Why Nothing Collapses and Everything Glows: Quantum Physics for Kids

Why Nothing Collapses and Everything Glows: Quantum Physics for Kids

Author: Jedlie Circus Productions, Inc May 29, 2026 Duration: 56:58

In this inspiring episode of Reading with Your Kids, Jed welcomes Michael J. Wish, author of the middle-grade nonfiction book "Quantum Physics for Kids." Mike shares how a challenge from a fellow teacher—and a disappointing existing kids' book on the topic—pushed him to prove that even the "hardest" science can be explained to 8–12-year-olds with clarity, humor, and heart.

Drawing on his college teaching experience, Mike walks us through a kid-friendly version of quantum physics, from the "purple disaster" (the ultraviolet catastrophe) to Max Planck's radical idea that energy comes in tiny, discrete packets. He explains how this strange, subatomic world helps us understand glowing hot metal, stable atoms, and why the universe doesn't behave the way our everyday intuition expects.

More than just science, Mike and Jed dig deep into mindset, resilience, and learning. Mike argues that success isn't about being "a math person," but about developing "aggressive curiosity" and the willingness to struggle with hard ideas. He shares how he practices this with his own daughter—pushing just past frustration, but stopping before misery—and why failure is really "learning happening right now." He also talks about imposter syndrome, his first humble word-search book, and the joy of hearing a 10-year-old read Quantum Physics for Kids cover-to-cover in one night.

Later in the episode, Jed invites listeners to enjoy a listen-back conversation with author Cynthia Harmony about her beautiful picture book "A Flicker of Hope," which weaves together monarch butterfly migration, Mexican culture, and a touching story of family separation and reunion.


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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