Episodes

  • Libraries Spark Curiosity

    Libraries Spark Curiosity
    May 14 2026
    If you are looking for ways to introduce your child to book about their interests or new books--look no further than the library! Libraries spark curiosity in many ways, which include:- Access to amazing librarians who are very knowledgable about books- The limitless topics they house- They host many events for the community- They offer more than just books for patrons!Check out this episode to learn more about how taking your child to the library can spark their curiosity! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    8 mins
  • How Experiences Impact Our Stories: Learning about Crouton the Cat with Author and Illustrator Kristine A. Lombardi EP 84

    How Experiences Impact Our Stories: Learning about Crouton the Cat with Author and Illustrator Kristine A. Lombardi EP 84
    May 7 2026
    If you love cats, then this episode is for you! Elizabeth is joined by the author and illustrator, Kristine A. Lombardi. She recently wrote and published the book, Crouton, which is about a shelter cat looking for her perfect person to take her home. Crouton is a very sweet story, and Kristine talks all about where the idea came from, her illustration style in the book, and she even shares ideas about how this book can be used with kids--at home and as school. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    33 mins
  • Reading for Recall

    Reading for Recall
    Apr 30 2026
    Elizabeth was recently asked about what reading for skills looks like. In today's mini episode she shares how you can help your child with the skill of recalling what they read after reading. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    4 mins
  • Bringing Authors to Life: Dr. Karen Huff and the Shenandoah University Children’s Literature Conference EP 83

    Bringing Authors to Life: Dr. Karen Huff and the Shenandoah University Children’s Literature Conference EP 83
    Apr 23 2026
    Are you looking for an event that brings together children's authors, teachers, parents, and children? Well, look no further than the Shenandoah University Children’s Literature Conference!Today, Elizabeth is joined by Dr. Karen Huff who directs the Shenandoah University Children’s Literature Conference. This year marks the 40 Anniversary of this conference and so many wonderful authors are attending.In this episode, you will learn all about the conference - how it began, the virtual option to attend, and the in-person option to attend, the authors who will be there, and a bit about what is planned for those who attend.Check out the conference website here: https://www.su.edu/education/special-programs/childrens-literature-conference/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    39 mins
  • Keep A Journal

    Keep A Journal
    Apr 16 2026
    Today's tip comes from the author N. West Moss. In her book, Birdy, the main character keeps a journal. N. West Moss has been asked about the benefits of keeping a journal. Today's mini episode shares some benefits to journaling and gives steps to get your kids started! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    5 mins
  • The Write Stuff For Early Readers with Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift EP 82

    The Write Stuff For Early Readers with Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift EP 82
    Apr 9 2026
    Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift is back on the podcast! Today she is joining Elizabeth to talk about writing -- and how writing can help boost reading skills. In this episode, Dr. Swift discusses: Why writing is actually a very natural activity for kids The connection between reading and writing and why it's so important to make sure kids have the time to write during the school day (and at home!) The importance of handwriting instruction And, how parents can include writing into the daily routine at home Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    40 mins
  • The 'What Just Happened' Strategy

    The 'What Just Happened' Strategy
    Apr 2 2026
    This week's mini episode tip is designed to support your child with reading comprehension. Recalling and remembering what happened in a story is an important skill that we want kids to be able to apply when they read.If your child reads a book or a passage and can't remember what happened - then this tip is for you!The strategy is broken down into three steps:1) Pick up a book or passage and tell your child that they are going to be paying attention to what happened in the paragraph you read.2) You read the first paragraph to your child.3) Stop and ask your child the question - What just happened?Keep listening to find out what you do when your child is able to tell you what happened as well as what you can do if your child did not understand what you just read. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    5 mins
  • Spring into Planning with Sarah Hart-Unger EP 81

    Spring into Planning with Sarah Hart-Unger EP 81
    Mar 27 2026
    It's a new season! And, to kick off this new season, Elizabeth is joined by planning expert, Sarah Hart-Unger. Sarah is the host of the Best Laid Plans podcast and the author of the book Best Laid Plans: : A Simple Planning System for Living a Life That You Love.Sarah joins Elizabeth to share her planning system and talk about how teachers and parents can plan for daily tasks and also longer-term goals. Sarah makes a case for adding more fun into your schedule and how you can do a fun-audit of your time. We also discuss planning with kids and teaching them to plan.Check out Sarah's book Best Laid Plans! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    34 mins