The Literacy Teacher's Life

Bölümler

• 
  Keep An Idea Notebook 04.08.2026 3dk

  Many authors talk about the benefits of keeping a notebook handy so that ideas can be documented in the moment. When speaking with children’s author, illustrator, and filmmaker, Alan Barillaro about his Buns Rabbit books, he shared his practice of keeping a sketchbook with him so that he can document what he notices and return to it at a later date. Elizabeth tried this with her younger daughter and she has been loving this strategy!So, today’s tip is to get a notebook or a sketchbook for your kid (or students) and have them document what they notice. After a few entries, have them take you through their noticings!Check out today’s mini episode for more about keeping an idea notebook! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  The Magic of Nature: Talking about Birdy with N. West Moss EP 90 30.07.2026 47dk

  Elizabeth continues speaking with authors this summer, and this week's episode features N. West Moss who is the author of the middle grade book, Birdy. Birdy is a beautiful book about a girl, Birdy, and her brother, Mouse, who move from their home in New York City to upstate New York to live with relatives they have never met. This book shows how joy can be found--even after experiencing the most difficult loss.N. West Moss talks about how she developed the characters and why nature (and animals) are so important in life. We end with a discussion of the role of journaling and why it's so beneficial for kids to have a space to write their thoughts, feelings, hopes, dreams, and frustrations.This is an episode that you won't want to miss! Please check out N. West Moss's website and order a copy of Birdy: https://www.nwestmoss.com/about Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  What is Our Country About? 23.07.2026 2dk

  This month, the United States is celebrating 250 years of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. After speaking with Barbara Caroll Roberts about her forthcoming picture book, When George Washington Bowed to the Nation, Barbara shared an idea for parents when reading this book, which is talking to your kids about the United States what is is about and how we got here. You may even decide to take it one step further and ask what it means to your child to be an American. This is a huge milestone for our country, so what better reason to start up a conversation about what your child thinks and knows about our nation's history. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Sharing History with Younger Generations: Writing Nonfiction with Barbara Carroll Roberts EP 89 16.07.2026 29dk

  The United States is celebrating a big milestone--a 250th Birthday! And, to help younger generations learn about our history, Barbara Carroll Roberts has a book about George Washington coming out in August.In this conversation, Barbara talks about the tremendous amount of research that she did in order to write this book (check out her website to see a picture of a very thick book she read!). She also shares the story behind what led her to do this research and write this book (you won't want to miss this story). And, Barbara shares some advice for parents and teachers about how this book can spark discussions with younger children who are just beginning to learn about the history of the United States.Check out Barbara Carroll Roberts's website and preorder her book here: https://barbaracarrollroberts.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Have You Ever… 09.07.2026 4dk

  It's summer! And, that means that it's time for summer reading! If you want to encourage your kids to keep reading over the summer, talk to them about the books that they are reading. Discussing books with kids helps them think through what the book is all about. After speaking with Shifa Saltagi Safadi, the author of the Amina Banana about writing bravely, Elizabeth has been thinking about how we can help kids think more deeply about the characters. This episode shares general questions that you can ask about the characters in the book as well as questions that connect to your child's life. And, Elizabeth introduces the Have You Ever type of question you can ask your kids. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Staying True to Yourself & Combatting Stereotypes with Shifa Saltagi Safadi EP 88 02.07.2026 29dk

  It's finally summer! To kick off summer reading, Elizabeth is speaking with authors about their books. In this episode, Elizabeth speaks with Shifa Saltagi Safadi, the author of the Amina Banana series and Kareem Between. They begin by talking all about the Amina Banana series--where she got the idea for the series and how she decided to tackle tough topics in the books. Elizabeth and Shifa discuss writing authentically and how Shifa represents the culture authentically so that her character's backgrounds are truly seen. The conversation ends with ideas for kids about how to write bravely--and how parents and teachers can encourage this. Check out Shifa's work: https://shifasafadi.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Libraries Offer Kids Access to All Levels of Books 25.06.2026 3dk

  The American Library Association is hosting its Annual Conference this month--and to gear up for the conference, this episode is about the library!Should your child only read books on their level? The short answer is no! So, to look for books that your child will enjoy on a variety of levels, hit the library! And, now is a great time--to get your summer reading stack! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Changes, Challenges, and Core Values: Talking about the Role of Libraries with Dan Montgomery EP 87 18.06.2026 44dk

  The American Library Association is gearing up for its Annual Conference (June 25-29, 2026)--and joining Elizabeth is Dan Montgomery, who is the Executive Director of the ALA.In our conversation, Dan talks about the importance of celebrating 150 years of the ALA, what to expect at the Annual Conference (and why you should go!), and what the ALA is facing today. Libraries are facing challenges in these changing times, but there are core values that they are upholding.To learn more about the ALA's Annual Conference, check out their website: https://2026.alaannual.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Libraries Have More Than Books 11.06.2026 2dk

  To celebrate the American Library Association's 150th Anniversary and their upcoming Annual Conference, this week's mini episode is library themed!Libraries are known for books and reading materials, but they also have materials and resources that serve their particular community. Listen to this episode to learn about some of the materials libraries lend out--then check out your library to see what they have in store for you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  150 Years of the American Library Association with Sam Helmick! EP 86 04.06.2026 27dk

  It's the 150th Anniversary of the American Library Association! Joining Elizabeth is the current President of the ALA, Sam Helmick, who is talking about the ALA's annual conference and why this year is so special.In this episode, you will hear Sam speak about:• The ALA’s 150th Year and how they are celebrating at this year’s conference;• A few of the speakers at this year’s conference (you won't want to miss this announcement!);• Why you should consider attending this year’s conference;• And, what challenges libraries are facing today and how you can help.The ALA's annual conference is being held in Chicago at the end of June (June 25-29). Check out their website for more information about this wonderful event: https://2026.alaannual.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  What are you Reading? Kids Mimic Our Actions 28.05.2026 7dk

  Finding time to read can be a challenge. Schedules are busy and when things get hectic, reading is often the first thing that gets cut out. But...this is a tip that really pays off. It's so beneficial to your kids to let them see you reading. Elizabeth starts with a story that highlights why kids need to see the adults in their lives reading. There are so many benefits to reading in front of your kids. The benefits include: - Modeling behavior that you want your kids to see - Reading is a part of your family's routine - Modeling lifelong curiosity - Shift the focus from screens - The emotional connection that comes when reading Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Acknowledging Service Members with Jeff Gottesfeld and Matt Tavares EP 85 21.05.2026 30dk

  Memorial Day is quickly approaching and to talk about the importance of acknowledging service members, Elizabeth is joined by Jeff Gottesfeld and Matt Tavares. They are the author and illustrator of the books, Honor Flight: Celebrating American's Veterans and Twenty-One Steps: Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier--two books that focus on veterans.Memorial Day is a great occasion to teach children about military history, and both books honor the service of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.Check out both books--and hear Jeff and Matt's ideas for how these books can support kids' understanding of veterans and the armed forces--in the classroom and at home! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Libraries Spark Curiosity 14.05.2026 7dk

  If you are looking for ways to introduce your child to book about their interests or new books--look no further than the library! Libraries spark curiosity in many ways, which include:- Access to amazing librarians who are very knowledgable about books- The limitless topics they house- They host many events for the community- They offer more than just books for patrons!Check out this episode to learn more about how taking your child to the library can spark their curiosity! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  How Experiences Impact Our Stories: Learning about Crouton the Cat with Author and Illustrator Kristine A. Lombardi EP 84 07.05.2026 32dk

  If you love cats, then this episode is for you! Elizabeth is joined by the author and illustrator, Kristine A. Lombardi. She recently wrote and published the book, Crouton, which is about a shelter cat looking for her perfect person to take her home. Crouton is a very sweet story, and Kristine talks all about where the idea came from, her illustration style in the book, and she even shares ideas about how this book can be used with kids--at home and as school. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Reading for Recall 30.04.2026 4dk

  Elizabeth was recently asked about what reading for skills looks like. In today's mini episode she shares how you can help your child with the skill of recalling what they read after reading. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Bringing Authors to Life: Dr. Karen Huff and the Shenandoah University Children’s Literature Conference EP 83 23.04.2026 39dk

  Are you looking for an event that brings together children's authors, teachers, parents, and children? Well, look no further than the Shenandoah University Children’s Literature Conference!Today, Elizabeth is joined by Dr. Karen Huff who directs the Shenandoah University Children’s Literature Conference. This year marks the 40 Anniversary of this conference and so many wonderful authors are attending.In this episode, you will learn all about the conference - how it began, the virtual option to attend, and the in-person option to attend, the authors who will be there, and a bit about what is planned for those who attend.Check out the conference website here: https://www.su.edu/education/special-programs/childrens-literature-conference/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Keep A Journal 16.04.2026 5dk

  Today's tip comes from the author N. West Moss. In her book, Birdy, the main character keeps a journal. N. West Moss has been asked about the benefits of keeping a journal. Today's mini episode shares some benefits to journaling and gives steps to get your kids started! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  The Write Stuff For Early Readers with Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift EP 82 09.04.2026 40dk

  Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift is back on the podcast! Today she is joining Elizabeth to talk about writing -- and how writing can help boost reading skills. In this episode, Dr. Swift discusses: Why writing is actually a very natural activity for kids The connection between reading and writing and why it's so important to make sure kids have the time to write during the school day (and at home!) The importance of handwriting instruction And, how parents can include writing into the daily routine at home Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  The 'What Just Happened' Strategy 02.04.2026 5dk

  This week's mini episode tip is designed to support your child with reading comprehension. Recalling and remembering what happened in a story is an important skill that we want kids to be able to apply when they read.If your child reads a book or a passage and can't remember what happened - then this tip is for you!The strategy is broken down into three steps:1) Pick up a book or passage and tell your child that they are going to be paying attention to what happened in the paragraph you read.2) You read the first paragraph to your child.3) Stop and ask your child the question - What just happened?Keep listening to find out what you do when your child is able to tell you what happened as well as what you can do if your child did not understand what you just read. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Spring into Planning with Sarah Hart-Unger EP 81 27.03.2026 33dk

  It's a new season! And, to kick off this new season, Elizabeth is joined by planning expert, Sarah Hart-Unger. Sarah is the host of the Best Laid Plans podcast and the author of the book Best Laid Plans: : A Simple Planning System for Living a Life That You Love.Sarah joins Elizabeth to share her planning system and talk about how teachers and parents can plan for daily tasks and also longer-term goals. Sarah makes a case for adding more fun into your schedule and how you can do a fun-audit of your time. We also discuss planning with kids and teaching them to plan.Check out Sarah's book Best Laid Plans! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices