Building links between read alouds and engaged STEAM experiences is a recipe for joyful learning through play. Read alouds can act as a powerful bridge between playful inquiry and rigorous STEM thinking, especially when caregivers and educators treat stories as launchpads for exploration rather than “extras” that are tacked on as an afterthought. When those stories flow directly into hands-on, playful STEAM invitations, children experience learning as joyful, meaningful, and deeply connected...

Picture books prompt so many engaging STEAM challenges and deep discussions about empathy. Have you checked out the read-aloud calendar? Daily picture book read-alouds are one of the most powerful—and simplest—ways to build connection, empathy, and curiosity with children. Whether it’s a story shared at the kitchen table, during morning meeting, or as part of a library program, picture books open doors to conversation, imagination, and understanding. That belief is what inspired me to create...

I am a huge proponent of the literacy gains (fluency,  comprehension, vocabulary, connection) that accompany a  good interactive picture book read aloud. These strategies can  be adopted for all ages – picture books are for everyone, from preschool to adults.  When Jason and Kate invited me to be on their delightful Dear Santa podcast (Episode 11) , we talked about how picture books can help create core memories for families for years to come. We continued that conversation when they joined...