S2E4 Little Library: Mr Huff

Welcome to a brand-new episode of Learn Play Thrive’s Little Library mini-series, where host Linda Harrison is joined by Linda Stock—a qualified early childhood educator, therapeutic practitioner, and university lecturer specialising in children’s literature. In this illuminating conversation, the two experts dive deep into the emotional landscapes of picture books, focusing on Anna Walker’s award-winning story, Mr Huff. Linda Stock draws upon her extensive background in Bibliotherapy and Narrative Therapy to explain how the story externalises a child’s anxiety, turning a heavy emotion into a separate entity—a grey cloud named "Mr Huff"—that children can look at, talk to, and walk beside rather than being defined by it.This episode focuses on how emotional literacy, highlighting how one-on-one shared reading acts as a form of therapy by fostering secure attachments. The discussion introduces the concept of the 'Third Space'—the sacred, imaginative zone between a child’s inner world and an adult’s understanding where meaningful emotional growth unfolds. Listeners will take away a  strength-based toolkit for helping young children feel safe, secure, and deeply supported through the use of picture books. If you enjoyed this episode, consider leaving us a review on your favourite podcast platform.Have questions or feedback? Connect with us on social media or email us at [email protected] with Us:- Website: www.learnplaythrive.com.au- Instagram: @learnplaythrive_- Facebook: @Learn Play Thrive Australia- Email: [email protected]