Falling for Learning Podcast

TD Flenaugh
  • 5.0 (4)
  • How To
  • Updated Weekly

This podcast supports educators, parents, and caregivers in gaining the tools and information needed to keep the next generation on track for learning and on track for success! New episodes released Saturdays at 5 p.m. Pacific Time. Follow us:      Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fallingforlearning/.    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fallingforlearning/.   

  1. 2d ago

    Kids Don’t Know How to Read: Why Phonics Matters

    T.D. Flenaugh unpacks the reading crisis through the lens of a veteran educator, reading specialist, and National Board Certified Teacher. The episode explains why many kids struggle to read, how the science of reading differs from whole language instruction, and what parents and teachers can do right now to help children catch up. In this episode, T.D. Flenaugh shares how her own experience teaching reading began in childhood, why phonics shaped her approach, and why she believes consistent support at school and at home is essential. She also discusses dyslexia, the reading wars, and the importance of making reading practice regular, supportive, and shame-free.Episode Highlights02:16 - How she learned reading through phonics  04:54 - What whole language and three cueing try to do  08:02 - Who gets left behind without explicit instruction  09:28 - What dyslexia means for reading development  11:21 - Why structured literacy builds reading skill  13:16 - The reading wars and how publishing shaped them  18:12 - Reading support as a village effort  19:38 - The summer slide and why kids lose progress  21:00 - Simple things parents can do at home  23:22 - Why 10 minutes a day beats one long weekly session  24:43 - Moving forward with science based reading support  Action itemsReview the alphabet and high frequency words with your child regularly.Use short, daily reading sessions instead of occasional long sessions.Reinforce school learning at home, especially during breaks.Seek help from teachers, reading interventionists, tutors, or library programs if needed.Stay patient and consistent, even if your child is behind.

  2. Aug 23

    Paula Banks - A Literacy Expert Empowers Young Writers

    In this episode of Falling for Learning, T.D. Flenaugh sits down with Paula Banks, a creative confidence educator, children’s author, and founder of Lit Kids Create. Paula shares how curiosity, reading, and storytelling shaped her path as an educator and how she now helps children discover that their voices matter before they worry about writing perfectly. Key Topics Paula’s educational journey How Lit Kids Create helps children express ideas and build confidenceThe “Books by Me” program and how students become published authorsWhy “confidence before correction” matters for young writersHow a negative early writing experience can affect a child for yearsThe importance of being your child’s “first hype crew”HighlightsPaula explains that children often shut down when adults lead with criticism instead of encouragement. She shares her belief that kids need confidence before correction, and that adults should notice what’s working before pointing out what needs revision.She also describes how her program gives students ownership over their stories, characters, and plot ideas while guiding them through the publishing process. For Paula, the goal is not just writing—it’s helping children feel safe, heard, and valued. ResourcesLit Kids Create: https://litkidscreate.comInstagram: @litkidscreateFacebook: Paula BanksAnthology: I Got a Story to Tell, Volume One

  3. Aug 15

    These 12th Graders Can't Write

    This episode responds to a viral clip of a Texas high school teacher breaking down because 12th grade students could not complete a short writing task, and uses it as a springboard for a broader conversation about literacy gaps. T.D. Flenaugh and Lauren Moseley discuss what scaffolding is supposed to do, why it should be faded over time, and how teachers and parents can build real reading and writing stamina instead of relying on permanent supports. Key topics In this episode, T.D. Flenaugh and Lauren Moseley unpack the frustration behind the viral Texas classroom video and why the teacher’s tears reflected a serious literacy concern. They explain that scaffolds, like sentence stems and sentence frames, are meant to be temporary supports, not a permanent classroom default. Lauren describes how a basic sentence stem can help students respond at different grade levels, from a one-word answer to a full sentence. T.D. shares that beginning-of-year assessments should show what students can actually do before heavy scaffolds are introduced. They stress that students should be asked to write at grade level, even if they are below level, so teachers can identify the real gap. T.D. gives examples from fifth, sixth, and 11th grade writing tasks, including on-demand paragraphs and five-page narratives. Lauren talks about RTI and data-driven interventions that identify specific skill gaps, such as phonemic awareness, blending, digraphs, and diphthongs. They emphasize that motivation matters and that creativity, choice, and fun can help students re-engage with writing. Both speakers argue that parents need to reinforce reading and writing at home to reduce the long-term effects of the summer slide. They caution against protecting students from independent work, since state tests will require them to perform without help. Timestamps (00:47) Why a 12th grade student struggling to write is alarming (03:22) What scaffolding is supposed to do (06:12) Sentence stems and sentence frames explained (08:23) Why beginning-of-year assessment should come first (09:59) How T.D. assesses writing without over-scaffolding (13:58) Setting expectations without shaming students (17:02) Why first drafts matter and why grade-level rigor matters (20:00) How creativity helps close learning gaps (26:06) Building writing stamina with timed practice (29:18) Bringing fun back into literacy through books and events (31:39) Fading scaffolds so students can work independently (34:19) Lauren on RTI, assessment data, and targeted intervention (39:36) Why independent work is necessary before state testing

  4. Aug 9

    The Learning Process

    Falling for Learning Podcast: Teaching Kids the Learning ProcessThis episode focuses on how children learn, not just what they learn. T.D. Flenaugh explains why teaching the learning process helps kids build confidence, resilience, and a growth mindset that carries into school and life. The message is especially relevant for parents and teachers who want to prepare children for challenges, mistakes, and setbacks. The episode also offers practical examples of everyday learning projects, from tying shoes to cooking to basic life skills. Key topicsIn this solo episode, T.D. Flenaugh explores the learning process as a skill in itself, not just a part of reading, writing, or schoolwork.T.D. Flenaugh connects learning gaps at home with broader educational struggles, including reading challenges and parents who may not have had strong support themselves.The episode explains how learning hard things builds self-esteem, patience, self-efficacy, and resilience.T.D. Flenaugh highlights that children learn best when they discover how they learn, whether through watching, doing, or using visuals.Parents are encouraged to be transparent about their own learning struggles so children see that learning is ongoing for everyone.Real-world examples include selling lemonade, cooking breakfast, tying shoes, driving, learning technology, and hosting Thanksgiving.The central takeaway is that children who understand the learning process are better prepared for school, work, and independent adulthood.Timestamps 00:31 - Why everyday life skills are fading in many families 01:55 - Reading matters, but learning goes far beyond academics 02:53 - Why kids get stuck when they do not understand learning 03:23 - Mistakes, failure, and getting comfortable being uncomfortable 04:48 - How learning builds self-esteem and patience 05:45 - Discovering how each child learns best 09:38 - Fear stops growth, but learning reduces fear 11:03 - Using self-reflection after a task does not go well 12:58 - Learning can take very different amounts of time 14:20 - How learning life skills transfers to reading, math, and writing 15:17 - Why kids who are overwhelmed may act out instead of asking for help 15:45 - Being transparent about your own learning process 19:53 - Teaching children to think through new challenges 23:48 - Growth mindset, persistence, and becoming self-sufficient

  5. Aug 1

    How to Become a Professional Artist

    Nurturing Creativity, Education, and Community in HarveyHow do young artists start by selling drawings to classmates and elevate to getting work commissioned by celebrities to create album covers, murals, and more! The Wright family of artists discuss how art, family, and community can shape the next generation's love of learning and creativity. This episode features artist siblings Malachi Wright and Amoz Wright and their mother Marguerite Wright, sharing their inspiring journeys and community projects, including a powerful mural for Harvey, their home town in Illinois, that symbolizes hope and healing. Key TopicsThe process and significance behind the Harvey mural project titled "The Wall of Therapy"Stories of young artists selling, getting commissions, and reaching celebritiesBalancing formal education and professional careers in art and designThe impact of art as a form of healing, therapy, and positive community reinforcementEpisode Highlights00:00 - Introduction to the podcast’s focus on education, resources, and family stories 00:45 - The origin of the Harvey mural and community collaboration 01:42 - Welcoming the Wright family, emphasizing the significance of art careers vs. traditional beliefs 06:02 - Malachi shares his journey into becoming an artist and his inspirations 09:00 - Marguerite’s experience as a graphic designer and her artistic journey 09:45 - The importance of supporting children’s passions and families’ roles in nurturing talent 11:26 - Selling art work as a child and how friendships and social media helped 12:45 - Early celebrity commissions and interactions with major artists and entertainers 13:49 - The significance of social media in building art careers and professional relationships 17:09 - Amoz’s journey through sports, scholarships, and choosing to study abroad and in college 18:02 - Upcoming projects, including murals, graphic novels, and a museum centered on motherhood and children’s health 19:58 - Details about the Harvey mural project and community involvement 25:19 - A future of ongoing creative collaborations, media projects, and inspiring youth voices Visit Malachi’s website  https://www.thewrightart.net/

  6. Jul 25

    How a Children's Bookmaking Workshop Changed Young Authors’ Perception of Power

    Debriefing the Little Authors Bookmaking Workshop at the Obama Presidential CenterJoin us in this special episode as we reflect on the recent Little Authors Bookmaking Workshop—an inspiring event for children ages 8-12, held at the Obama Presidential Center. We discuss the importance of fostering literacy, creativity, and critical thinking in young learners, and share insights from the workshop’s success and future plans. Key Insights:The workshop engaged children in various creative activities, including book making, illustration, and storytelling.Emphasizing that writing is an art form, vital for fostering creativity and self-expression.The importance of early positive reinforcement, including affirmations, to build confidence.Using real-world events and community partnerships to inspire and empower children.The challenge and rewards of organizing educational events in prestigious cultural centers.Plans to expand workshops and involve students as leaders in future initiatives.Personal stories of overcoming fear of writing and criticism to embrace creative pursuits.Encouragement for parents and educators to prioritize skill-building that gives children a competitive advantage.Timestamps:01:48 - The significance of building children’s understanding of their voice and agency 05:08 - The importance of teaching children to write for critical thinking and self-expression 08:11 - Addressing AI and digital influences on children's writing skills 09:06 - Interactive segment with Angela Bradley, founder of Nia Imani Academy 10:15 - Empowering children through affirmations and self-love 14:17 - Travel journey to the event from California and the determination to participate 22:44 - The role of writing as art and the importance of fostering artistic expression in children

  7. Jul 18

    The Hidden Lessons Learned from Discovering New Passions

    In this episode of Falling for Learning, Lauren Moseley and T.D. Flenaugh delve into the importance of engaging in personal projects to foster growth, creativity, and resilience. They share their own experiences with summer projects, emphasizing how self-directed learning and creative pursuits can rejuvenate educators, parents, and students alike. If you're looking for inspiration to start your own summer adventure or how to support kids' learning beyond the classroom, this episode offers practical insights and encouragement.**Key Topics Covered: Embracing and sharing the chaos of everyday life as part of authentic learningHow projects can inspire creative thinking and problem-solving in childrenThe benefits of self-selected professional development for educatorsUsing creative projects to model growth and curiosity for studentsThe therapeutic and educational potential of horses in health and stress managementHow sharing personal projects can benefit others and foster community connectionsTimestamps:  00:00 - Introduction: Navigating life's ups and downs through projects 01:15 - Caring for Ellie Mae, the horse, as a summer learning adventure 04:35 - The therapeutic potential of horses in health and stress relief 05:58 - The importance of taking breaks to build patience and avoid burnout 07:23 - Professional development as a selfish, joyful pursuit 13:17 - Using arts and writing projects for self-renewal and healing 17:00 - Preparing for the school year with renewed energy and support 18:26 - The value of taking intentional breaks to reset patience levels 20:23 - Unlocking creativity through Julia Cameron’s "The Artist’s Way" 23:08 - Modeling lifelong learning and creativity for children 27:20 - Planning for community involvement and classroom integration of projects 34:02 - The importance of sharing one’s creative gifts for community benefits 35:22 - Listening to inner voices and trusting instincts in creative pursuits 37:01 - Concluding encouragement to embrace ongoing growth and creativity Resources & Links: Julia Cameron - The Artist’s WayPoetry Foundation Fellowship High Horse Docuseries

  8. Jul 11

    The Hidden Power of Instincts in Protecting Children: Lessons from Nature and Tragedy

    Season 4, Episode 2: In this episode, Lauren and T.D. share their summer activities and reflections on technology’s role in learning. They explore how personal pursuits can enhance teaching and how trusting instincts benefit both educators and students. Main Topics:The transformative power of personal and creative projects for educators and parentsThe influence of technology and screen time policies on student developmentTrusting instincts and promoting self-love, especially around hair, health, and safetyEducational innovations: recreational horseback riding, therapy animals, and community involvementBalancing technology use with traditional learning to foster social and cognitive skillsReflecting on recent travels and cultural learning experiencesImportance of self-care, patience, and intentionality for a fulfilling summer and effective teachingTimestamps:(00:00) - The value of personal projects and summer learning adventures(02:17) - Reflecting on travel to Guam and outdoor adventures(07:41) - Experiencing the challenges and benefits of hiking at Tarzan Falls(10:12) - Embracing natural hair and self-love practices(15:24) - The importance of trusting children’s instincts for safety(20:08) - New policies banning screens for K-1 students and implications for classrooms(24:34) - The potential of horses in therapy, learning, and community projects(27:20) - The impact of technology overuse on social and executive functioning skills(32:33) - Rethinking engagement: slides, Pizzazz, and active learning strategies(35:19) - Balancing technology and hands-on interaction for meaningful educationResources & Links:The Artist's Way by Julia CameronLife360 AppDIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills)Distraction-Free Schools PolicyJulia Cameron’s Creative JournalingTarzan Falls, GuamOptional Highlights:The role of self-care and reflection in maintaining patience and effectiveness in the classroomThe importance of trusting and listening to children’s internal cues for safety and comfortPractical strategies for balancing screen time policies with engaging, meaningful instruction

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This podcast supports educators, parents, and caregivers in gaining the tools and information needed to keep the next generation on track for learning and on track for success! New episodes released Saturdays at 5 p.m. Pacific Time. Follow us:      Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fallingforlearning/.    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fallingforlearning/.   

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