Building Super Readers, Strong Boundaries, and Stronger Kids

Building Super Readers, Strong Boundaries, and Stronger Kids

Author: Jedlie Circus Productions, Inc June 23, 2026 Duration: 55:27

In this heartwarming episode of Reading With Your Kids, Jed welcomes back Pam Allyn, creator of World Read Aloud Day and co-author of Every Child a Super Reader, to celebrate the power of reading aloud. Pam and Jed reflect on how the greatest benefit of reading with kids isn't just academic success—it's the deep, lasting bond that forms between caring adults and children.

Pam shares moving memories of her father reading the sports pages to her at the dinner table, even into her teen years, showing that read‑aloud time never has to end. Together, she and Jed explore how reading signals to kids, "I'm here for you. I believe in you." They discuss the importance of being authentic reading role models, understanding the basics of phonics and comprehension, and gently building kids' reading stamina so that reading feels joyful, not exhausting.

In the second half of the episode, Jed is joined by Ashley Bendiksen, author of A Kids Book About Boundaries. Ashley explains how her book helps children ages 5–9 understand emotional, social, and physical boundaries in everyday situations, using clear language and practice phrases families can use together. She and Jed talk about self‑advocacy, online safety, and why early, open conversations about hard topics actually empower kids rather than frighten them.

Ashley also shares her personal journey from surviving abuse to becoming a national speaker and advocate, and how writing for children allows her to equip kids—and the adults who love them—with the tools to stay safe, speak up, and know their worth.


There’s a special kind of magic that happens when families share stories, try a new recipe, or simply talk about a movie they just watched together. The Reading With Your Kids Podcast, from Jedlie Circus Productions, Inc, explores that magic in every episode. While the title highlights reading, the conversations here go far beyond the pages of a book. This podcast is really about connection-the kind built through everyday moments, whether you’re cooking, creating, or discovering a new song together. Each episode brings you authentic conversations with authors, educators, and families who share practical ideas and personal stories. You’ll hear about great children’s books, sure, but also about how shared experiences with TV, movies, and music can spark meaningful family discussions. The underlying goal is always to strengthen those essential bonds. Tuning in feels like getting thoughtful, friendly advice on turning daily routines into opportunities for laughter and learning. It’s a supportive space for any parent or caregiver looking to enrich their family life, one shared story or silly kitchen experiment at a time. The tone is warm, inclusive, and focused on the simple, powerful truth that time spent together is the foundation of a strong relationship.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Reading With Your Kids Podcast
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