Connecting Communities: A Beyond the Blog Podcast - Episode 5: Summer Learning: A Season of Discovery with Karen Windon and Beth Duda

In this episode, Laurie sits down with Beth Duda and Karen Windon to explore how summer can be a time of learning, growth, and connection, not lost progress. From simple tools like the Five Finger Rule to powerful programs like THIS BOOK IS COOL! and the Suncoast Summer Reading Challenge, they share how families and communities are helping children stay engaged and excited about reading all summer long.Timestamps00:27 - Introduction02:14 -  Karen discusses her approach to summer learning and how she invites people in03:09 - Karen talks about the ways SCGLR supports families during the summer months (SSRC, TBIC)07:40 - Karen shares how families and organizations can get involved08:57 - Karen shares a story that captures the spirit of her work10:49 - Karen shares tips on how to keep learning fun all summer long13:35 -  Beth discusses why summer learning is such a vital focus for SCGLR19:42 - Beth gives pointers on how to determine your child’s reading level20:52 - Beth breaks down “The 5 Finger Rule”22:48 - Beth talks about SCGLR’s signature programs, THIS BOOK IS COOL! and SUNCOAST SUMMER READING CHALLENGE26:23 - Big Picture Small Steps26:37 - Beth Shares her biggest aspiration for SCGLR27:26 - Beth boils it down to one step parents can do to help support summer learning29:46 - Connecting with KidsLinks to Learn More SCGLR WebsiteTHIS BOOK IS COOL! Webisodes Suncoast Summer Reading Challenge + This Kid is Cool! Music VideoLearning HeroesSCGLR Calendar for Family Engagement Events Volunteer with SCGLRBlog: Summer Learning: Beating the Summer Slide One Book at a TimeConnect Beyond The BlogBeth on Instagram @bethduda10 or X @duda_bethKaren on X @KarenWindonWant to hear more? Follow us on Spotify, iHeartRadio, or visit us Beyond The Blog!Join The Journey