Tales and Tidbits

Michael Kelly, Head of Infant Library at Tanglin Trust School

A podcast series from Tanglin Trust School’s Infant library program, offering parents and educators engaging, research-based discussions about early childhood literacy, reading habits, and the role of books in young children’s lives. Each brief episode explores practical tips, thoughtful insights, and balanced perspectives on topics like the benefits of reading aloud, managing screen time, building home libraries, and fostering a love of books.

Episodes

  1. Mirrors, Windows, and Sliding Glass Doors: Stories that Connect Us

    10/31/2025

    Mirrors, Windows, and Sliding Glass Doors: Stories that Connect Us

    In this episode of Tales & Tidbits, “Mirrors, Windows, and Sliding Glass Doors: Stories That Connect Us,” we explore why diverse books matter — and how stories help children see themselves, see others, and imagine the wider world. Featuring the words of Professor Rudine Sims Bishop, this episode invites families to think about how the books we share shape empathy, identity, and understanding. We’ll highlight the Infant Library’s Free to Be, Free to Read collection and take a closer look at the Red Dot Book Awards, a celebration of shared reading where children in the Infant School explore picture books from all over the world. Infant Library - Free to Be, Free to Read Red Dot Book Awards 2025-26 Early Years Shortlist Further Reading & Sources

    9 min
  2. Tanglin Ted's Centenary Adventure

    05/20/2025

    Tanglin Ted's Centenary Adventure

    In this special episode, we're celebrating 100 years of Tanglin Trust School with Tanglin Ted's Centenary Adventure! Join Jo Osman, Deputy Head (Academic) of the Infant School, as she reads aloud her beautifully written and illustrated picture book created especially for our centenary. Follow Tanglin Ted on a heartwarming time-travel adventure through our school’s deep and rich history. It’s a journey filled with nostalgia, discovery, and the spirit of Tanglin—perfect for families to enjoy together.

    14 min
  3. Tales from the Dark Side

    03/02/2025

    Tales from the Dark Side

    In this episode of Tales and Tidbits, we explore how picture books with darker themes help children navigate big emotions like fear, sadness, and anger. With insights from Seunghee Chung, counsellor at Tanglin Trust School, we discuss how storytelling builds resilience, fosters empathy, and provides a safe space for children to process their feelings. Further Reading & Sources. If the Further Reading & Sources link doesn't work in your browser, visit the Tales and Tidbits page on the Infant Library website at library.tts.edu.sg. You can find it there.

    10 min
  4. Beyond Bedtime Stories

    01/24/2025

    Beyond Bedtime Stories

    In this episode, we explore how, Dialogic Reading, a simple practice can transform family story times into a rich, interactive experience. Discover a way to engage your child, spark their imagination, and create meaningful conversations through the stories you share. Whether it’s at bedtime or any time of day, this episode is all about making story time more dynamic, enjoyable, and impactful for you and your child. Tune in for inspiration to take your reading routine to the next level! Further Reading & Sources. If the Further Reading & Sources link doesn't work in your browser, visit the Tales and Tidbits page on the Infant Library website at library.tts.edu.sg. You can find it there.

    9 min
  5. Reimagining Screen Time

    01/06/2025

    Reimagining Screen Time

    In this episode, librarian Michael Kelly sits down with Katie Cornes, Head of Integrated Technology, to explore how screens can be used intentionally to spark creativity, critical thinking, and meaningful learning. They discuss balancing screen time with books, tips for parents on purposeful tech use, and how screens can complement—not compete with—traditional read aloud time. Further Reading & Sources.

    9 min
  6. Pixels versus Pages

    12/17/2024

    Pixels versus Pages

    Discover why traditional reading aloud remains the 'just right' choice for fostering imagination and development in our increasingly digital world. In this first episode of our Infant Library podcast, we explore groundbreaking research by Dr. John Hutton and his team, revealing surprising ways different storytelling methods impact young minds. Further Reading & Sources

    5 min
  • 6 Episodes

About

A podcast series from Tanglin Trust School’s Infant library program, offering parents and educators engaging, research-based discussions about early childhood literacy, reading habits, and the role of books in young children’s lives. Each brief episode explores practical tips, thoughtful insights, and balanced perspectives on topics like the benefits of reading aloud, managing screen time, building home libraries, and fostering a love of books.

Information

  • Creator
    Michael Kelly, Head of Infant Library at Tanglin Trust School
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    6
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Tales and Tidbits