The Reading To Connect Show

Quinn Cummings
  • 5.0 (17)
  • KIDS & FAMILY
  • UPDATED SEMIMONTHLY
The Reading To Connect Show

A show that encourages families to deepen their bonds and raise resilient kids through the shared experience of reading — with Quinn Cummings and special guests from the world of books and parenting. readingtoconnect.substack.com

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    Stories as Shields: Building Empathy in a Divided World

    In this week’s episode of Reading to Connect, we’re joined by Christy Mandin, the creative mind behind Millie Fleur's Poison Garden. Christy shares how her picture books inspire children to embrace their unique selves, helping parents foster resilience and self-acceptance in their kids. We discuss how simple affirmations and gentle encouragement can empower children to stand strong in a world that often pushes for conformity. Curious about the full story behind Christy's journey and her inspiration for Millie Fleur? Join us next week for in-depth reflections and an exclusive behind-the-scenes video, where Christy shares more about her path as an author and illustrator. You won’t want to miss this deeper dive into how storytelling can connect us all! Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

    47 min
  2. Our Children & The Power of Self-Acceptance

    NOV 1

    Our Children & The Power of Self-Acceptance

    In this week’s episode of Reading to Connect, we’re joined by Christy Mandin, the creative mind behind Millie Fleur's Poison Garden. Christy shares how her picture books inspire children to embrace their unique selves, helping parents foster resilience and self-acceptance in their kids. We discuss how simple affirmations and gentle encouragement can empower children to stand strong in a world that often pushes for conformity. Curious about the full story behind Christy's journey and her inspiration for Millie Fleur? Join us next week for in-depth reflections and an exclusive behind-the-scenes video, where Christy shares more about her path as an author and illustrator. You won’t want to miss this deeper dive into how storytelling can connect us all! Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

    35 min

  3. OCT 18

    Storytelling, Friendship, and Connecting Through Books

    In this episode of the Reading To Connect Show, host Quinn Cummings sits down with Dork Diaries creator Rachel Renee Russell and her daughter, Nikki Russell, to discuss the 16th book in the beloved series. Together, they explore the magic of chapter books, the transition from picture books to longer stories, and how parents can bond with their children through shared reading experiences. The conversation touches on personal family stories that inspired the series, the emotional depth of Dork Diaries, and the lessons in friendship, self-esteem, and kindness that transcend generations. Subscribe here for updates & new releases! Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

    35 min
  4. Serving Joy in Every Page: Winsome Bingham on Children's Literature - Encore Presentation

    11/23/2023

    Serving Joy in Every Page: Winsome Bingham on Children's Literature - Encore Presentation

    This episode is our favorite annual Thanksgiving special and we are excited to dive into it with our special guest, Winsome Bingham. A US Army veteran and educator, Winsome is the author of the delightful children's book "Soul Food Sunday". In the first segment of the episode, Winsome shares about her creative process, passion for cooking, and love for capturing the beauty of submarines in photographs. She also explains why she believes recipes should never be a secret and encourages us to experiment in the kitchen. Next, we explore the importance of teaching children to be self-sufficient in the kitchen. We discuss a book about a young boy's culinary journey and share our own kitchen tales. We also discuss cooking tips and highlight the fascinating chemistry of cooking. In the third segment, we delve into the use of repetition and onomatopoeia in children's books, drawing examples from Winsome's book "Cooking with Grandma". Winsome shares her personal experiences using these tools to make reading more enjoyable for children. In the final part of the episode, we have a conversation with author Winston Bingham about the importance of representing joy, particularly Black joy, in children's literature. Winston shares his experiences navigating the publishing industry and how this representation can positively impact a child's mental health. This episode is not only a celebration of the magic behind children's books but also a celebration of cooking, self-sufficiency, and joy. It is a heartwarming exploration that we hope will inspire you this Thanksgiving. Join us for this enlightening conversation and let's discover the magic behind children's books together! Learn more about Winsome Bingham >> https://binghamwrites.com/   Grab the book Soul Food Sunday by Winsome Bingham, illustrated by C. G. Esperanza >> https://amzn.to/3d4sE2h Connect with Winsome Bingham on: >> Instagram: https://instagram.com/ArmyVetFive Watch the full video interview with Winsome Bingham: https://www.facebook.com/AidynsBooks/videos/3849275991963564 Free gift 🎁 The E.N.G.A.G.E. Method 📚💕 - Your guide to an engaging and enjoyable story time with your kiddos: https://aidynsbooks.teachable.com/p/the-e-n-g-a-g-e-method Support the show Wanna be on the show? We're always looking for great authors and educators to join us. Check out the website and share your mission with us! Apply To Be On The Show Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

    37 min
  5. Embracing Adventure, Imagination, & Homeschooling Insights with Courtney B. Dunlap

    11/17/2023

    Embracing Adventure, Imagination, & Homeschooling Insights with Courtney B. Dunlap

    Have you ever been captivated by a child's expansive imagination? Have you wondered at the transformative power of books in a child's life? We've been exploring these themes with Courtney B Dunlap, author of The Rumble Hunters and a dedicated home educator. Courtney, a former mental health professional and now a mother of four, took us on an inspiring journey from her initial hesitation about homeschooling to her eventual embrace of it as a pivotal part of her family's life. Courtney opened our eyes to the enchanting world of her book, The Rumble Hunters, where the main character's curiosity and bravery mirror those of her own son, James. The book playfully incorporates sound cues, hidden secrets in the illustrations and, impressively, a representation of black children as heroes of the story. Courtney's passion for reading didn't blossom overnight. It was a journey that started with a struggle but has since become an integral part of her homeschooling routine. Towards the end, our conversation shifted to the need for representation in children's literature. Courtney shared her commitment to provide black children with stories that allow them to be the hero of the story. The Rumble Hunters does more than entertain; it aims to empower and inspire. So, join us as we delve into Courtney's unique perspective on homeschooling and the power of reading. It's a conversation that will surely ignite your passion for reading and its transformative potential in a child's life. >> Learn more about Courtney B. Dunlap: https://storiesforuspress.com >> Find  The Rumble Hunters here: https://amzn.to/468So3r >> Watch the full video interview on our FB page: https://fb.watch/omumwwBuJv/ Free gift 🎁 The E.N.G.A.G.E. Method 📚💕 - Your guide to an engaging and enjoyable story time with your kiddos: https://aidynsbooks.com/podcastgift-engage Support the show Wanna be on the show? We're always looking for great authors and educators to join us. Check out the website and share your mission with us! Apply To Be On The Show Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

    32 min
  6. Crafting Courage in Kids: How 'Hurricamp!' by Steph Katzovi Inspires Young Independence

    11/09/2023

    Crafting Courage in Kids: How 'Hurricamp!' by Steph Katzovi Inspires Young Independence

    Welcome to a journey of independence, resilience, and family bonding in this episode of Parenting & Bonding w/ children's Books, as we sit down with author Steph Katzovi. Discover her inspiring chapter book, 'Hurricamp,' where childhood memories of summer camp blend into a tale of growth and self-discovery. Steph's story dives into the heart of a young girl's quest for autonomy, spiced with humor and the wild winds of a hurricane, offering a perfect metaphor for the tumultuous path of growing up. Through engaging anecdotes and laughter, Steph shares her wisdom on how to make reading a cornerstone of family time, transforming it from a chore into a treasure trove of shared adventures. We talk about how 'Hurricamp' can serve as a catalyst for conversations about courage and the importance of making one's own choices, especially when facing life's storms. This episode isn't just about fostering a passion for reading in our children—it's about the life skills they acquire through the stories they love. Steph gives us a peek into how her characters navigate the ups and downs of independence, providing a blueprint for parents looking to empower their own kids. Don't miss out on the special insights and promotions Steph Katzovi shares, directly from her author's journey to your family's reading nook. Join us for an episode that promises to enrich your parenting toolkit and leave you with new ideas to encourage the young readers at home. >> Learn more about Steph Katzovi: https://stephkatzovi.com/ >> Find  Hurricamp here: https://amzn.to/3FVgWSx >> Watch the full video interview on our FB page: https://www.facebook.com/AidynsBooks/ Free gift 🎁 The E.N.G.A.G.E. Method 📚💕 - Your guide to an engaging and enjoyable story time with your kiddos: https://aidynsbooks.com/podcastgift-engage Support the show Wanna be on the show? We're always looking for great authors and educators to join us. Check out the website and share your mission with us! Apply To Be On The Show Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

    35 min
  7. Unlocking Parent-Child Ties through Musical Storytime with Amanda Seibert

    11/02/2023

    Unlocking Parent-Child Ties through Musical Storytime with Amanda Seibert

    Have you ever sung your child to sleep and felt that incredible bond, that unique connection that only a lullaby can create? That's precisely the magic we explore with Amanda Seibert, founder of Mama Sing My Song. Amanda shares her wonderful journey of turning her child's name into a lullaby that eventually inspired her to establish her unique venture. This episode offers a deep dive into the powerful role music can play in enhancing parent-child bonding and a child's overall development. Our conversation with Amanda leads us to understand the uniqueness of Mama Sing My Song - an initiative creating personalized songs for children. Imagine a sweet melody expressing your love, hopes, and dreams for your child, a treasure to keep for life. We also discuss her recently launched children's book that promotes interactive singing sessions between parents and children, making story-time a gala musical event. Beyond her business, Amanda's mission includes a heartwarming initiative to bring comfort to children in foster care. She shares her aim to gift songs and stuffies to these children as reassurance of love and care. We also get a chance to explore her favorite books for young readers and her joy in creating music that strengthens family ties. Amanda's profound gratitude for the ability to touch lives through her music is a journey you must not miss. Tune in for an episode that promises to be as soothing and insightful as a lullaby. >> Learn more about Amanda Seibert: https://mamasingmysong.com >> Find Mama, Sing My Song here: https://amzn.to/3FGBePR Watch the full video interview on our FB page here: 📽 Click here for the full episode with Amanda Seibert Free gift 🎁 The E.N.G.A.G.E. Method 📚💕 - Your guide to an engaging and enjoyable story time with your kiddos: https://aidynsbooks.com/podcastgift-engage Support the show Wanna be on the show? We're always looking for great authors and educators to join us. Check out the website and share your mission with us! Apply To Be On The Show Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

    25 min
  8. Dive into Dork Diaries: A Heartfelt Chat with Rachel Renée & Nikki Russell

    10/26/2023

    Dive into Dork Diaries: A Heartfelt Chat with Rachel Renée & Nikki Russell

    Prepare for an enlightening conversation with the mother-daughter powerhouse behind the beloved children's book series, "Dork Diaries." Rachel and Nikki, take us on a captivating journey behind the pages, revealing the magic and messages that have resonated with millions of young readers worldwide. Ever wondered how humor can be a gentle bridge to address serious topics in children's books? Dive into the vibrant world of Nikki Maxwell, and see how laughter serves as a backdrop to teach empowerment, courage, and self-worth. We explore the meticulous craft of creating relatable characters from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that every reader sees a reflection of themselves in the story. As we get a sneak peek into Nikki Maxwell's dream adventure in Paris in the upcoming 15th installment, we’re reminded of the series' core message: Always let your "inner dork" shine and remain true to oneself. Join us as we delve into the importance of fostering engaging dialogues through reading, nurturing deeper family connections, and the exciting prospects of "Dork Diaries" coming alive in color. Plug in, gather around, and let's celebrate the triumphs and trials of our favorite dork. >> Learn more about Rachel Renée & Nikki Russell: https://dorkdiaries.com/ >> Find  the Dork Diaries series here: https://amzn.to/3Qbdyry Watch the full video interview with us on Thursday, October 26 @ 6:30 PM CST on our FB page: https://www.facebook.com/AidynsBooks/ Free gift 🎁 The E.N.G.A.G.E. Method 📚💕 - Your guide to an engaging and enjoyable story time with your kiddos: https://aidynsbooks.com/podcastgift-engage Support the show Wanna be on the show? We're always looking for great authors and educators to join us. Check out the website and share your mission with us! Apply To Be On The Show Get full access to Reading To Connect at readingtoconnect.substack.com/subscribe

    31 min
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5
out of 5
17 Ratings

About

A show that encourages families to deepen their bonds and raise resilient kids through the shared experience of reading — with Quinn Cummings and special guests from the world of books and parenting. readingtoconnect.substack.com

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