Read-Aloud Revival

I 'm coming to you today with a simple tip that could make a HUGE difference in how often your kids pick up books for fun. In fact, it may seem *too* simple at first, so you're going to have to try it for yourself! What is it? Put the books OUT. Face-out, I mean. Think about when you go to the library- are your eyes drawn to the picture book spines on the shelves, or to the face-out books on display? Do the same in your home and I bet you'll be floored at how those covers will invite your kids to pick them up. A good book cover is simply an irresistible invitation to a child. In fact, my challenge to you in this podcast episode is to: go to a bookshelf in your homepull a few off the shelfdisplay them face-out to see what happens. Don't say anything to your kids about it, just watch what happens. Right now! It's so simple-- it takes 60 seconds. You can place them on a coffee table, a window sill, even along the wall. You don't need to buy any fancy shelves or new baskets or come up with a system. Scroll down if you want ideas-- I'm sharing pictures of how some of our community members do this! Magic, I tell you. :) When you've done it, snap a photo and share on Facebook or Instagram to tell us. We want to hear about whether you child was invited into reading the books and how quickly it happened. Use the #readaloudrevival hashtag so we can find you! In this episode, you'll hear: the simplest way to get your kids to pick up more books on their own (and no, you don't have to spend a cent or go back to the library again)how to keep the delight going week after weekand how to make the most of the books you already own Click the play button below: Listener Guide Use the time stamps below to skip to any part of the podcast: 2:28 Think like your child3:49 How to make books more accessible5:20 The beauty of baskets6:46 Rain gutters, spice racks and more7:31 Face out, right now!10:00 Let us know how it works10:37 Let the kids speak More free resources & booklists Get the best episodes and reources from the Read-Aloud Revival Keep an eye on your inbox! We'll keep you posted whenever we have a new podcast episode or a great free booklist or resource for you. There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again. Email Address I'd like to receive the free email course. Yes! Powered by ConvertKit /* Layout */ .ck_form.ck_minimal { /* divider image */ background: #f9f9f9; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; overflow: hidden; color: #666; font-size: 16px; border: solid 1px #d1d1d1; -webkit-box-shadow: none; -moz-box-shadow: none; box-shadow: none; clear: both; margin: 20px 0px; text-align: center; } .ck_form.ck_minimal h3.ck_form_title { text-align: center; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-size: 28px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal h4 { text-align: center; font-family: 'Open Sans', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; text-transform: uppercase; font-size: 18px; font-weight: normal; padding-top: 0px; margin-top: 0px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal p { padding: 0px; } .ck_form, .ck_form * { -webkit-box-sizing: border-box; -moz-box-sizing: border-box; box-sizing: border-box; } .ck_form.

I 'm willing to bet that you are familiar with Gail Gibbons's work. Not only is she incredibly prolific, she is just one of those authors who becomes our go-to when it comes to learning with our kids.  Gail Gibbons is the author of more than 170 books for kids. Primarily a non-fiction author, her signature style includes engaging illustrations and carefully researched topics. In this episode, you'll hear: why Gail loves making non-fiction for kidshow she manages to fit such big topics between just 29 pages of a children's bookGail's newest book (out today!) which she is especially passionate about! Click the play button below: Listener Guide Use the time stamps below to skip to any part of the podcast: 1:58 Meet Gail Gibbons4:29 Creating non-fiction7:45 Choosing topics17:19 Fitting BIG topics into 29 pages22:03 Gail's newest book24:04 Gail's influences as a child25:47 What's next27:12 Let the kids speak More free resources & booklists Get the best episodes and reources from the Read-Aloud Revival Keep an eye on your inbox! We'll keep you posted whenever we have a new podcast episode or a great free booklist or resource for you. There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again. Email Address I'd like to receive the free email course. Yes! Powered by ConvertKit /* Layout */ .ck_form.ck_minimal { /* divider image */ background: #f9f9f9; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; overflow: hidden; color: #666; font-size: 16px; border: solid 1px #d1d1d1; -webkit-box-shadow: none; -moz-box-shadow: none; box-shadow: none; clear: both; margin: 20px 0px; text-align: center; } .ck_form.ck_minimal h3.ck_form_title { text-align: center; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-size: 28px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal h4 { text-align: center; font-family: 'Open Sans', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; text-transform: uppercase; font-size: 18px; font-weight: normal; padding-top: 0px; margin-top: 0px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal p { padding: 0px; } .ck_form, .ck_form * { -webkit-box-sizing: border-box; -moz-box-sizing: border-box; box-sizing: border-box; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_form_fields { width: 100%; float: left; padding: 5%; } /* Form fields */ .ck_errorArea { display: none; /* temporary */ } #ck_success_msg { padding: 10px 10px 0px; border: solid 1px #ddd; background: #eee; } .ck_form.ck_minimal input[type="text"], .ck_form.ck_minimal input[type="email"] { font-size: 18px; padding: 10px 8px; width: 68%; border: 1px solid #d6d6d6; /* stroke */ -moz-border-radius: 3px; -webkit-border-radius: 3px; border-radius: 3px; /* border radius */ background-color: #fff; /* layer fill content */ margin-bottom: 5px; height: auto; float: left; margin: 0px; margin-right: 2%; height: 42px; } .ck_form input[type="text"]:focus, .ck_form input[type="email"]:focus { outline: none; border-color: #aaa; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_subscribe_button { width: 100%; color: #fff; margin: 0px; padding: 11px 0px; font-size: 18px; background: #6fc171; -moz-border-radius: 3px; -webkit-border-radius: 3px; border-radius: 3px; /* border radius */ cursor: pointer; border: none; text-shadow: none; width: 30%; float: left; height: 42px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_guarantee { color: #626262; font-size: 12px; text-align: center; padding: 15px 0px 0px; display: blo...

When I talk to and meet with other moms, I get a sense that we all want the same thing. We all long to connect with our kids. And, of course, we also want to stay connected - even in the teen years. Well, today's guest knows all about that, and she's here to give us some tips and tricks to be the kinds of parents our kids really need (and want). It's a whole lot simpler than many of us make it. Dr. Meg Meeker is a pediatrician, parenting expert, bestselling author, podcaster, and maybe most importantly-- a mom. I hope this podcast episode is wind in your parenting sails. In this episode, you'll hear: how our kids' identities are really shaped (it's probably not the way you think it is)what our kids want from us more than anything elsehow to make the time we spend with our kids count Click the play button below: Listener Guide Use the time stamps below to skip to any part of the podcast: 1:48 Dr. Meg Meeker is here!3:25 What kids really want8:00 The impact of a peaceful and happy parent10:00 Competition kills joy14:32 Connection, Community and Confidence18:09 Time & attention - how to make it count24:26 The most powerful tool we have ...27:53 The Runaway Bunny (and our teens!)31:07 Let the kids speak More free resources & booklists Get the best episodes and reources from the Read-Aloud Revival Keep an eye on your inbox! We'll keep you posted whenever we have a new podcast episode or a great free booklist or resource for you. There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again. Email Address I'd like to receive the free email course. Yes! Powered by ConvertKit /* Layout */ .ck_form.ck_minimal { /* divider image */ background: #f9f9f9; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; overflow: hidden; color: #666; font-size: 16px; border: solid 1px #d1d1d1; -webkit-box-shadow: none; -moz-box-shadow: none; box-shadow: none; clear: both; margin: 20px 0px; text-align: center; } .ck_form.ck_minimal h3.ck_form_title { text-align: center; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-size: 28px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal h4 { text-align: center; font-family: 'Open Sans', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; text-transform: uppercase; font-size: 18px; font-weight: normal; padding-top: 0px; margin-top: 0px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal p { padding: 0px; } .ck_form, .ck_form * { -webkit-box-sizing: border-box; -moz-box-sizing: border-box; box-sizing: border-box; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_form_fields { width: 100%; float: left; padding: 5%; } /* Form fields */ .ck_errorArea { display: none; /* temporary */ } #ck_success_msg { padding: 10px 10px 0px; border: solid 1px #ddd; background: #eee; } .ck_form.ck_minimal input[type="text"], .ck_form.ck_minimal input[type="email"] { font-size: 18px; padding: 10px 8px; width: 68%; border: 1px solid #d6d6d6; /* stroke */ -moz-border-radius: 3px; -webkit-border-radius: 3px; border-radius: 3px; /* border radius */ background-color: #fff; /* layer fill content */ margin-bottom: 5px; height: auto; float: left; margin: 0px; margin-right: 2%; height: 42px; } .ck_form input[type="text"]:focus, .ck_form input[type="email"]:focus { outline: none; border-color: #aaa; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_subscribe_button { width: 100%; color: #fff; margin: 0px; padding: 11px 0px; font-size: 18px; background: #6fc1...

I don't know about you, but I want to make some really awesome memories with my kids this summer. I don't want the whole season to pass in a whirlwind of swimming lessons, camping trips, and sticky popsicle juice without getting a chance to look into my kids' eyes, get to know them  better, and have some great conversations. If that's you too, then this episode of the podcast is for you. We're talking about three simple steps you can use to connect with your kids this summer in a meaningful and memorable way. No matter what ages your kids are, let's make a fantastic reading summer. [read_button content="Join RAR Premium Membership" link="/become-a-member/#registration" align="center"] Click the play button below: Step 1: Choose a single novel to read this summer You don't have to read a pile of books to have a great reading summer. Just choose one single book and then try to read a chapter most days. If you'd like, pick up a copy of The Trumpet of the Swan and then download my FREE Family Book Club Guide--  you can use it with kids of all ages, and you'll be in good company when you join us! Step 2: Peg your read-aloud time See if you can simply tack your read-aloud session onto something else that is already happening each day. A meal, for instance. If you don't have to work up the gumption to decide to read aloud, you'll find yourself doing it more often. Also, you don't have to read aloud with your kids every single day to make a difference. Just aim for every other day, and see what kind of difference it makes. If you'd like to keep track of how many days you read aloud to your kids 10 minutes or more, use this FREE summer read-aloud sheet to track your progress: Step 3: Talk about the books you're reading Get in the habit of asking your kids, "Who was the most ____ in this story?" (fill that ____ with any character trait). This doesn't need to be a sit-down ordeal. Just ask this question casually as you lather your kids up in sunscreen, hand them a popsicle as they run out the door, or when you're in the car. The key is to focus on asking questions (and don't worry too much if the answers you get aren't especially profound). These three steps will make a huge difference in your child's love of reading, in his or her enthusiasm about books, and in your own relationships within your home. If you want to hear more tips and ideas for each of the three steps, make sure you listen to this episode of the podcast-- because all the juicy stuff is in there! Just click the "play" button toward the top of this post. Read-Aloud Revival Premium Membership is currently OPEN to new members We know a whole lot of you have been waiting for us to open the doors, and they’re open now, for just 5 days. RAR Premium is the best way I know to make meaningful and lasting connections with your kids. We help you connect your kids with authors and with their own imagination, get confident in your homeschool, and tap into an amazing community of others who are doing the same. This summer in Premium Membership includes: Live Workshops for your young writers and illustrators: The Official Read-Aloud Family Book Club:

Can you believe it? It's Episode 100!  And amazingly, we just crossed over a pretty huge milestone here at The Read-Aloud Revival: over 4 million downloads of the podcast. You know, I couldn't have picked a better guest for this week's 100th episode celebration. In today's episode, I'm chatting with Jeanne Birdsall, author of the Penderwicks series. The final book in the series, The Penderwicks at Last is available today, so your Penderwicks fans are going to want to get their hands on that right away. In this episode, you'll hear: what is was like for Jeanne to get her first book publishedhow she always imagined the Penderwicks series as one single storywhich books inspired her writing (I bet you can guess a few!) Click the play button below: Listener Guide Use the time stamps below to skip to any part of the podcast: 1:49 Meet Jeanne3:32 The first Penderwicks book gets published8:23 Jeanne's writing process11:53 Where the story came from14:28 Get signed copies!15:09 Which books inspired Jeanne16:52 What you might not know about the characters21:03 Ahhhh, Mr. Penderwick22:27 Questions about the craft of writing27:42 The hardest part of writing29:26 Let's talk about revision32:23 What's next from Jeanne BIrdsall...33:53 Book 5: The Penderwicks at Last37:58 Fan mail39:14 Writing tips44:06 Let the kids speak More free resources & booklists Get the best episodes and reources from the Read-Aloud Revival Keep an eye on your inbox! We'll keep you posted whenever we have a new podcast episode or a great free booklist or resource for you. There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again. Email Address I'd like to receive the free email course. Yes! Powered by ConvertKit /* Layout */ .ck_form.ck_minimal { /* divider image */ background: #f9f9f9; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; overflow: hidden; color: #666; font-size: 16px; border: solid 1px #d1d1d1; -webkit-box-shadow: none; -moz-box-shadow: none; box-shadow: none; clear: both; margin: 20px 0px; text-align: center; } .ck_form.ck_minimal h3.ck_form_title { text-align: center; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-size: 28px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal h4 { text-align: center; font-family: 'Open Sans', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; text-transform: uppercase; font-size: 18px; font-weight: normal; padding-top: 0px; margin-top: 0px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal p { padding: 0px; } .ck_form, .ck_form * { -webkit-box-sizing: border-box; -moz-box-sizing: border-box; box-sizing: border-box; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_form_fields { width: 100%; float: left; padding: 5%; } /* Form fields */ .ck_errorArea { display: none; /* temporary */ } #ck_success_msg { padding: 10px 10px 0px; border: solid 1px #ddd; background: #eee; } .ck_form.ck_minimal input[type="text"], .ck_form.ck_minimal input[type="email"] { font-size: 18px; padding: 10px 8px; width: 68%; border: 1px solid #d6d6d6; /* stroke */ -moz-border-radius: 3px; -webkit-border-radius: 3px; border-radius: 3px; /* border radius */ background-color: #fff; /* layer fill content */ margin-bottom: 5px; height: auto; float: left; margin: 0px; margin-right: 2%; height: 42px; } .ck_form input[type="text"]:focus, .ck_form input[type="email"]:focus { outline: none; border-color: #aaa; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_subscribe_button { width: 100%; color: #fff; margin: 0px; padding:...

Lola Dutch is a little bit ... much. And yet, she's also like so many of us. I think you're just going to love her! Today, I'm thrilled to be joined by Lola Dutch creators Kenneth and Sarah Jane Wright. In this episode, you'll hear: How Lola came to beWhy so many of us seem to identify with herWhat this book means for instilling creative courage in our kids Click the play button below: Listener Guide Use the time stamps below to skip to any part of the podcast: 2:16 Don't miss this dust jacket6:32 Meet the Wrights8:58 Collaborating on Lola10:56 Lola's companions13:15 Giving kids creative courage14:44 A series!19:16 First experiences20:33 The process of making a book24:17 Naming Lola25:46 Julia Child27:28 Book surprises31:15 Let the kids speak More free resources & booklists Get the best episodes and reources from the Read-Aloud Revival Keep an eye on your inbox! We'll keep you posted whenever we have a new podcast episode or a great free booklist or resource for you. There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again. Email Address I'd like to receive the free email course. Yes! Powered by ConvertKit /* Layout */ .ck_form.ck_minimal { /* divider image */ background: #f9f9f9; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; overflow: hidden; color: #666; font-size: 16px; border: solid 1px #d1d1d1; -webkit-box-shadow: none; -moz-box-shadow: none; box-shadow: none; clear: both; margin: 20px 0px; text-align: center; } .ck_form.ck_minimal h3.ck_form_title { text-align: center; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-size: 28px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal h4 { text-align: center; font-family: 'Open Sans', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; text-transform: uppercase; font-size: 18px; font-weight: normal; padding-top: 0px; margin-top: 0px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal p { padding: 0px; } .ck_form, .ck_form * { -webkit-box-sizing: border-box; -moz-box-sizing: border-box; box-sizing: border-box; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_form_fields { width: 100%; float: left; padding: 5%; } /* Form fields */ .ck_errorArea { display: none; /* temporary */ } #ck_success_msg { padding: 10px 10px 0px; border: solid 1px #ddd; background: #eee; } .ck_form.ck_minimal input[type="text"], .ck_form.ck_minimal input[type="email"] { font-size: 18px; padding: 10px 8px; width: 68%; border: 1px solid #d6d6d6; /* stroke */ -moz-border-radius: 3px; -webkit-border-radius: 3px; border-radius: 3px; /* border radius */ background-color: #fff; /* layer fill content */ margin-bottom: 5px; height: auto; float: left; margin: 0px; margin-right: 2%; height: 42px; } .ck_form input[type="text"]:focus, .ck_form input[type="email"]:focus { outline: none; border-color: #aaa; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_subscribe_button { width: 100%; color: #fff; margin: 0px; padding: 11px 0px; font-size: 18px; background: #6fc171; -moz-border-radius: 3px; -webkit-border-radius: 3px; border-radius: 3px; /* border radius */ cursor: pointer; border: none; text-shadow: none; width: 30%; float: left; height: 42px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_guarantee { color: #626262; font-size: 12px; text-align: center; padding: 15px 0px 0px; display: block; clear: both; } .ck_form .ck_powered_by { display: block; color: #aaa; font-size: 12px; } .ck_form .ck_powered_by:hover { display: block; color: #444; } .

Many of us want to help our children learn a second language, but where do we start? And what if we only speak one language ourselves? Anne Guarnera of Language Learning at Home is joining us today to walk us through it. Although it isn't her first language, she speaks Spanish in her home and encourages families to learn new languages together. In this episode, you'll hear: How to get started learning a new languageHow learning a second language helps us with our native languageHow books are a fantastic resource (of course!) Click the play button below: Listener Guide Use the time stamps below to skip to any part of the podcast: 2:20 Meet Anne4:12 Like learning an instrument ...5:57 Spanish at home7:36 How books can help foreign language learning10:35 Broadening kids' perspectives12:45 Parenting differently13:51 The Read-Aloud Family15:37 Two resources19:42 Order of learning21:53 Help for single language learners24:43 The reason to expose kids to languages25:41 Tips for finding foreign language books30:03 Favorite books for getting started34:48 Where to find Anne36:02 Let the kids speak More free resources & booklists Get the best episodes and reources from the Read-Aloud Revival Keep an eye on your inbox! We'll keep you posted whenever we have a new podcast episode or a great free booklist or resource for you. There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again. Email Address I'd like to receive the free email course. Yes! Powered by ConvertKit /* Layout */ .ck_form.ck_minimal { /* divider image */ background: #f9f9f9; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; overflow: hidden; color: #666; font-size: 16px; border: solid 1px #d1d1d1; -webkit-box-shadow: none; -moz-box-shadow: none; box-shadow: none; clear: both; margin: 20px 0px; text-align: center; } .ck_form.ck_minimal h3.ck_form_title { text-align: center; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-size: 28px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal h4 { text-align: center; font-family: 'Open Sans', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; text-transform: uppercase; font-size: 18px; font-weight: normal; padding-top: 0px; margin-top: 0px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal p { padding: 0px; } .ck_form, .ck_form * { -webkit-box-sizing: border-box; -moz-box-sizing: border-box; box-sizing: border-box; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_form_fields { width: 100%; float: left; padding: 5%; } /* Form fields */ .ck_errorArea { display: none; /* temporary */ } #ck_success_msg { padding: 10px 10px 0px; border: solid 1px #ddd; background: #eee; } .ck_form.ck_minimal input[type="text"], .ck_form.ck_minimal input[type="email"] { font-size: 18px; padding: 10px 8px; width: 68%; border: 1px solid #d6d6d6; /* stroke */ -moz-border-radius: 3px; -webkit-border-radius: 3px; border-radius: 3px; /* border radius */ background-color: #fff; /* layer fill content */ margin-bottom: 5px; height: auto; float: left; margin: 0px; margin-right: 2%; height: 42px; } .ck_form input[type="text"]:focus, .ck_form input[type="email"]:focus { outline: none; border-color: #aaa; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_subscribe_button { width: 100%; color: #fff; margin: 0px; padding: 11px 0px; font-size: 18px; background: #6fc171; -moz-border-radius: 3px; -webkit-border-radius: 3px; border-radius: 3px; /* border radius */ cursor: pointer; border: none; text-shadow: none; width: 30%; float: ...

Last week we talked about reading aloud to kids who can read on their own,  but today we're taking that a step further and talking about reading aloud with teens.  You know the most important thing about reading aloud with teens, right? Surprise! It's not their literary value or whether your teen knows how to analyze a story. It's better than that. (Much better). Reading with teens can be pure magic. It's such a simple way to slow down and enjoy one another's company. And it's really important to enjoy our teens' company! Read more about this and the importance of treating your teen's reading life more like a book club (and less like a school assignment) in The Read-Aloud Family: Making Meaningful and Lasting Connections with Your Kids Through Books. In this episode, you'll hear: what's so magical about reading aloud with teens?why you can think of what you read with teens as adding concentric circles (in other words, we're not moving up, we're moving out)a few book recommendations to read with your teens, even if you haven't been reading aloud to him or her lately Click the play button below: Listener Guide Use the time stamps below to skip to any part of the podcast: 2:34 Reading aloud with teens = magic4:39 What to know about reading with teens6:20 Assignments vs. book clubs8:28 Why continue to read picture books?9:29 Book recommendations for teens12:53 Read-alouds vs. read-alones13:48 3 book ideas18:53 Let the kids speak More free resources & booklists Get the best episodes and reources from the Read-Aloud Revival Keep an eye on your inbox! We'll keep you posted whenever we have a new podcast episode or a great free booklist or resource for you. There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again. Email Address I'd like to receive the free email course. Yes! Powered by ConvertKit /* Layout */ .ck_form.ck_minimal { /* divider image */ background: #f9f9f9; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; overflow: hidden; color: #666; font-size: 16px; border: solid 1px #d1d1d1; -webkit-box-shadow: none; -moz-box-shadow: none; box-shadow: none; clear: both; margin: 20px 0px; text-align: center; } .ck_form.ck_minimal h3.ck_form_title { text-align: center; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-size: 28px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal h4 { text-align: center; font-family: 'Open Sans', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; text-transform: uppercase; font-size: 18px; font-weight: normal; padding-top: 0px; margin-top: 0px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal p { padding: 0px; } .ck_form, .ck_form * { -webkit-box-sizing: border-box; -moz-box-sizing: border-box; box-sizing: border-box; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_form_fields { width: 100%; float: left; padding: 5%; } /* Form fields */ .ck_errorArea { display: none; /* temporary */ } #ck_success_msg { padding: 10px 10px 0px; border: solid 1px #ddd; background: #eee; } .ck_form.ck_minimal input[type="text"], .ck_form.ck_minimal input[type="email"] { font-size: 18px; padding: 10px 8px; width: 68%; border: 1px solid #d6d6d6; /* stroke */ -moz-border-radius: 3px; -webkit-border-radius: 3px; border-radius: 3px; /* border radius */ background-color: #fff; /* layer fill content */ margin-bottom: 5px; height: auto; float: left; margin: 0px; margin-right: 2%; height: 42px; } .ck_form input[type="text"]:focus, .

If there is one thing I hope you take away from this episode - it's this: keep reading to your 8-12 year olds.  Kids ages 8-12 are so fun to share books with, and you can have such wonderful conversations with this age group. Plus, you are continuing to make memories and associate reading with warm feelings. That's a total win! There's lots more in The Read-Aloud Family: Making Meaningful and Lasting Connections with Your Kids Through Books about reading with kids ages 8-12 (in fact, that picture for this podcast gives you a hint at some of the other recommendations for this age range in The Read-Aloud Family!), but today... In this episode, you'll hear: potential pitfalls when reading to 8-12'swhat to do about "the classics"and just a couple of books that I think your 8- to 12-year-olds will love (pssst... that picture gives you a hint of even more books I love for 8-12's. They're all listed with descriptions in The Read-Aloud Family.) Click the play button below: Listener Guide Use the time stamps below to skip to any part of the podcast: 1:28 'A mom-to-mom connection'3:54 Reading with 8- to 12-year-olds6:19 Potential pitfalls9:14 Feel silly reading to big kids?10:15 Introducing the classics11:30 Choosing books13:08 Funny books, heroic books, and more16:22 Heavier content, and talking things out18:45 More Resources for parents of 8-12's20:04 Let the kids speak More free resources & booklists Get the best episodes and reources from the Read-Aloud Revival Keep an eye on your inbox! We'll keep you posted whenever we have a new podcast episode or a great free booklist or resource for you. There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again. Email Address I'd like to receive the free email course. Yes! Powered by ConvertKit /* Layout */ .ck_form.ck_minimal { /* divider image */ background: #f9f9f9; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; overflow: hidden; color: #666; font-size: 16px; border: solid 1px #d1d1d1; -webkit-box-shadow: none; -moz-box-shadow: none; box-shadow: none; clear: both; margin: 20px 0px; text-align: center; } .ck_form.ck_minimal h3.ck_form_title { text-align: center; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-size: 28px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal h4 { text-align: center; font-family: 'Open Sans', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; text-transform: uppercase; font-size: 18px; font-weight: normal; padding-top: 0px; margin-top: 0px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal p { padding: 0px; } .ck_form, .ck_form * { -webkit-box-sizing: border-box; -moz-box-sizing: border-box; box-sizing: border-box; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_form_fields { width: 100%; float: left; padding: 5%; } /* Form fields */ .ck_errorArea { display: none; /* temporary */ } #ck_success_msg { padding: 10px 10px 0px; border: solid 1px #ddd; background: #eee; } .ck_form.ck_minimal input[type="text"], .ck_form.ck_minimal input[type="email"] { font-size: 18px; padding: 10px 8px; width: 68%; border: 1px solid #d6d6d6; /* stroke */ -moz-border-radius: 3px; -webkit-border-radius: 3px; border-radius: 3px; /* border radius */ background-color: #fff; /* layer fill content */ margin-bottom: 5px; height: auto; float: left; margin: 0px; margin-right: 2%; height: 42px; } .ck_form input[type="text"]:focus, .ck_form input[type="email"]:focus { outline: none; border-color: #aaa; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .

Kids who are 4-7 years old often love stories and can even begin to enjoy chapter books. Reading aloud to kids this age can be such a delight! You're also able to have great conversations about what you're reading together. There's a whole chapter in The Read-Aloud Family: Making Meaningful and Lasting Connections with Your Kids Through Books about reading with this age group, but today... In this episode, you'll hear: what you are really going for at this stage (you'll like the answer!)what to look for in books for this age groupjust a few book recommendations

Guess what? The Read-Aloud Family: Making Meaningful and Lasting Connections with Your Kids is now available everywhere! In this episode, I'm thrilled to share a little from the book about reading aloud to your 0-3 years olds. And of course, I'll make a couple of book suggestions ... Of course. In this episode, you'll hear: the most important thing when it comes to reading aloud to kids age 0-3problems you'll run into when reading with babies and toddlers (and how to navigate them)my favorite trick for reading aloud when toddlers are melting down -- it's like MAGIC Click the play button below: Listener Guide Use the time stamps below to skip to any part of the podcast: 2:51 A common question 5:39 Why read-aloud to newborns and toddlers?8:34 What can trip you up9:49 Choosing books for this age group13:04 A helpful trick14:11 Favorite books for 0-3's18:51 Let the kids speak More free resources & booklists Get the best episodes and reources from the Read-Aloud Revival Keep an eye on your inbox! We'll keep you posted whenever we have a new podcast episode or a great free booklist or resource for you. There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again. Email Address I'd like to receive the free email course. Yes! Powered by ConvertKit /* Layout */ .ck_form.ck_minimal { /* divider image */ background: #f9f9f9; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; overflow: hidden; color: #666; font-size: 16px; border: solid 1px #d1d1d1; -webkit-box-shadow: none; -moz-box-shadow: none; box-shadow: none; clear: both; margin: 20px 0px; text-align: center; } .ck_form.ck_minimal h3.ck_form_title { text-align: center; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-size: 28px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal h4 { text-align: center; font-family: 'Open Sans', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; text-transform: uppercase; font-size: 18px; font-weight: normal; padding-top: 0px; margin-top: 0px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal p { padding: 0px; } .ck_form, .ck_form * { -webkit-box-sizing: border-box; -moz-box-sizing: border-box; box-sizing: border-box; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_form_fields { width: 100%; float: left; padding: 5%; } /* Form fields */ .ck_errorArea { display: none; /* temporary */ } #ck_success_msg { padding: 10px 10px 0px; border: solid 1px #ddd; background: #eee; } .ck_form.ck_minimal input[type="text"], .ck_form.ck_minimal input[type="email"] { font-size: 18px; padding: 10px 8px; width: 68%; border: 1px solid #d6d6d6; /* stroke */ -moz-border-radius: 3px; -webkit-border-radius: 3px; border-radius: 3px; /* border radius */ background-color: #fff; /* layer fill content */ margin-bottom: 5px; height: auto; float: left; margin: 0px; margin-right: 2%; height: 42px; } .ck_form input[type="text"]:focus, .ck_form input[type="email"]:focus { outline: none; border-color: #aaa; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_subscribe_button { width: 100%; color: #fff; margin: 0px; padding: 11px 0px; font-size: 18px; background: #6fc171; -moz-border-radius: 3px; -webkit-border-radius: 3px; border-radius: 3px; /* border radius */ cursor: pointer; border: none; text-shadow: none; width: 30%; float: left; height: 42px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_guarantee { color: #626262; font-size: 12px; text-align: center; padding: 15px 0px 0px; display: block; clear: both; } .ck_form .

Today I get to share a chapter from my new book, The Read-Aloud Family: Making Meaningful and Lasting Connections with Your Kids. This is chapter 6 (one of my favorites!), where I talk about how we can create a book club culture at home, and thereby raise kids who read for the love it. This is how our kids become "real readers." In this episode, you'll hear: how and why to create a book club culture in your homewhy we need to read books that don't "count" toward anything!how to help your kids become real readers Click the play button below: Listener Guide Use the time stamps below to skip to any part of the podcast: 3:20 Reading books that don't count 4:42 Schooling it out9:20 The supreme importance of delight11:48 Welcome to book club18:05 Extreme measures20:56 A book club culture at home24:11 Food, glorious food More free resources & booklists Get the best episodes and reources from the Read-Aloud Revival Keep an eye on your inbox! We'll keep you posted whenever we have a new podcast episode or a great free booklist or resource for you. There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again. Email Address I'd like to receive the free email course. Yes! Powered by ConvertKit /* Layout */ .ck_form.ck_minimal { /* divider image */ background: #f9f9f9; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; overflow: hidden; color: #666; font-size: 16px; border: solid 1px #d1d1d1; -webkit-box-shadow: none; -moz-box-shadow: none; box-shadow: none; clear: both; margin: 20px 0px; text-align: center; } .ck_form.ck_minimal h3.ck_form_title { text-align: center; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-size: 28px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal h4 { text-align: center; font-family: 'Open Sans', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; text-transform: uppercase; font-size: 18px; font-weight: normal; padding-top: 0px; margin-top: 0px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal p { padding: 0px; } .ck_form, .ck_form * { -webkit-box-sizing: border-box; -moz-box-sizing: border-box; box-sizing: border-box; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_form_fields { width: 100%; float: left; padding: 5%; } /* Form fields */ .ck_errorArea { display: none; /* temporary */ } #ck_success_msg { padding: 10px 10px 0px; border: solid 1px #ddd; background: #eee; } .ck_form.ck_minimal input[type="text"], .ck_form.ck_minimal input[type="email"] { font-size: 18px; padding: 10px 8px; width: 68%; border: 1px solid #d6d6d6; /* stroke */ -moz-border-radius: 3px; -webkit-border-radius: 3px; border-radius: 3px; /* border radius */ background-color: #fff; /* layer fill content */ margin-bottom: 5px; height: auto; float: left; margin: 0px; margin-right: 2%; height: 42px; } .ck_form input[type="text"]:focus, .ck_form input[type="email"]:focus { outline: none; border-color: #aaa; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_subscribe_button { width: 100%; color: #fff; margin: 0px; padding: 11px 0px; font-size: 18px; background: #6fc171; -moz-border-radius: 3px; -webkit-border-radius: 3px; border-radius: 3px; /* border radius */ cursor: pointer; border: none; text-shadow: none; width: 30%; float: left; height: 42px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_guarantee { color: #626262; font-size: 12px; text-align: center; padding: 15px 0px 0px; display: block; clear: both; } .ck_form .ck_powered_by { display: block; color: #aaa; font-size: 12px; } .ck_form .

Sometimes it can be tricky to find books for boys. It's not so much that they need different books than girls do, but... well... ...at some point, you may find it's difficult to match your boys up with books they love. You know what I mean, right? The kind of books they'll stay up late reading with a flashlight underneath the covers. The kind of books that give them an insatiable thirst for reading. The kind of books that turn them into readers. These books, of course, are not just books for boys. Many appeal to my girls, as well!  But if you have a boy in your life who just doesn't love reading (yet!), then this episode of the Read-Aloud Revival podcast is for you. You can download the printable version of this booklist right here: Get the printable version Books boys love Great! Check your email-- your printable booklist is on the way. If you'd like to see ALL of our printable booklists, head here: https://readaloudrevival.com/rar-booklist There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again. Email Address I'd like to receive the free email course. Send it to me! Powered by ConvertKit /* Layout */ .ck_form.ck_minimal { /* divider image */ background: #f9f9f9; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; overflow: hidden; color: #666; font-size: 16px; border: solid 1px #d1d1d1; -webkit-box-shadow: none; -moz-box-shadow: none; box-shadow: none; clear: both; margin: 20px 0px; text-align: center; } .ck_form.ck_minimal h3.ck_form_title { text-align: center; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-size: 28px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal h4 { text-align: center; font-family: 'Open Sans', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; text-transform: uppercase; font-size: 18px; font-weight: normal; padding-top: 0px; margin-top: 0px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal p { padding: 0px; } .ck_form, .ck_form * { -webkit-box-sizing: border-box; -moz-box-sizing: border-box; box-sizing: border-box; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_form_fields { width: 100%; float: left; padding: 5%; } /* Form fields */ .ck_errorArea { display: none; /* temporary */ } #ck_success_msg { padding: 10px 10px 0px; border: solid 1px #ddd; background: #eee; } .ck_form.ck_minimal input[type="text"], .ck_form.ck_minimal input[type="email"] { font-size: 18px; padding: 10px 8px; width: 68%; border: 1px solid #d6d6d6; /* stroke */ -moz-border-radius: 3px; -webkit-border-radius: 3px; border-radius: 3px; /* border radius */ background-color: #fff; /* layer fill content */ margin-bottom: 5px; height: auto; float: left; margin: 0px; margin-right: 2%; height: 42px; } .ck_form input[type="text"]:focus, .ck_form input[type="email"]:focus { outline: none; border-color: #aaa; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_subscribe_button { width: 100%; color: #fff; margin: 0px; padding: 11px 0px; font-size: 18px; background: #6fc171; -moz-border-radius: 3px; -webkit-border-radius: 3px; border-radius: 3px; /* border radius */ cursor: pointer; border: none; text-shadow: none; width: 30%; float: left; height: 42px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_guarantee { color: #626262; font-size: 12px; text-align: center; padding: 15px 0px 0px; display: block; clear: both; } .ck_form .ck_powered_by { display: block; color: #aaa; font-size: 12px; } .ck_form .ck_powered_by:hover { display: block; color: #444; } .ck_converted_content { display: none; padding: 5%; background: #f...

A Wrinkle in Time is one of my favorite books to share with kids, and it’s featured as one of my top picks for read-alouds in chapter 15 of one of the brand new book, The Read-Aloud Family.  The movie’s release later this week offers families a wonderful opportunity to experience the book together and have some meaningful conversations about all kinds of topics. (This is both an article and a podcast. If you'd prefer to listen to the podcast episode, click the play button below.) Though often recommended for kids age 10-14 years, older teens and adults will find a lot to love, as well. If you’re reading the book aloud, kids as young as 7 or 8 can listen in. 3 simple steps to sharing A Wrinkle in Time with your kids: Read the bookShare an experienceTalk about it It’s that simple. No need for literary expertise or complicated plans. If you and your child read A Wrinkle in Time together, share an experience, and then talk about the book, you will find that both your relationship with your child and your child’s relationship with books will change for the better. Here’s how to get the most out of the The Wrinkle in Time book & movie experience: Step 1: Read the book A Wrinkle in Time makes for a wonderful read-aloud! If you’d like, use the audio book version (so you can enjoying being read to, as well). I particularly like the version narrated by Hope Davis. Audio books are a great way to fit read-alouds in when you’re with your kids in the car, sharing the task of folding laundry, or relaxing together in the evening. If you’re short on time or your older kids and teens haven’t warmed up to the idea of being read aloud to yet (you’ll find strategies to help you with that in The-Read Aloud Family), each of you can read the book independently and then come together to share the experience of watching the movie and talking about it. It’s worth making the effort to either read the book aloud or listen to an audio version, if you can. That shared experience is magical. Step 2: Share an experience Mark your calendar! The brand new Disney movie, A Wrinkle in Time, releases to theaters March 9, 2018, and is rated PG. If you read the book first and then watch the movie, your kids will enjoy pointing out what was different and what was the same. They’ll also likely have opinions about how characters were depicted in the film, and what scenes the filmmakers decided to include or leave out. (Find out more about the movie here.) If your kids are digging the sci-fi nature of A Wrinkle in Time and you’re feeling a bit adventurous, try a simple but fun activity like breaking open geodes or growing crystals. Step 3: Talk about it Ask any of the questions below to spark a conversation with your kids about A Wrinkle in Time. You can ask kids of all ages these questions— the answers will vary depending on your children’s age and maturity level. As you talk with your kids, keep in mind that compelling questions are more important than compelling answers. A child who practices the art of asking questions will develop a habit of thinking deeply when they’re reading in the future. This is what we’re going for! Asking even one of these questions will make a difference in the way your kids think about what they’ve read. Think of the questions as doors. Opening any one of these doors can lead to a wonderful,

Need a few Easter basket ideas for your young readers? We've got you covered! In this episode we're bringing you books and bookish ideas for kids infant-teen. In this episode, you'll hear: favorite children's bibles and Easter booksfiction books that your kids will love to find in their baskets this year Click the play button below: More free resources & booklists Get the best episodes and reources from the Read-Aloud Revival Keep an eye on your inbox! We'll keep you posted whenever we have a new podcast episode or a great free booklist or resource for you. There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again. Email Address I'd like to receive the free email course. Yes! Powered by ConvertKit /* Layout */ .ck_form.ck_minimal { /* divider image */ background: #f9f9f9; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; overflow: hidden; color: #666; font-size: 16px; border: solid 1px #d1d1d1; -webkit-box-shadow: none; -moz-box-shadow: none; box-shadow: none; clear: both; margin: 20px 0px; text-align: center; } .ck_form.ck_minimal h3.ck_form_title { text-align: center; margin: 0px 0px 10px; font-size: 28px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal h4 { text-align: center; font-family: 'Open Sans', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; text-transform: uppercase; font-size: 18px; font-weight: normal; padding-top: 0px; margin-top: 0px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal p { padding: 0px; } .ck_form, .ck_form * { -webkit-box-sizing: border-box; -moz-box-sizing: border-box; box-sizing: border-box; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_form_fields { width: 100%; float: left; padding: 5%; } /* Form fields */ .ck_errorArea { display: none; /* temporary */ } #ck_success_msg { padding: 10px 10px 0px; border: solid 1px #ddd; background: #eee; } .ck_form.ck_minimal input[type="text"], .ck_form.ck_minimal input[type="email"] { font-size: 18px; padding: 10px 8px; width: 68%; border: 1px solid #d6d6d6; /* stroke */ -moz-border-radius: 3px; -webkit-border-radius: 3px; border-radius: 3px; /* border radius */ background-color: #fff; /* layer fill content */ margin-bottom: 5px; height: auto; float: left; margin: 0px; margin-right: 2%; height: 42px; } .ck_form input[type="text"]:focus, .ck_form input[type="email"]:focus { outline: none; border-color: #aaa; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_subscribe_button { width: 100%; color: #fff; margin: 0px; padding: 11px 0px; font-size: 18px; background: #6fc171; -moz-border-radius: 3px; -webkit-border-radius: 3px; border-radius: 3px; /* border radius */ cursor: pointer; border: none; text-shadow: none; width: 30%; float: left; height: 42px; } .ck_form.ck_minimal .ck_guarantee { color: #626262; font-size: 12px; text-align: center; padding: 15px 0px 0px; display: block; clear: both; } .ck_form .ck_powered_by { display: block; color: #aaa; font-size: 12px; } .ck_form .ck_powered_by:hover { display: block; color: #444; } .ck_converted_content { display: none; padding: 5%; background: #fff; } .ck_form.ck_minimal.width400 .ck_subscribe_button, .ck_form.ck_minimal.width400 input[type="email"] { width: 100%; float: none; margin-top: 5px; } .ck_slide_up, .ck_modal, .ck_slide_up .ck_minimal, .ck_modal .ck_minimal { min-width: 400px; } .page .ck_form.ck_minimal { margin: 50px auto; max-width: 600px; } Listener Guide Use the time stamps below to skip to any part of the...