She is passionate about helping parents and children practice mindfulness, and self-care, and create healthy habits that support their overall well-being with books and journals. Dr. Tamera's book Cassie's Big Change is about a girl and her journey as she adjusts to the changes in her life before, during, and after the peak of COVID-19. She also created an Exploring My Emotions journal that gives children the opportunity to write and record their feelings and reflections, and do fun interactive activities for parents and children.  Throughout this episode, we talk about the importance of having a check-in with your child’s mental health, how to use tools like books, journals, and technology to converse with your child about their emotions, and how to exercise mindfulness with your children.Learn more about Dr. Tamera Foley>> https://www.education4allnow.org/who-we-are Grab the book Cassie's Big Change by Dr. Tamera Foley>> https://amzn.to/3yAgMMt Connect with Dr. Tamera Foley on:>> Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/education4allnow/>> Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/tamera.foley  Watch the full video interview with Dr. Tamera Foley>> https://www.facebook.com/AidynsBooks/videos/779818350136127/ Free gift 🎁The E.N.G.A.G.E. Method 📚💕 - Your guide to an engaging and enjoyable story time with your kiddos: https://aidynsbooks.com/podcastgift-engageSupport the showWanna be on the show? We're always looking for great authors and educators to join us. Check out the website and share your mission with us! Apply To Be On The Show Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe