The Shocking Truth About Playtime and Read‑Alouds in Today's Classrooms

The Shocking Truth About Playtime and Read‑Alouds in Today's Classrooms

Author: Jedlie Circus Productions, Inc March 12, 2026 Duration: 58:20

Join Jedlie for a heartfelt, high‑energy double feature celebrating the power of stories, family, and big feelings.

First up, speech therapist and children's author Kimberly Delude chats about her picture book series "Freddie the Fly." Freddie is a lovable little fly who struggles with listening, reading nonverbal cues, and social skills. Kimberly shares how a single bored student in grad school inspired her to create fun, kid‑friendly stories instead of dry, adult‑focused "do this, don't do that" materials. She and Jed dive into why reading with kids builds vocabulary, confidence, and connection, why we shouldn't "dumb down" words in children's books, and how parents being honest about their own struggles can make kids feel less alone. They also touch on selective mutism, the magic of a child finally speaking, and Kimberly's tech‑savvy modern fairy tale "Digital Red."

Then we head to Southern California with Wanda Arlene Barajas, author of "Benny the Brave: A Story of Love, Loss and Learning." Inspired by her real rescue dog who loses a front leg, Wanda's book gently helps kids explore fear, sadness, frustration, and hope. She and Jed talk about preparing kids for life's hard changes before they happen, coping in healthy ways, and how one accident pushed her to finally pursue her dream of writing. Wanda also celebrates the rich, family‑centered culture of Puerto Rico and teases her upcoming book "Karina and Sabi: A Journey to the Heart of Cidra," which spotlights an endangered local dove and the importance of caring for our world.

A warm, inspiring episode for anyone who loves kids, books, dogs, or Puerto Rico.


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
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