Let Them Play: Rae Pica on Joyful Learning and Reclaiming Early Childhood

Send us a textWhat if the biggest gap in reading instruction isn’t phonics or fluency — but motivation?Dr. Diane Jackson Schnoor sits down with Anmarie Paul, Executive Director of Behind the Book, to explore how intrinsic motivation, belonging, student choice, and joyful literacy experiences help children become lifelong readers.Together, they unpack how Science of Reading practices and reading engagement strategies must work together because children don’t just need to learn how to read, they need to want to read.From expressive read-alouds to author visits, STEM-literacy integration, and identity-centered storytelling, this conversation offers practical insights for educators, librarians, parents, school leaders, and literacy advocates.Episode Chapters00:00 Motivation and Reading Instruction04:14 Read Alouds That Build Engagement and Fluency08:34 How Behind the Book Builds Reading Motivation15:30 Literacy, STEM, and Creative Learning18:40 Author Visits and Student Belonging24:55 Leadership in Literacy and Youth Development29:28 The Future of Reading: Engagement Meets Science of ReadingWhat You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy intrinsic motivation is critical to reading successHow read alouds improve fluency, comprehension, and connectionWhat makes literacy programs truly engaging for studentsHow belonging and representation impact reading identityWays to combine Science of Reading + engagement-based practicesHow literacy, STEM, creativity, and storytelling intersectStrategies for building sustainable reading ecosystems🔗 Learn More & Get InvolvedBehind the Book: https://www.behindthebook.orgFollow Behind the Book on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.Download the Adventures in Learning 365 Day Picture Book Read Aloud CalendarSupport the showShare this episode If this conversation sparked wonder, gave you a helpful strategy, or offered a needed reminder of hope, please share it with a friend or colleague. Subscribe • Download • Review • Tell a friend Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a textWhen cold weather keeps kids inside, big feelings can spike—for children and the adults supporting them. In this uplifting conversation, early childhood expert Francine Prince shares practical, realistic strategies for indoor days, and reminds us that the best early learning happens when we stay intentional, flexible, and deeply connected.In this episode, we'll discuss:How to plan indoor days so you’re not “teaching on the fly”What child-led really means (and what it doesn’t)Why teachable moments matter more than rigid timingSimple ways to communicate learning to families—without writing an essayThe power of leading with the positive to build trust and partnershipWhat early childhood can teach adults about conflict, adaptability, and routinesWhy burnout is rising—and what support teachers actually needTimestamps01:41 Indoor-day advice: movement breaks, intentional planning, and being “ready for anything”03:27 Defining child-led for families (and how teachers still facilitate learning)05:08 Teachable moments: what great teachers notice—and why it matters07:10 Creating a climate where teachers feel safe to follow children’s learning08:41 Making learning visible to families 12:18 “Everything we need as adults, we should’ve learned in preschool” (3 big takeaways)15:23 Teaching empathy + conflict resolution through environment and facilitation17:03 What empathy means—and how to meet families where they are20:04 Coaching adults: empathy, communication styles, and partnering with parents24:05 Francine’s story: Head Start roots, coaching, leadership, disability advocacy, and statewide work29:28 Biggest challenges today: burnout, behavior, low pay, and support gaps33:16 What effective professional learning should look like (practical, real, implemented)37:24 Hope: why early childhood still matters—and why people in the field bring hopeLinks & ResourcesDr. Diane’s free 365-day Picture Book Read-Aloud CalendarConnect with Dr. Diane and book her to speak or lead professional development workshops at your next eventConnect with Francine Prince on LinkedIn.Support the showShare this episode If this conversation sparked wonder, gave you a helpful strategy, or offered a needed reminder of hope, please share it with a friend or colleague. Subscribe • Download • Review • Tell a friend Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a textWhat if the most powerful thing we could give young children is time to play?Early childhood expert Rae Pica joins Dr. Diane for a candid conversation about why play, movement, and joy are essentials, not extras -- and how rushing children into academics is doing real harm.🎧 Episode SummaryIn this episode of the Adventures in Learning podcast, Dr. Diane Jackson Schnoor welcomes author, keynote speaker, and longtime advocate for developmentally appropriate early childhood education Rae Pica.Together, they explore what’s gone wrong in early childhood education—from scripted teaching and excessive seat time to the loss of play—and what the research actually tells us about how young children learn. Rae explains why play builds problem-solving, empathy, language, and executive function, how parents can become powerful allies, and why small acts of advocacy can help educators reclaim joy and reduce burnout.This is a hopeful, practical conversation for educators, families, and anyone who believes childhood should be honored, not hurried.⏱️ Highlights & Chapters00:00 — Meet Rae Pica + why early childhood matters02:22 — What’s gone wrong: rushed academics & ignored research07:01 — Why play is “everything” to young children10:32 — What block play teaches (SEL, STEM, critical thinking)16:14 — Why movement fuels the brain19:07 — Rae’s vision of a joyful early childhood classroom25:16 — Research on play, joy, and how the brain learns38:07 — Rae’s magic wand: follow child development39:38 — Advocacy, burnout, and teacher empowerment43:37 — Hope: signs the tide is turning🔗 Links & ResourcesRae Pica's free resourcesRae Pica's online coursesRae Pica's booksDr Diane's 365 Day Picture Book Read Aloud CalendarSupport the showShare this episode If this conversation sparked wonder, gave you a helpful strategy, or offered a needed reminder of hope, please share it with a friend or colleague. Subscribe • Download • Review • Tell a friend Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a textFrom AfroBets to We Rise, We Resist, We Raise Our Voices to a brand-new picture book that sings with history, legendary author and publisher Cheryl Willis Hudson has helped shape what children can see (and become) through books. If you care about diverse children’s books, freedom to read, and the cultural power of music, this episode is for you.Dr. Diane Jackson Schnoor welcomes Cheryl Willis Hudson, co-founder of the groundbreaking children’s publishing house Just Us Books. Cheryl shares why she and husband Wade Hudson created Just Us Books, and what it’s meant to write and publish stories that serve as windows, mirrors, and sliding glass doors for children.Cheryl reflects on growing up in the Jim Crow South and how the lack of accurate representation in children’s literature shaped her mission to publish books that affirm Black childhood, celebrate multicultural experiences, and expand the canon of children’s books. The conversation also addresses book bans and censorship, including how books are challenged by small groups who often haven’t read the full text -- and why that’s an urgent threat to freedom of expression and access to stories.In a moving highlight, Cheryl introduces her “dream book,” When I Hear Spirituals, and shares how spirituals carry history, resilience, and joy while shaping American music itself. She even sings a portion of “Over My Head,” offering listeners a moment that feels like story, song, and legacy braided together.Chapters:01:00 Cheryl Willis Hudson + Just Us Books origin story08:08 Growing up in Jim Crow South + why representation matters13:49 Book challenges, lists, and censorship ripple effects20:01 Reading from We Rise, We Resist…30:13 When I Hear Spirituals + history of spirituals🔗 Links & Resources Dr. Diane's 365 Day Picture Book Read Aloud CalendarFollow Cheryl Willis Hudson on her website, Instagram, LinkedInRudine Sims Bishop: “Windows, Mirrors, Sliding Glass Doors” Freedom to Read / Anti-censorship resources: EverSupport the showShare this episode If this conversation sparked wonder, gave you a helpful strategy, or offered a needed reminder of hope, please share it with a friend or colleague. Subscribe • Download • Review • Tell a friend Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a textA book some adults tried to keep off shelves helped a seventh grader make sense of grief, addiction, and forgiveness and shaped the storyteller she became. This episode is a powerful reminder that books can be lifelines and freedom to read matters.In Episode 169 of Adventures in Learning, Dr. Diane Jackson Schnoor welcomes Dynahlee Star Padilla-Vasquez for a timely conversation about banned books, empathy, and the transformative power of reading.Dynahlee shares an excerpt from her essay, “Thanks to a Banned Book, I Forgave My Drug Addicted Grandpa and Escaped His Path,” and reflects on how Ellen Hopkins’ Crank, a frequently challenged book, helped her understand addiction, humanize a family story, and ultimately choose a path in journalism and storytelling.Together, Dr Diane and Dynahlee unpack why adults fear difficult topics in books, how communication (not censorship) supports kids, and how book challenges often come from organized efforts that pull lines out of context. They close with a hopeful look toward the new year, grounded in the belief that one book can change a life.⏱️ Chapters02:06 Reading from “Thanks to a Banned Book…”07:41 Crank as a transformative tale12:10 What makes a powerful story14:10 Fear, censorship & book challenges19:44 Research, PEN America, EveryLibrary, data, and banning trends26:35 Books vs. the online “wild west”28:23 What brings hope into the new year🔗 Links Dynahlee’s essay in Everyday AdvocacyFreedom to Read / anti-censorship resources: PEN America, EveryLibrary, Committee for the First AmendmentCheck out Support the showShare this episode If this conversation sparked wonder, gave you a helpful strategy, or offered a needed reminder of hope, please share it with a friend or colleague. Subscribe • Download • Review • Tell a friend Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a textWhat if hope isn’t a feeling—but something you do?From caring for orphaned rhinos to writing books that spark curiosity, this episode explores how learning, conservation, and community come together in powerful ways.In Episode 167 of Adventures in Learning, Dr. Diane Jackson Schnoor is joined by Brenda Scott Royce, author, former primate caregiver, and conservation advocate, for a heartfelt conversation about learning from the natural world.Brenda shares her journey from publishing and primate care to writing books that connect children with animals and conservation. Together, Diane and Brenda reflect on their recent trip to South Africa with Children’s Book Creators for Conservation (CBCC)—from reading aloud to preschoolers to hands-on conservation work at a rhino orphanage.This episode is a reminder that learning happens through curiosity, connection, and action—and that, as Brenda reminds us, hope is a verb with its sleeves rolled up.🕒 Episode Chapters & Timestamps01:00 — Writing, Primates, and PurposeFollowing curiosity instead of a straight career path06:30 — Writing Books That Connect Kids to AnimalsStories, nonfiction, and nurturing curiosity08:20 — Helping Children Fall in Love with NatureAccess, observation, and letting kids lead10:05 — Why CBCC and South AfricaTraveling with like-minded creators for conservation15:20 — Meeting Lazula: A Rhino Full-Circle MomentFrom fundraiser photo to bottle-feeding a rhino18:40 — Conservation, Community, and ResponsibilityWhat real change looks like on the ground24:00 — Seeing the Whole EcosystemWhy animals—and learning—aren’t isolated33:30 — Continuing the Work: Chimps in ZambiaSolo conservation work after South Africa38:00 — Hope Is a VerbWhat brings hope right now🔗 Links & ResourcesChildren’s Book Creators for Conservation (CBCC)Wild Tomorrow and blog about the tripPublishers Weekly article about the tripBrenda Scott Royce — books & writingConnect with Brenda on Support the showShare this episode If this conversation sparked wonder, gave you a helpful strategy, or offered a needed reminder of hope, please share it with a friend or colleague. Subscribe • Download • Review • Tell a friend Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a textIn Episode 167 of Adventures in Learning, Dr. Diane Jackson Schnoor welcomes Ann Dye, Vice President of Sales Operations at HarperCollins, for a powerful conversation about books, belonging, and conservation.Ann shares her journey into publishing, how books help children (and adults) slow down in a noisy, screen-filled world, and why matching the right book to the right reader still matters. Diane and Ann also reflect on their life-changing trip to South Africa with the Children’s Book Creators for Conservation, including volunteering at a rhino orphanage, learning from local conservation leaders, and witnessing the power of community-driven change.This episode explores how reading, empathy, creativity, and service connect us—to each other, to nature, and to hope.Topics include:children’s books • literacy • publishing • conservation • empathy • community • play-based learning • hope📚 Key TakeawaysWhy matching the right book to the right reader can change everythingHow books offer a powerful counterbalance to screens and constant noiseWhat conservation really looks like on the ground — and why community mattersHow creativity, play, and service build connection across culturesFinding hope through everyday acts of care, kindness, and commitment🕒 Chapter Titles & TimestampsMeet Anne Dye: A Life in Publishing01:01 – Anne’s path into children’s publishing and sales operationsMatching Books to Readers04:04 – Helping kids (and adults) fall in love with readingBooks vs. the Noise of Modern Life06:06 – Why reading still matters in a screen-saturated worldHoliday Books & Finding “Just Right” Stories09:09 – Gift ideas, animals, and beloved children’s booksSouth Africa: Why This Trip Mattered12:11 – What drew Anne to conservation work abroadVolunteering at the Rhino Orphanage18:17 – Trust, vulnerability, and unforgettable moments with rhinosDehorning, Ethics, and Human Responsibility22:21 – Conservation choices and protecting endangered animalsThe Power of Community & the Green Mambas26:25 – Local leadership, women in conservation, and sustainable changeArt, Play, and Creative Connection31:30 – What illustrators, murals, and playfulness teach usBeing Present in Extraordinary Moments34:33 – Wildlife encounters, awe, and putting the camera downBiodiversity, Humility, and Lifelong Learning37:36Support the showShare this episode If this conversation sparked wonder, gave you a helpful strategy, or offered a needed reminder of hope, please share it with a friend or colleague. Subscribe • Download • Review • Tell a friend Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a textWhat happens when an illustrator channels courage, mental health, and a 600-year-old sarcastic snowman into a single powerful story? In this inspiring conversation, The Snowman Code illustrator Reggie Brown reveals how he transformed a charming seasonal narrative into a visually rich, emotionally resonant world—and how his own life experiences shaped every brushstroke.If you’re an educator, caregiver, librarian, picture-book lover, or emerging illustrator, this episode offers a masterclass in storytelling through art, navigating big feelings with creativity, and following unexpected paths into meaningful work.Episode SummaryIn Episode 166, Dr. Diane sits down with illustrator Reggie Brown, whose artwork elevates The Snowman Code—a winter story that tackles seasonal depression, parentification, courage, and connection. Reggie shares how he intuitively designs characters like Blessing and Albert and how he transitioned from biotech to bestselling illustrator after a life-changing moment during the pandemic.Listeners also get a sneak peek at Reggie’s upcoming 2026 projects, including Walk the Walk and Do You See Me?, plus a heartwarming story of hope, family, and the Star Wars–themed Christmas surprise that changed his life forever.Chapters00:27 – Designing a Story Beyond Snowflakes03:41 – Illustrating Mental Health with Care04:39 – From Biotech to Books: Reggie’s Unconventional Path07:00 – Comics, Storytelling, and Illustration Craft07:54 – A Lifelong Sci-Fi Fan09:06 – Books You Should Know11:15 – What’s Coming in 2026?13:10 – What Makes a Manuscript Irresistible13:47 – A New Source of HopeLinks Connect with Reggie Brown on Website, Instagram and LinkedInCheck out Reggie's Books: The Snowman Code, Magnificent Makers, Santa and the City, Bros, Little Big Man, Who Are Your People?, Support the showShare this episode If this conversation sparked wonder, gave you a helpful strategy, or offered a needed reminder of hope, please share it with a friend or colleague. Subscribe • Download • Review • Tell a friend Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a textJust in time for the holidays, we whisk away on a cozy, magical journey through the enchanting world of The Snowman Code with Simon Stephenson. Warm yourself with this comfortable conversation about friendship, mental health, inner strength, and the transformative power of empathy as Simon shares the creative process behind his debut middle grade novel. SummaryThis week on the Adventures in Learning, Dr Diane Jackson Schnoor welcomes author Simon Stephenson, who unveils the American publication of his debut middle-grade realistic fantasy The Snowman Code. Simon shares his journey from being a children's doctor to writing for films like Luca and Paddington 2. Discover how his experiences with foster care children influenced The Snowman Code, a story about friendship, magic, empathy, resilience, depression, and finding your inner strength. We explore Simon's familial inspirations for the pompous and loving Albert the Snowman. Learn more about the artistic brilliance of illustrator Reggie Brown, whose rich multicultural illustrations add depth and unexpected surprises into this heartwarming story. Plus we envision how the book translates into a potential cinematic adaptation. Timestamps:01:02: The Author Behind The Snowman Code03:26:Blessing, Foster Care, Trauma, and Resilience07:28:Familial Origins of Albert the Snowman12:20:Themes of Empathy, Kindness, Compassion, and Sacrifice15:30:UK Reaction to The Snowman Code18:21:Exploring the Insightful, Layered Illustrations of Reggie Brown20:43:Imagining The Film Version23:52:What Brings You Hope?Links:Purchase The Snowman CodeFollow Simon Stephenson on InstagramDiscover more about Illustrator Reggie BrownSupport the showShare this episode If this conversation sparked wonder, gave you a helpful strategy, or offered a needed reminder of hope, please share it with a friend or colleague. Subscribe • Download • Review • Tell a friend Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a textUnwrap the joy of the holiday season with Jason M. Burns and Kate Kasch as they sprinkle holiday magic in every episode of their Dear Santa Podcast! This magical podcast crossover takes us on a festive journey filled with storytelling, traditions, and a direct line to the North Pole. Whether you're curious about the enchanting travels of Christmas trees or eager to hear from Santa himself, this episode is your ticket to a merry adventure!Summary:Dive into the festive world of Jason M. Burns and Kate Kasch, the creative minds behind the Dear Santa Podcast. Since its debut in July 2025, this podcast has become a cherished companion for holiday enthusiasts. This podcast takes you from timeless traditions to the latest in holiday music and films -- and even includes a Destination Christmas series that showcases the nation's most festive towns. From personalized ornaments to extravagant home decorations, Jason and Kate's seasonal adventures inspire joy and togetherness. Don't miss their special connection with Santa Claus, who answers listener questions and shares North Pole secrets! BONUS On my crossover episode with the Dear Santa Podcast, we talked about holiday books and traditions to help families and children with anticipation, waiting, empathy, and kindness during this festive season. Download the recommended books here.Chapters:01:01: It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas -- Origins of the Dear Santa Podcast09:37 - Holiday Traditions, 12 Cookies of Christmas, and a Direct Link to the North Pole17:32 - Reflecting on Hope in the Holiday SeasonLinksListen to the Dear Santa PodcastEpisode 11: Classroom Connections featuring Dr. Diane Jackson SchnoorDownload the Holiday Books Dr. Diane suggestedSend your questions for SantaFollow the Dear Santa Podcast on Instagram and LinkedInThank you for joining us on this magical journey Support the showShare this episode If this conversation sparked wonder, gave you a helpful strategy, or offered a needed reminder of hope, please share it with a friend or colleague. Subscribe • Download • Review • Tell a friend Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.