Tales of Friendship, Faith, and Holiday Cheer

Tales of Friendship, Faith, and Holiday Cheer

Author: Jedlie Circus Productions, Inc December 23, 2025 Duration: 55:34

Join us for an inspiring episode of the Reading With Your Kids podcast, where host Jed Doherty welcomes two remarkable guests: Dr. Peter Cotton, the celebrated author of the "Fred the Snake" children's book series, and Donna VanLiere, bestselling author of "Looking for Christmas: The Search for Joy and Hope of the Nativity." This family-friendly episode is perfect for parents and kids eager to discover new children's books and traditions to bring them closer together during the holidays.

Dr. Peter Cotton shares the delightful origins and adventures of Fred the Snake, introducing young readers to exciting journeys and life lessons, from crossing the road safely to exploring the Chinese Zodiac and The Great Race. Parents and kids alike will love learning about Fred's transition from bedtime story to beloved children's character, sparking imagination and curiosity.

Next, Donna VanLiere discusses her uplifting Christmas story, encouraging families to embrace faith, patience, and kindness in today's fast-paced world. She offers heartfelt parenting tips, reflecting on how ordinary people play extraordinary roles in the Nativity. Discover how "Looking for Christmas" can help families find joy, hope, and deeper connections during the holiday season.

This episode of Reading With Your Kids is packed with storytelling magic, holiday inspiration, and practical advice for nurturing faith and togetherness. Tune in for memorable stories, meaningful lessons, and resources for parents seeking the best in children's literature and podcasts!


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: 100

Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Podcast Episodes
The Power Of Encouragement [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:13
In this episode of Reading With Your Kids, we welcome back two wonderful creators who are helping families nurture kindness, courage, and curiosity. First, Ruth Maille joins us from Rhode Island to celebrate her new pict…
From the Cross to Our Kids' Hearts: Teaching Emotions God's Way [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:26
In this powerful Easter-season episode, Jed talks with Pastor Sheldon Lee Stovall, a licensed counselor and pastor, about his new faith-based Sunday school series, "Faith and Feelings: God's Ways for Every Age." Drawing…
Gardens, Grit & Growing Up [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:17
In this uplifting episode, we're celebrating two powerful books that help kids grow—both in the garden and in their character. First, Jed welcomes Sharon Rose, landscape designer and debut picture book author of Through…
Wanting To Fit In, Learning To Stand Out [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:10
In this heartfelt episode, Jed sits down with author and teacher Margaret Gurevich to talk about her middle grade novel, Yasha's Amazing Bar Mitzvah. Set in 1986, with the New York Mets' World Series win as a lively back…
Smashed Avocados & Big Ideas [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:42
In this episode of Reading With Your Kids, we celebrate creativity, courage, and the power of stories to help families connect. First, Jed welcomes 12-year-old author and YouTuber Bella Olson, creator of the Avocado Awes…
Seasons By The Lake - Adventures In Greenland [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:12
In this episode of Reading With Your Kids, host Jed Doherty welcomes Naja Lund Aparicio, author of the picture book Seasons by the Lake: Adventures in Greenland, for a rich conversation about childhood, culture, and the…
A Black Girl And Her Braids [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:22
In this uplifting episode, Jed welcomes Jaylene Clark Owens, author of the new picture book A Black Girl and Her Braids, inspired by her viral 2021 poem of the same name. Jaylene shares how the poem—born while she was jo…
Reading, Rhythm, and Resilience [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:34
In this episode of Reading With Your Kids, Jed welcomes two wonderful guests who are using story to help kids feel seen, curious, and joyful—author Jamie Sumner and dance educator/author Teacher Terrel. First, Jed chats…
Live In Louisville! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:37
Recorded live at the COSSBA National Education Conference in Louisville, this special episode of Reading With Your Kids is a joyful tour through the people and ideas shaping public education today. Host Jed Doherty kicks…