Little Kids, Big Hearts

Welcome friends! We're so glad you're joining us for a brand new Storytime episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast.In this episode, Todd and special guest Leo, Todd's former student, bring an original story to life set in the Land of Qook-a-lackas.The story follows Quinjamin, a young Qook-a-leekie who loves mornings best: extra fluffy pancakes with quiddleberry drizzle, walks through the meadow, and time with their beloved grown-up Quillow. But every so often, Quillow has to leave on a helping journey to the Isle of Linkish, to check on old friends called the Linkadoos and lend a hand wherever it is needed.Before leaving, Quillow gives Quinjamin something special: a long braided string and a little basket of wooden story pieces, stars, flowers, feathers, hearts, and more, waiting to be painted. The idea: every time something makes your heart grow while we are apart, decorate one and add it to the story string. Because even when we are apart, our stories keep growing.What follows is a tender and beautifully told story about missing someone, keeping going anyway, and the surprising discovery that love does not pause just because two people are far apart. It stretches. It gathers stories. And when they are together again, there is even more to share.Featuring Leo, Todd's former student.Perfect for kids ages 3-11, military families, and for listening together as a family.In This Episode, Kids Will:Travel to the Land of Qook-a-lackas for an original story about love and distanceMeet Quinjamin and Quillow, and discover the magic of the Story StringHear that missing someone and having fun on the same day can both be trueLearn that our hearts are big enough to hold more than one feeling at onceBe inspired to make their own Story String while someone they love is awayGrown-Ups, You Can Extend the Storytime By:Asking your child: "What would you put on your Story String today?"Making a Story String together using string, paper, or wooden piecesTalking about how your family keeps growing even when someone is awaySharing a memory from a time you were apart from someone you love and what helpedAbout Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share: If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd. It's produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod and Adrianna Arocho. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from the Big Heart Beats album.🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website: https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Welcome friends! We're so glad you're joining us for a brand new Mission episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast.In this episode, Todd is joined by co-host Georgia, calling in from Fort Lauderdale where she is spending some of the summer with her grandparents. Together they dig into something a lot of kids know about: The way missing someone can feel the biggest right at bedtime, when everything gets quiet and your brain starts thinking.Georgia shares her own bedtime routine, her doll Lila, her love of reading while listening to a story at the same time, and her firm belief that experiments are how you figure out what works, and that it is okay to try again and again until you get it right. She and Todd also discover something they have in common: they both have ADHD, which makes stopping the brain at bedtime a little trickier and a little more worth talking about. They also listen back to clips from three kids in a recent episode, Jack, Harper, and Nile, who each have a parent in the military, and talk about what helps them feel safe and cozy when someone they love is away.At the end of the episode, kids listening at home get their mission: Make your very own Bedtime Brave Plan. Think of three things that help you feel safe, calm, and cozy before bed, draw them on a piece of paper, and share them with a grown-up you love.Perfect for kids ages 3-11 and for listening together as a family.In This Episode, Kids Will:Hear Georgia's own bedtime routine and what helps her feel cozy and brave at nightListen to real kids share what helps them feel safe when someone they love is awayLearn that missing someone and feeling okay can both be true at the same timeDiscover that a bedtime routine helps your brain know it is time to restGet a mission to make their very own Bedtime Brave PlanGrown-Ups, You Can Extend the Mission By:Asking your child: "What are three things that help you feel cozy at bedtime?"Making a Bedtime Brave Plan together and putting it somewhere your child can see itTalking about what it feels like when someone we love has to go away for a whileTrying something new in your bedtime routine and treating it like an experimentSending your child's Bedtime Brave Plan drawing to the show so we can share it ([email protected])About Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share:If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd. It's produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod and Adrianna Arocho. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from The Big Heart Beats album.🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website: https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Welcome friends! We're so glad you're joining us for a brand new Kidventure episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast.In this episode, Todd travels to the Land of Qook-a-lackas by moonlight with Jack, Harper, and Nile, three kids who each have a parent serving in the military. There they meet Quodger, a Qook-a-lacka whose grown-up is far away helping care for the moon mirrors past the misty mountains. A big cloud storm has interrupted the moon phone calls, and Quodger is feeling the quiet in a big way.Together, the kids become Moon Helpers and come up with two ideas that Quodger, and any kid missing someone they love, can actually use: Moon Messages, drawings or notes you can send to someone far away to let them know you are thinking of them, and a Cozy Kit, a collection of soft and comforting things to help get through the hard moments at home.Along the way, Jack shares the sloth stuffy that plays his dad's voice when you squeeze its belly, Harper talks about the feeling that a parent might be gone for 100 years, and Nile reminds everyone that calling an auntie counts too.Featuring the voice of Quodger, played by actor Roger Clark.Perfect for kids ages 3-11, military families, and for listening together as a family.In This Episode, Kids Will:Travel to the Land of Qook-a-lackas on ribbons of moonlightMeet Quodger, a Qook-a-lacka who is missing their grown-up and needs some helpLearn two real strategies for coping when someone you love is far awayDiscover that missing someone and being proud of them can both be true at onceBe reminded that they are not alone, even when things feel quiet and hardGrown-Ups, You Can Extend the Kidventure By:Asking your child: "What would you put in a Moon Message for someone you love?"Making a Cozy Kit together with a stuffy, a blanket, and a favorite treatStarting a countdown calendar until your loved one comes homeTalking about all the feelings it is okay to have when someone is awayEncouraging your child to draw a picture or write a note to send to someone far awayAbout Roger Clark: Roger Clark is an actor with over 25 years of experience across stage, screen, voiceover, and performance capture, having performed in nearly 50 countries. He is best known for his role as Arthur Morgan in Red Dead Redemption 2, which earned him the 2018 Game Award for Best Performance and a BAFTA nomination.About Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share: If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd. It's produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod and Adrianna Arocho. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth with ukulele music by Bill English. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from The Big Heart Beats Album.🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website: https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Welcome friends! In this Interview episode, Todd is joined by writer, songwriter, and co-creator of Lulu is a Rhinoceros, Allison Flom, and seven-year-old kid interviewer Briar, who came prepared with thoughtful questions that kept everyone on their toes.Together, they dig into what it really means to be yourself, even when others do not understand. Allison shares how she and her father co-created Lulu, a bulldog who knows she is a rhinoceros on the inside, and what it meant to watch that book become an animated musical special on TV. They talk about why kindness starts with listening, why curiosity is so much better than judgment, and why the song at the heart of the special, The Perfect Me, includes the lyric "I'm easy to love" as a personal Easter egg from a moment that changed Allison's life.Briar brings everything: Great questions, a story about being the only girl in her preschool class, and a final thought about Lulu that stopped everyone in their tracks. They also listen to The Perfect Me together live, and the room has feelings.A second Lulu book, "Lulu Makes the Band," is on the way.Perfect for kids ages 3-11 and for listening together as a family.In This Episode, Kids Will:Hear how "Lulu is a Rhinoceros" went from a picture book to an animated musical special on televisionLearn why the story's message, the perfect me is me, matters for every kidDiscover why curiosity is a superpower and judgment is a dead endBe reminded that bravery means doing something even when you feel scaredHear "The Perfect Me" performed live during the episodeGrown-Ups, You Can Extend the Listening By:Asking your child: "What is one thing about yourself that makes you the perfect you?"Reading or watching "Lulu is a Rhinoceros" together after listeningTalking about a time your child tried something newPracticing saying "I'm easy to love" together out loudAbout Allison Flom: Allison Flom is a writer, songwriter, and advocate based in New York City. Her work explores themes of identity, justice, and human rights. She co-authored Lulu is a Rhinoceros with her father Jason Flom, then wrote the teleplay and original lyrics for the animated musical special of the same name, featuring the voices of Auli'i Cravalho, Alex Newell, and Dulé Hill, among others. A second book in the series, "Lulu Makes the Band," is coming soon.About Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share:If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd. It's produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod and Adrianna Arocho. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from the Big Heart Beats album.🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website: https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Welcome friends! We're so glad you're joining us for a brand new Storytime episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast.In this episode, Todd, Vivien, and Kit bring an original story to life, set in the Land of Qook-a-lackas, where the hills roll like soft green blankets and the streams hum sleepy songs.The story follows Quivian, a young Qook-a-leekie who loves nothing more than climbing to a hilltop called Twinkle Top every evening to study the stars. Quivian does not just look at them. They sketch them, map them, and give them wonderfully silly names: the Dancing Pickle, the Sleepy Sandwich, the Flying Pancake, and the Extremely Dramatic Turnip. While everyone else prepares for the beloved Quiddleberry Gathering, baking pies, painting banners, and building glowing lanterns, Quivian wonders whether something as small as naming stars could ever really matter.Then the Moon Muffin Mist rolls in, and everything changes.This is a story about curiosity, about the things that make us different, and about how the interests that feel most like ours can sometimes become the gifts we never knew we had to offer.Featuring Vivien, age seven, and Kit, age thirteen.Perfect for kids ages 3-11 and for listening together as a family.In This Episode, Kids Will:Be swept away to the Land of Qook-a-lackas for an original storytime adventureMeet Quivian, a Qook-a-leekie whose love of stargazing sets them apart from the crowdDiscover what happens when the Moon Muffin Mist rolls in during the Quiddleberry GatheringLearn that the things that make you curious and different can become gifts you shareHear a story that celebrates being exactly who you areGrown-Ups, You Can Extend the Storytime By:Asking your child: "What would you name a constellation if you could?"Talking about something your child loves that might seem small but feels important to themEncouraging your child to keep paying attention to the things that spark their curiositySharing a time when something you loved turned out to be more useful than you expectedAbout Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share:If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd. It's produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod and Adrianna Arocho. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from the Big Heart Beats album.🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website: https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Welcome friends! We're so glad you're joining us for a brand new Mission episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast.In this episode, Todd is joined by co-host Georgia for a warm and curious conversation about identity, the things that make each of us uniquely ourselves. Georgia's class has been studying identity through self-portraits and the origins of their names. She comes in full of ideas, including her talent for giving compliments, her love of creating things in her own special craft space, and a very impressive fake cry she performs live.Together, Todd and Georgia listen to three kids share what lights them up: Vivian talks about gymnastics and the things that challenge her in the best way, Charles shares his love of Roblox and his deep curiosity about the Titanic, and Summer describes the joy of playing hide and seek at the park and noticing the world around her. Each story reveals something true: being yourself does not look one way. It shows up through games, art, curiosity, movement, and connection.At the end of the episode, kids listening at home get their own mission: pay attention to something you really enjoy this month, notice when you feel most like yourself, tell someone about it, and ask them what makes them feel like themselves, too.Perfect for kids ages 3-11 and for listening together as a family.In This Episode, Kids Will:Hear real kids describe the interests and passions that make them feel most like themselvesExplore how identity shows up in all kinds of different waysDiscover that you cannot tell what someone loves just by looking at themReflect on what makes them feel most like themselvesGet a mission to notice, share, and askGrown-Ups, You Can Extend the Mission By:Asking your child: "When do you feel most like yourself?"Sharing what lights you up and letting your child ask you questions about itNoticing and naming something specific your child does that feels uniquely themEncouraging your child to try the mission with a friend, sibling, or grandparentAbout Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share: If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd. It's produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod and Adrianna Arocho. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from the Big Heart Beats album.🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website: https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Welcome friends! We're so glad you're joining us for a brand new Kidventure episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast.In this episode, Todd travels to the Land of Qook-a-lackas with Charles, age nine, Vivien, age seven and a half, and Summer, age five, where they meet Quivvy, a Qook-a-leekie who loves performing more than anything in the world. Quivvy sings, dances, turns every game into a show, and fills a journal with ideas for new performances. Quvvy’s sparkles used to burst everywhere. But lately, some friends have been pulling away, and Quivvy has started dimming those sparkles just to fit in.Together, the kids help Quivvy figure out something really important: you do not have to choose between being yourself and keeping your friends. Along the way, they share what lights them up, from Charles and his deep knowledge of the Titanic, to Vivien's gymnastics and piano, to Summer's pageants and ballet, and discover that the things that make us different are the very things worth celebrating.Perfect for kids ages 3-11 and for listening together as a family.In This Episode, Kids Will:Travel to the Land of Qook-a-lackas through a glowing doorway and their own imaginationsHelp Quivvy figure out how to stay true to herself while leaving room for her friendsShare the things that make them uniquely themselves and feel lit up insideLearn that friendships can stretch and grow without anyone having to shrinkDiscover that being yourself sometimes means letting other sparkles shine tooGrown-Ups, You Can Extend the Kidventure By:Asking your child: "What is one thing that makes your sparkle shine brightest?"Noticing and naming what lights your child up, even if it surprises youTalking about a time you felt like you had to hide something you loved to fit inEncouraging your child to try the week's mission: do one thing this week that feels like you🎭 Special Guest Qook-a-lacka: Crystal Clarke is an American actor and developing writer working across film, television, and voiceover in the UK and US. She is known for portraying Georgiana Lambe in ITV/PBS’s Sanditon. Her narration of One Big Open Sky received a 2025 Audie Award nomination. Her creative focus is quality storytelling that bridges gaps and broadens representation within historical narratives. Crystal also advocates for visibility and inclusion for neurodivergent creators. Follow her on Instagram at @thatcrystalclarke.About Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share:If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd. It's produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod and Adrianna Arocho. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth with ukulele music by Bill English. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from the Big Heart Beats album.🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website: https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Welcome friends! In this Interview episode, Todd chats with legendary author and illustrator Rosemary Wells, creator of the beloved Max & Ruby series — and two very special kid interviewers, Ripley, age eight, and Journey, age eleven — who you may remember from season one.Together, they dig into what it means to write stories that make readers see themselves — and explore how the characters Max and Ruby were inspired by Rosemary's own two children! They find out what it was like too see characters go from the pages of books to the TV screen like Max and Ruby did when they were turned into a show on Nick Jr. Ripley and Journey come prepared with sharp questions about rhyming, getting unstuck, and which of her own books Rosemary loves most. Rosemary answers with warmth, humor, and more than five decades of hard-won wisdom about creativity, confidence, and why the very best thing any author can do is write stories that make a reader say, “I see myself in that."Perfect for kids ages 3 to 11 and for listening together as a family.In This Episode, Kids Will:Hear how the Max & Ruby series was born when Rosemary heard her own children talking when they thought no grown-ups were aroundDiscover why creative writing is the last gift to show up, and why that is okayLearn how getting unstuck works the same way for authors as it does for scientistsFind out what Rosemary believes are the two most important things any young writer can doBe inspired to pay attention to the ideas that go bing in their mindsGrown-Ups, You Can Extend the Learning By:Asking your child: "Which character in a book have you ever felt like?"Reading a Max & Ruby book together and talking about which sibling feels most familiar.Encouraging your child to read their own writing out loud to catch their mistakes.Talking about what it means to have someone believe in you the way Rosemary's parents believed in her as a child.About Rosemary Wells: Rosemary Wells is the author and illustrator of more than 120 books for children, including more than 40 about the beloved bunny siblings Max and Ruby. Born in New Jersey to a playwright father and a ballet dancer mother, she began drawing early and never stopped. Her books have been adapted for television by Nelvana, airing on Nick Jr. for over a decade and available now on streaming. She travels widely as a passionate advocate for literacy and visits schools to teach her Seven Steps to Writing Success. Visit her at rosemarywells.com.About Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share: If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd. It's produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod and Adrianna Arocho. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from the Big Heart Beats album.🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website: https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Welcome friends! In this special bonus Interview episode, Todd is joined by New York Times bestselling author Jonathan Stutzman and returning guest Bea, age 8, who you may remember from our Friendship Kidventure episode.Together they dig into what it really means to build stories around friendship, from the origins of Tiny T-Rex and his best friend Pointy, to why honest storytelling connects with readers of all ages. Jonathan talks about growing up loving books before he could even read, writing hundreds of songs before a good one comes through, and what it felt like to collaborate with his wife Heather Fox on Llama Destroys the World. Bea brings some of the best questions of the season, including what Jonathan's favorite book is, what his favorite hobby is, and whether sock monkeys might actually be behind all those missing socks.Perfect for kids ages 3 to 11 and for listening together as a family.In This Episode, Kids Will:Hear how a New York Times bestselling author got his start telling stories with stuffed animalsDiscover that writing lots of bad stories is part of writing a great oneLearn why friendship and always being there are at the heart of the Tiny T-Rex seriesFind out about Jonathan's upcoming books including Uh-Oh Hugo and Beware the Sock MonkeysBe inspired to tell their own stories through drawing, writing, or pretend playGrown-Ups, You Can Extend the Listening By:Asking your child: "If you wrote a book about friendship, who would the characters be?"Reading Tiny T-Rex and the Very Dark Dark or Llama Destroys the World together after listeningEncouraging your child to make up voices for their stuffed animals or toysTalking about what it means to have a friend who is always there, even when things are hardAbout Jonathan Stutzman: Jonathan Stutzman is a New York Times bestselling and award-winning author of picture books for children. He is best known for the Tiny T-Rex series, Llama Destroys the World, and Fitz and Cleo. His books have been translated into over a dozen languages and are in development for television and film. Jonathan lives in Pennsylvania with his wife, illustrator Heather Fox, and their French bulldog Hugo, who has his own book coming out soon. Find him on Instagram at @thedustdancestoo or visit jonathanstutzman.comAbout Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share: If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd. It's produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod and Adrianna Arocho. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from the Big Heart Beats album.🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website: https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Welcome friends! In this song 🎶 episode, Todd is joined by singer-songwriter Christopher Burkholder and returning guest Carmine, age seven, who you may remember from our episode about family.Together, they dig into what life as a musician really looks like, from writing hundreds of songs before releasing one, to learning harmonica on the side, to growing up as the second oldest of six kids in a homeschooled family outside Philadelphia. Christopher also shares a brand new original song on the episode called "That's What Big Brothers Are For," written especially for this episode, and the three of them hear it together for the very first time. Carmine comes with a list of questions, his brand new guitar, and an original song of his own called the "Wormy Worm Song" that he performs before signing off.Perfect for kids ages 3 to 11 and for listening together as a family.In This Episode, Kids Will:Hear a brand new original song written just for Little Kids, Big HeartsLearn how a real songwriter turns feelings and memories into musicDiscover that writing lots of bad songs is part of writing one good oneFind out why listening is the most important skill a musician can haveBe inspired to follow the fun when learning something newGrown-Ups, You Can Extend the Listening By:Asking your child: "If you wrote a song about your sibling, what would it be about?"Listening to the song together and talking about which lines feel most trueEncouraging your child to write, draw, or sing about a feeling they have had recentlyTalking about what "following the fun" looks like when your child is learning something newAbout Christopher Burkholder: Christopher Burkholder is a singer-songwriter whose music is rooted in folk, jazz, and blues. Growing up as the second oldest of six kids in a homeschooled family outside Philadelphia gave him plenty of real-life moments and real feelings to write about. He works alongside his family in their coffee business, Twin Valley Coffee, and has been writing and releasing music for over two decades. He wrote "That's What Big Brothers Are For" especially for this episode. Find him on Instagram at @christopher_burkholderAbout Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share: If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd. It's produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod and Adrianna Arocho. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from the Big Heart Beats album.🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website: https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Welcome friends! We're so glad you're joining us for a brand new Mission episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast.In this episode, Todd is joined once again by co-host Georgia, age 6, for an honest, funny, and relatable conversation about one of the trickiest parts of having a little sibling: what to do when they knock things down, rip things up, or want something completely different than you!Georgia brings her own fresh experience to the table. Her baby brother Wesley ripped apart a picture she made with her friend at art class just before this recording, and she comes in already thinking through solutions. Together, Todd and Georgia listen to stories from Rex, Brooklynn, and Lincoln, each of whom has faced their own little sibling-sized challenge, and each of whom found a way through it.Kids explore how to take a breath and choose one of three strategies: ask a grownup for help, make space for both people, or try doing things together and then separately. Along the way, Georgia reminds us that even when things get knocked down, sometimes you get to build something even better.At the end of the episode, kids listening at home get their own mission: the next time a sibling changes your plan, take a breath and try one of these three kid-tested strategies.Perfect for kids ages 3-11 and for listening together as a family.In This Episode, Kids Will:Hear real stories from kids navigating the ups and downs of having younger siblingsLearn three simple strategies for handling sibling conflict with patience and flexibilityExplore the idea that big feelings like frustration are totally valid and okayDiscover that sometimes when things get knocked down, you can build them back even betterReflect on what they love, and what is hard, about the siblings in their livesGrown-Ups, You Can Extend the Mission By:Asking your child: "What's one thing that's hard about having a sibling, and one thing that's great?"Practicing the three strategies together before a conflict happensAcknowledging that frustration with siblings is normal and worth talking aboutNoticing and naming moments when your child shows patience or flexibilitySharing your own sibling stories from when you were youngAbout Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share: If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd. It's produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod and Adrianna Arocho. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from the Big Heart Beats album.🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website: https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Welcome friends! We're so glad you're joining us for a brand new Kidventure episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast.In this episode, Todd is joined by Rex, Lincoln, and Brooklynn for a magical journey to the Land of Qook-a-lackas, where their friend Queniel the Qook-a-lacka is having a frustrating day. Every time Queniel builds a tower, little sibling Quib comes zooming through and knocks it down.Together, the kids help Queniel learn what's really going on (spoiler: Quib might just want to play), and then come up with an imaginative, kid-powered plan: a Build Zone, a Crash Zone, and a Together Zone, each with its own rules, timers, and yes, a special crash tower just for Quib. Along the way, they talk honestly about what it feels like to have a younger sibling, including the joy, the frustration, and the moments when you just want your LEGO build to survive the afternoon.This episode helps kids develop empathy, communication skills, and creative problem-solving, while reminding them that little sibs aren't always trying to cause chaos; sometimes they're still learning.Perfect for kids ages 2-11 and for listening together as a family.🎭 Special Guest Qook-a-lacka: The voice of Queniel is brought to life by Broadway actor Daniel Reichard. He originated the role of Bob Gaudio in the Tony Award-winning original Broadway cast of Jersey Boys, earning a Drama Desk Award nomination for his performance. His other credits include Radiant Baby at The Public Theater, the title role in New York City Opera's Candide, and over 800 concerts worldwide with The Midtown Men, the vocal group he co-founded with his Jersey Boys castmates.In This Episode, Kids Will:Travel to the Land of Qook-a-lackas in a cozy laundry basketHelp Queniel solve a sibling conflict with creative thinkingLearn how to set clear boundaries with younger sibsPractice using words when things go wrongDiscover that understanding why someone acts the way they do can change everythingGrown-Ups, You Can Extend the Kidventure By:Talking about a time a sibling or friend accidentally upset them and what helpedPracticing kind, clear phrases before conflicts happenNoticing and naming what younger siblings might be trying to communicateCelebrating your child when they show patience with a younger siblingAbout Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share:If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share. It helps other families discover LKBH.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd. It's produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod and Adrianna Arocho. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth with ukulele music by Bill English. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from The Big Heart Beats album.🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website: https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Welcome friends! In this Interview episode, Todd is joined by farmer Susan Mitchell, owner of Cloverleigh Farm in Connecticut, and returning guest Avery, age six, who you may remember from our episode at the beginning of April called "Can Kids Help Heal the Land?"Together they dig into what farm life is really like, from growing vegetables in a greenhouse in the spring to caring for beef cattle, pigs, chickens, and turkeys yearround. Susan talks about farming in all weather, losing plants in the freeze of 2026, donating produce to a local soup kitchen, and what it means to build a true community around food. Avery brings some of the best questions of the season, including whether it is possible to give vegetables to homeless people and whether schools can take field trips to the farm.The podcast is perfect for kids ages 3 to 11 and for listening together as a family.In This Episode, Kids Will:Hear what a real working farm looks like from someone who built oneDiscover that farming is hard, hopeful, and deeply connected to communityLearn how bees, soil, seasons, and care are all part of where our food comes fromFind out how to look for a farm near where they liveBe inspired to think differently the next time they see produce at the grocery storeGrown-Ups, You Can Extend the Listening By:Asking your child: "Where do you think the food in our kitchen came from?"Looking up a local CSA or farm stand in your areaTalking about what it means to support small businesses in your communityEncouraging your child to try a vegetable straight from a garden or farm standAbout Susan Mitchell: Susan Mitchell started her journey into agriculture as a public high school teacher in New York State, where she grew food with her students in the school's garden. She quickly fell in love with the practice and left teaching to apprentice on a farm in the Hudson Valley, then managed farms throughout Connecticut before finding her own property in Columbia, CT. She is also one of the founding members and current Steering Committee member of the New Connecticut Farmer Alliance, a farmer-led statewide network of new farmers. Learn more at cloverleighfarm.com.About Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share:If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd. It's produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod and Adrianna Arocho. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from The Big Heart Beats Album.🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website: https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Welcome friends! It's time for a Little Kids Big Hearts Storytime. This month's story comes from the Land of Qook-a-lackas and is all about what happens when you slow down just enough to notice what matters.In this story, we meet Quince, a gentle Qook-a-leekie who loves the forest and moves through it slowly, noticing everything. Quince spots something others have missed: the Quilips are leaning, the Quoodle keeps dropping its twig, and the forest feels a little off. One small thing at a time, Quince begins to help. Not in a big way or a loud way, but in a small, steady, slow way. And slowly, others start to notice too.Todd and Rose, age eight, read the story together and share the magic of a world where paying close attention is its own kind of superpower.Perfect for kids ages 3 to 11 and for listening together as a family.In This Episode, Kids Will:Visit the Land of Qook-a-lackas and meet some wonderful new charactersDiscover that slowing down helps us notice things that others missLearn that small, quiet actions can create real and meaningful changeExplore what it means to care for the world around you in your own small wayBe reminded that the best things usually start smallGrown-Ups, You Can Extend the Listening By:Going on a slow walk with your child and asking: "What do you notice that you usually miss?"Talking about one small thing your family could do to care for your neighborhood or environmentAsking your child: "Is there something or someone you have noticed lately that needed a little help?"Celebrating the quiet, steady helpers in your child's lifeAbout Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share: If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd. It's produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod and Adrianna Arocho. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from the Big Heart Beats album🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website: https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Welcome friends! It's time for a Little Kids Big Hearts Mission, where kids help kids make the world a little kinder, a little braver, and a little better.In this episode, Todd is joined by his co-host Georgia, who is now 6️⃣ years old and full of big ideas. Together they explore what it means to take care of our environment, from picking up trash and planting seeds, to recycling, reducing pollution, and even raising money for charity. Georgia shares her genius "making things bins," her stop pollution sign, her carrot planting project, and her plans for a summer perfume and face mask shop to raise money for environmental causes.Along the way, they hear from Rose and Avery about beach cleanups, gardens, and why caring for the Earth matters. Then Todd and Georgia deliver this week's mission together.The mission: Choose one small way to help the Earth 🌎. Pick up trash 🗑️, turn off lights 💡, plant something 🌱, save water 💧, or find a way to reuse ♻️ something you already have.Perfect for kids ages 3 to 11 and for listening together as a family.In This Episode, Kids Will:Explore what the environment is and why it mattersHear real ideas from kids about how they help take care of the planetDiscover that small actions, done by lots of kids, can make a big differenceGet inspired to try their own version of Georgia's "making things bin"Receive this week's mission and think about which step to take firstGrown-Ups, You Can Extend the Mission By:Asking your child: "What is one small thing you could do this week to help the Earth?"Setting up a "making things bin" at home with boxes, scraps, and craft suppliesGoing on a walk and picking up litter togetherTalking about where trash goes and why it matters for animals and oceansCelebrating whatever small step your child decides to takeAbout Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share: If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd. It's produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod and Adrianna Arocho. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from The Big Heart Beats Album.🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website: https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Welcome friends! In this Kidventure episode, Todd is joined by Avery (age 6, Dallas TX), Rose (age 8, Alameda County CA), and Nicholas (almost 7, Columbia CT). Together they explore the environment and what worries them about the earth, before floating off on dandelion parachutes to the magical Land of Qook-a-lackas, where something feels very wrong.Their friend Qwade needs their help. The gummy bears are tired, the Quilips have been over-picked, the bees are struggling, and the weather is all mixed up. The kids become nature detectives, piecing together clues and coming up with thoughtful ideas about what it means to care for a living, breathing world. Qwade is brought to life by award-winning Broadway actor Wade McCollum.Perfect for kids ages 2 to 11 and for listening together as a family.In This Episode, Kids Will:Travel to the Land of Qook-a-lackas and help solve an environmental mysteryExplore the connection between bees, flowers, weather, and the natural worldDiscover that caring for the environment starts with small, meaningful choicesLearn that it is okay to sit with big feelings without having all the answersMake a Qook-a-lacka promise to care for the earth in their own wayGrown-Ups, You Can Extend the Listening By:Asking: "What is one small thing you could do today to help the earth?"Going on a nature walk and looking for signs that plants and animals are connectedEncouraging your child to reuse something before throwing it awayReminding your child that practice makes progress and every effort matters🎭 Special Guest Qook-a-lacka: Wade McCollum is a Broadway actor, filmmaker, singer, composer, writer, director, and co-founder of a neuroscience/music startup. Broadway credits include: Water for Elephants and Floyd Collins. Screen credits include: The Knick, FBI: Most Wanted, and Madame Secretary. Learn more at https//www.wadesong.com.About Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share: If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd. It's  produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod and Adrianna Arocho. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth with ukulele music by Bill English. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from The Big Heart Beats Album.🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website: https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Welcome friends! We're so glad you're joining us for a brand new episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast.This one is extra special. Todd is joined by two people who have been best friends since the first grade: his mom, Claudia, and her childhood best friend, Vicky. They have been friends for nearly seven decades, and the love and laughter between them is something you can feel in every single word. Also joining us is Zuri, returning co-host and seven-year-old friendship expert, who brings her own big questions and big heart to the conversation.Together, they travel all the way back to first grade in Texas, where two six-year-olds sat down next to each other and just clicked. From basketball and cheerleading to navigating distance, family changes, and life's harder chapters, Claudia and Vicky show us what it looks like when a friendship truly stands the test of time. And Zuri, who has secret handshakes with most of her friends, reminds us that the magic of close friendship starts young and matters at every age.This episode is a warm, funny, genuine conversation about what it means to choose someone again and again, through laughter, distance, and all of life's changes.Perfect for kids ages 3 to 11 and for listening together as a family.In this episode, kids will: Hear the real story of a friendship that has lasted nearly 70 years and countingDiscover that friendship isn't about never disagreeing. It's about choosing each other again and againExplore how staying connected looks different at different stages of lifeLaugh along with two lifelong best friends who still make each other giggleReflect on the friendships in their own lives and what makes them specialGrown-ups, extend the learning by:Asking your child: "What do you think makes a friendship last a really long time?"Sharing a story about one of your own long-time friends with your childTalking about what it feels like to have someone who is always in your cornerEncouraging your child to think about the friends they have now and what they love about themAsking: "Is there a friend you want to make sure you stay close to as you grow up?"About Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share: If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd. It's produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod and Adrianna Arocho. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from The Big Heart Beat’s Album.🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website: https://playsparkler.org/podcast

We're so glad you're joining us for a brand new episode. In this episode, Todd is joined by a Anthony, 8, for a dance-filled conversation. Together, they listen and talk about four songs from the new kids' album We're Friends Now by award-winning children's musicians Benjamin Weiner & Suzi Shelton. As he listens, Anthony shares what he loves doing with friends, from bike rides and sleepovers to visits to Dave & Buster's. He opens up about the kind of treehouse he'd design (with a power extender, obviously). He also says he makes his own music, loves to sing, and would love to make an album all about bike riding.Songs Featured from We're Friends Now by Suzi Shelton & Benjamin Weiner:We Must Be FriendsUp Down All AroundUp in Our TreehouseRoom for You at the TablePerfect for kids ages 2 to 11 and for listening together as a family.In This Episode, Kids Will:Listen to new songs about friendshipDiscover that differences make friendships special!Explore how slowing down can help us notice our friends!Grown-Ups, You Can Extend the Listening By:Asking your child: "What have your friends taught you?"Dancing together to the songsTalking about a meal your family has shared with friendsAbout Benjamin: Benjamin Weiner is an educator and musician whose work spans Nickelodeon, PBS, and Spin Master. Benjamin has written for shows including Dora and preschool podcasts — including LKBH! — and brings warmth, wit, and a deep love of childhood to everything he creates. Learn more at benjaminweiner.com.About Suzi: Suzi Shelton is an award-winning singer and songwriter. Trained as a dancer, she never imagined she'd become a kids' musician, but now can't imagine doing anything else. Suzi and her band have performed at The White House, Symphony Space, BAM, and the Lincoln Center Tree Lighting Ceremony. Her music celebrates diversity, inclusion, and kindness, and her live-stream show Sing with Suzi has been watched in more than 70 countries. Learn more at suzishelton.com.About the Album: We're Friends Now features 11 folk, indie, and pop-inspired songs written and performed by Suzi and Benjamin, and produced by GRAMMY-winning Dean Jones. Listen: Apple Music https://music.apple.com/us/album/were-friends-now/1875727916Spotify https://open.spotify.com/album/77Oj3I8EpxrVMVoor2346g About Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share:Please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover us:🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:LKBH is hosted by Todd Loyd. It's produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod and Adrianna Arocho. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else.” 

Welcome friends! We're so glad you're joining us for a brand new Mission episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast.In this episode, Todd is joined by his friend and mission co-host Georgia (who also happens to be turning six!) for a warm and joyful conversation all about friendship. Together, they check in with kids Bea, Charles, and Anthony to hear how they noticed someone who was feeling left out, and chose one small, brave act of kindness to help that person feel seen.Along the way, Georgia shares her own friendship stories, including the time she and a friend helped a classmate at the block station, and reveals her superhero alter ego: Friendship Girl, whose power is making friends and seeing the amazing things that happen because of them.Kids explore what it means to be a true friend, what it looks like to be an "upstander," and why noticing someone who feels alone is already a powerful act of kindness. This episode helps children build empathy, courage, and confidence as they discover that you don't have to fix someone's feelings. Sometimes you just have to let them know they're seen.At the end of the episode, kids listening at home are invited to try their own Be a Friend and Fight Loneliness With Kindness Mission: (1) look around, (2) spot someone who might need a friend, and (3) find one small way to show you care.Perfect for kids ages 2–11 and for listening together as a family.In This Episode, Kids Will:Hear real stories of kids who noticed someone feeling left out and chose to helpLearn what it means to be an "upstander" in their school and communityExplore how friendship can look loud and brave OR quiet and gentleDiscover that even tiny acts of kindness can make someone feel seen and includedReflect on the magic of friendship and why it makes everything betterGrown-Ups, You Can Extend the Mission By:Asking your child: "Did you notice anyone who might have needed a friend today?"Brainstorming one small thing your family can do to include someone this week.Talking about what it feels like to be noticed by someone who cares.Celebrating the effort to notice even when kids aren't sure what to do next.Encouraging your child to think about their own "superhero friendship power."About Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share:If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd. It's produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod and Adrianna Arocho. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from The Big Heart Beats album.🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website: https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Welcome friends! We're so glad you're joining us for another Kidventure on the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast!Today, Todd is joined by three warm, thoughtful kids, Charles (9), Bea (8), and Anthony (8), for a heartfelt conversation about one of the most important parts of childhood (and life!): friendship.Together, they explore how friendships begin — from bus rides and Roblox to vet clinics and hospital hallways. They share what it feels like when a friendship clicks, and what it feels like when something shifts. They talk about feeling left out, working through conflict, and the courage it takes to talk about it.Then, the kids close their eyes and shimmer into the Land of Qook-a-lackas, where they meet Quorra, a Qook-a-leekie played by Mia Hutchinson-Shaw, whose BFF Quenna has been spending time with a new group withouth Quorra. Quorra's sparkles are dimming, Quorra's purple is fading to gray, and Quorra doesn't know what to do next.The kids help Quorra find the words to share their feelings, the courage to jump in and play, and the patience to wait until Quenna is ready to listen.This Kidventure supports social and emotional learning by encouraging empathy, expression, conflict resolution, and the understanding that friendships naturally shift and grow.Perfect for kids ages 2-11, and for listening together as a family.IN THIS EPISODE, KIDS WILL:Explore how friendships begin and how they can change over timeLearn that feeling left out is normal and that feelings deserve to be namedPractice finding brave, kind words for necessary conversationsUnderstand that friends sometimes need space, and that's okay, tooGROWN-UPS, YOU CAN EXTEND THE CONVERSATION BY ASKING:How did you become friends?Has a friendship ever felt different or tricky? What did you feel? What did you say or do?What's a brave thing you could say if you ever felt left out?🎭 Special Guest Qook-a-lacka: Mia Hutchinson-Shaw has narrated 100+ audiobooks and voiced stories featured as New York Times, USA Today, and Indie Booksellers Bestsellers. She is a Booklist Editors' Choice Award winner and has also been recognized by the School Library Journal, Apple Books Must Listen, BookRiot, Vulture, and Audiofile. She also has a long list of film and TV credits!About Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share:If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd. It's produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod and Adrianna Arocho. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth with ukulele music by Bill English. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from The Big Heart Beats album.🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website: https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Welcome friends! We’re so glad you’re joining us for this special interview episode of Little Kids, Big Hearts.Today host Todd Loyd is joined by his kid friend Keri and award winning author Matt de la Peña to explore the idea of community: what it means, how it shapes us, and how it shows up in stories and everyday life. Together they dive into Matt’s creative process and the themes that unite his books with children’s experiences of neighborhood, belonging, imagination, and care.Matt talks about how his own upbringing in a working-class community influenced his writing, why community plays a central role in stories like Last Stop on Market Street, and how children’s perspectives can reveal wisdom about the world around them. Keri asks thoughtful questions about family relationships, walking alongside others, and how everyday experiences can become powerful stories.This episode supports social and emotional learning by helping kids notice the people, places, and relationships that make up their communities and understand how stories help us see ourselves and others with empathy and curiosity.Perfect for kids ages 3–11 and for listening together as a family.In This Episode, Kids Will:Hear how an acclaimed author thinks about community and belongingLearn that stories can help us understand others’ experiencesPractice curiosity and empathy through conversationGrown-Ups, Extend the Conversation By:Talking about stories you’ve read togetherEncouraging kids to describe kind things that they have done for others or others have done for themReflecting together on how family and neighborhood help shape who we areAbout Our Guest:📚 Matt de la Peña is a New York Times bestselling, Newbery Medal-winning author of picture books and novels for young readers. He won the 2016 Newbery Medal for Last Stop on Market Street and has written award-winning books including Carmela Full of Wishes, Love, Milo Imagines the World, and The Perfect Place. Matt’s writing celebrates diverse communities, everyday kindness, and the beauty of ordinary life. He received his MFA in creative writing from San Diego State University and his BA from the University of the Pacific. About Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share:If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd and produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod and Adrianna Arocho. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from The Big Heart Beat’s Album.🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website: https://playsparkler.org/podcast

In this magical stortime episode of Little Kids, Big Hearts, listeners travel to the Land of Qook-a-lakas for a fun, imaginative fictional story about community and belonging. The story is told by LKBH host Todd Loyd, along with two kid helpers: Rose and Leo!High above the town, in a cozy place called Loodle Loop, lives a small Qook-a-leekie named Quincy and their grand Qook-a-laka, Quinella. While the town below gathers to bake, sing, and share ideas, Quincy begins to wonder if anyone even knows they’re there.When Quincy creates a glowing path made of pebbles, moss, and softly chiming bells, something beautiful happens. What starts as a quiet act of creativity becomes a powerful invitation, reminding everyone that community grows when we share what makes us special.This calming story gently supports social and emotional learning by exploring connection, courage, and the idea that everyone belongs.Perfect for bedtime, quiet moments, and listening together as a family.In This Episode, Kids Will...Learn what community means and how it’s builtExplore how creativity can connect peopleUnderstand that feeling alone doesn’t mean being forgottenDiscover the power of sharing their unique lightFeatured Characters (played by Todd, Rose, and Leo):Quincy, a thoughtful Qook-a-leekieQuinella, their loving grand Qook-a-lakaQuimby the Glow WormThe Qook-a-lakas and Qook-a-leekies of the townPerfect for...Kids ages 2–8Bedtime and story time routinesFamilies exploring kindness, belonging, and togethernessAbout Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share: If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd. Today's fictional story is told by Todd, along with two kid helpers: Rose and Leo!Produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod and Adrianna Arocho. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from the Big Heart Beats album.🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website for episode resources and more: https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Welcome friends! We’re so glad you’re joining us for a brand new Mission episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast.In this episode, Todd is joined by his friend and new mission co-host Georgia for a thoughtful and heartwarming conversation about helping others and building community. Together, they check in with kids Gabe, Zuri, and Credence to hear how they completed their community missions through simple, meaningful acts like making cards, helping classmates, and noticing when someone needs kindness.Kids explore what it feels like to give and receive kindness, take responsibility, and show care in everyday moments. This episode encourages empathy, flexibility, and confidence as children learn that even small actions can make a big difference.At the end of the episode, kids listening at home are invited to go on their own community builder mission by helping someone, including a friend, or creating something kind for another person.Perfect for kids ages 2–11 and for listening together as a family.In This Episode, Kids Will:Hear real examples of kids helping others in their communityExplore how kindness can show up in small, everyday waysPractice empathy, flexibility, and responsibilityReflect on how it feels to give and receive careGrown-Ups, You Can Extend the Mission By:Asking your child who they helped or noticed todayBrainstorming one small, kind action your family can try this weekNoticing and naming how kindness feels in the body and heartEncouraging effort and thoughtfulness over “doing it perfectly”About Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share:If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd.Produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod and Adrianna Arocho. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from the Big Heart Beats Album.🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website:https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Welcome friends! We’re so glad you’re joining us for another Kidventure on the Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast.Today, Todd is joined by three thoughtful kids, Credence (6), Zuri (7), and Gabe (8), for a warm and curious conversation about community and the many ways kids are already part of communities. Together, they explore what community means, from families and schools to neighborhoods, teams, and places of worship. They discuss how neighbors welcome one another, how teachers and grown-ups help when things feel hard, and how volunteering and helping others can make a difference.Then, the kids close their eyes and travel on a butterfly bus to the Land of Qook-a-lackas, where they meet Quandy, a Qook-a-lacka whose community is facing a BIG problem. A whirlwind has scattered supplies all over the Land just before the big bright block party, leaving Quandy feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to bring everyone together With creativity, teamwork, and big-hearted ideas, the kids help transform piles of random objects into games, decorations, music, and art. Together, they discover that community isn’t about perfection; it's about sharing ideas, helping one another, and building something meaningful together.Perfect for kids aged 2–11, and for listening together as a family.IN THIS EPISODE, KIDS WILL:Explore what community means in age-appropriate waysLearn how helping others strengthens connection and belongingDiscover that everyone can contribute to their communityUse imagination to turn challenges into opportunitiesGROWN-UPS, YOU CAN EXTEND THE CONVERSATION BY ASKING:What communities are you a part of?Who helps you when things feel hard?How can we help others in our community, even in small ways?🎭 Special Guest Qook-a-lacka: Mandy Gonzalez plays the role of Quandy. Mandy is an award-winning Broadway actress, singer, songwriter, and author. Mandy starred in Hamilton as Angelica Schuyler, originated Nina Rosario in In the Heights, starred as Elphaba in Wicked, performed at Carnegie Hall with the New York Pops, and is the author of the Fearless book series.About Little Kids, Big Hearts: Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share: If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd. It's produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod and Adrianna Arocho. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from the Big Heart Beats Album.🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website: https://playsparkler.org/podcast 

Welcome friends! We’re so glad you’re here for this heart-filled episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast.This week, Todd is joined by returning kid guest Carmine and special guest Jessica Love, the award-winning author and illustrator of Julián Is a Mermaid and A Bed of Stars. Together, they explore creativity, imagination, and the many ways family members show love and support for each other.Jessica shares the inspiration behind Julián Is a Mermaid, including how pictures can tell powerful stories with very few words and why Julián’s relationship with his abuela (his grandma) is at the heart of the book. Carmine asks thoughtful questions about being an author, storytelling, and pretending, leading to joyful conversations about mermaids, kitty cats, and chicken nuggets.The conversation then turns to A Bed of Stars, a story about a child and parent camping together in the desert and wondering about the vast universe. Jessica talks about creating the book while pregnant with her son and discusses how stories can help kids feel less small in a big world.This episode celebrates self-expression, imagination, and the many ways families help children feel safe, loved, and understood. Perfect for kids ages 2–11 and for listening together as a family.In This Episode, Kids Will:Learn how stories and pictures work together to share big ideasExplore what family love and support can look likePractice curiosity by asking thoughtful questionsFeel encouraged to draw, imagine, and create their own storiesGrown-Ups, You Can Extend the Conversation By Asking:What stories or pictures make you feel safe and understood?Who helps you feel loved when you want to be yourself?What do you like to imagine when you’re falling asleep?About Our Guest:Jessica Love is an author, illustrator, and theater artist best known for Julián Is a Mermaid, which received the Stonewall Book Award and international acclaim. She is also the author of Julián at the Wedding and A Bed of Stars. A feature-length animated adaptation of Julián Is a Mermaid is currently in development with Cartoon Saloon. About Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share:If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd.Produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod.Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from the Big Heart Beats album.🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website for episode resources:https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Welcome friends! This month on the Little Kids, Big Hearts 💕  podcast, we’ve been exploring the theme of family and all the ways families help us feel safe, loved, and strong.In this special song and conversation episode, Todd is joined by longtime collaborator, educator, and composer Benjamin Weiner. Together, they revisit what kids shared in our family Kidventure episode — "Who's in My Family?" — about who is in their family, what they do together, and what they learn from their family.Benjamin reflects on listening closely to kids’ words and transforming their ideas, rhythms, and feelings into music. He shares how children’s language naturally lends itself to songwriting and how family memories and storytelling shaped his own creative path.The episode culminates in the debut of I’ve Got My Family, an original song inspired directly by the voices of kids on the podcast. The song celebrates families of all shapes and sizes and reminds listeners that love, care, and connection are what truly make a family.This episode supports social and emotional learning by affirming belonging, inclusion, and safety, while encouraging kids to reflect on the people who make up their own families. Perfect for kids ages 2–11 and for listening together as a family.In This Episode, Kids Will:Hear their words transformed into musicLearn that families can look many different waysReflect on traditions, routines, and shared momentsFeel affirmed that their family is “just right”Grown-Ups, You Can Extend the Conversation By Asking:Who are the people that make up our family?What are some things we love doing together?What helps our family feel safe and connected?About Our Guest:Benjamin Weiner is a composer, educator, and longtime collaborator on Little Kids, Big Hearts. A former New York City school teacher, Benjamin creates music inspired directly by children’s voices, ideas, and lived experiences, transforming everyday moments into songs that support connection and emotional growth.About Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.Subscribe, Rate, and Share:If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd and produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod, also at Sparkler.Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth, with original music by Bill English.Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the song “Like Nobody Else” from the Big Heart Beats album.🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website:https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Welcome friends! We’re so glad you’re joining us for another Season 5 episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast.In this Mission episode, Todd is joined by our friend Georgia, 5, to continue exploring this month’s theme: FAMILIES!Inspired by our Kidventure to the Land of Qook-a-lakas, kid listeners are invited to go on a special mission: Creating their own family quilt square. Together, Todd and Georgia talk about the people, traditions, foods, adventures, and creative moments that make families unique.Georgia shares her own quilt square, featuring adventures and crafting, and explains how art, imagination, and time together help her family feel connected. We also hear from Carmine, who shares how music, friends, and pizza represent his family. This episode encourages kids to reflect on love, belonging, and everyday routines — and consider creating their own family quilt squares — to grow the Little Kids, Big Hearts family quilt. Every family looks different and in every family love matters!The podcast is perfect for kids aged 2–11, and designed to be enjoyed together with a grown-up.THIS WEEK’S MISSION:Kids are invited to create their own family quilt square by drawing a square and adding about three things that make their family special. These can include people, pets, foods, games, traditions, or anything that shows love and care.Once you've created your family's quilt square, grown-ups can send a picture to us at [email protected] (or on social media). We love seeing your creativity and growing our Little Kids, Big Hearts Family Quilt.IN THIS EPISODE, KIDS WILL:Reflect on what makes their family specialPractice expressing feelings through art and storytellingCelebrate different family structures and traditionsBuild empathy by seeing how other families share loveTake part in a creative, real-world missionGROWN-UPS, YOU CAN EXTEND THE CONVERSATION BY ASKING:What are three things that make our family special to you?What activities help you feel most connected to our family?How do different families show love in different ways?ABOUT LITTLE KIDS, BIG HEARTS:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through imaginative Kidventures, missions, stories, and songs, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and caring for others.SUBSCRIBE, RATE, AND SHARE:If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share! It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts.🎧 Find us on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts🎵 Follow us on TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts📸 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast📘 Find us on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcast CREDITS:Little Kids, Big Hearts is hosted by Todd Loyd. Georgia, 5, co-hosted today's epsiode! It's produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod, also at Sparkler. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth, with original music by Bill English. Special thanks to Noggin for their support and the use of the song “Like Nobody Else” from Big Heart Beats.Learn more about the podcast at: https://www.playsparkler.org/podcast

Welcome friends! We’re so glad you’re joining us for the Season 5 premiere of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast!In this special Kidventure episode, Todd is joined by three thoughtful kids, Georgia, Jaden, and Carmine, for a warm, meaningful conversation about families and what makes them special.Together, they talk about family traditions, bedtime routines, games, meals, and the everyday moments that build love and belonging.Then, the kids close their eyes and travel as tiny imaginary particles to the Land of Qook-a-lakas, where they meet Quilliam, a Qook-a-laka who worries that their family is “just too teeny-weeny” to make a Dream Fest quilt square. With creativity, empathy, and big hearts, the kids help Quilliam discover that families of every size create meaningful memories and that love is what matters most.This Kidventure episode of Little Kids, Big Hearts supports social and emotional learning by encouraging empathy, perspective-taking, emotional expression, and inclusion, while celebrating the idea that families come in all shapes and sizes. Perfect for kids ages 3–11 and for listening together as a family.About Our Guest Star:The role of Quilliam in this episode is played by Ryann Redmond, an actress and singer. Ryann originated Bridget in Bring It On: The Musical, appeared in the original cast of If/Then, performed in Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville, and made history as the first female Olaf in Frozen on Broadway.In This Episode, Kids Will:Explore different family structures in an inclusive, age-appropriate wayPractice empathy through conversation and imaginationLearn that love, care, and connection define “family”Use creative storytelling to solve a problem in the Land of Qook-a-lakasReflect on routines and traditions that build belongingGrown-Ups, Extend the Conversation By Asking:Who is part of our family? What are some special things we like to do together as a family? Do we have any traditions? How are our family routines similar or different from our friends' routines? What helps you feel safe, loved, and included at home?What would YOU include on your quilt square? Find educator resources to keep the learning going at:https://playsparkler.org/familyepisode/About Little Kids, Big Hearts:Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the discussion through Kidventures, stories, songs, missions, and conversations!Subscribe, Rate, and Share:If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover Little Kids, Big Hearts!🎧 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@littlekidsbighearts🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@littlekidsbighearts📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little_kids_big_hearts_podcast📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcastCredits:Hosted by Todd Loyd. Produced by Julia Levy at Sparkler Learning, with support from Meaghan Penrod. Sound design and mixing by Ryan Marth, with original music by Bill English.Special thanks to Noggin for their support and use of “Like Nobody Else” from the Big Heart Beats album.Learn more and find episode resources at:https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Season 5 of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast is coming on Friday, Jan. 9 — so rev up your imagination, and get ready to journey with us to the Land of Qook-a-lackas to explore big feelings and solve problems with our Qook-a-lacka friends. If you're new to the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast, you should know that the Land of Qook-a-lackas is a special place where children go to share their feelings, but not everyone can see the Qook-a-lackas or little Qook-a-leekies who live there. Some have fur, spikes, scales, and different colors — and they look different to all children. Get ready to imagine and grow big hearts with us! 💛

It's our eighth and final week of Little Kids, Big Hearts @ Camp Sparkler, and we're focused on our hopes and dreams: What are we looking forward to as the new school year approaches? What do we want to learn? What are we excited to experience? 💚 First, Todd shares some clips from an episode called "Hopes & Dreams With Jolly Abraham." Three kids — Levi, Christine, and Ariel — share some of the amazing things they'd learned in the last year ... and what they're hoping and dreaming for the year ahead .💚 Then Todd and the kids journey to the Land of Qook-a-lackas where they visit with  Qook-a-lacka friend played by Jolly Abraham. They join in the Qook-a-lacka tradition of Moon Day, where they help to “send off” the old moon and “welcome” the new moon by sharing hopes and dreams. "I hope and dream for me and my brothers to get along," says Ariel. What are YOU hoping and dreaming? This summer, Camp Sparkler is exploring eight different themes related to social and emotional learning (SEL). Learn more about Camp Sparkler and play along throughout the summer with a weekly lineup of off-screen play activities and learning extensions on your Sparkler app: https://playsparkler.org/campsparkler.Thank you to Benjamin Weiner, who wrote and performed the song “Growin’ Up This Summer," which you hear in this video. Thank you to Ryan Marth — our guru of sound!Learn more about the podcast or listen to whole episodes on our web page:  https://playsparkler.org/podcast. Learn more about Camp Sparkler online at https://playsparkler.org/campsparkler2025/You can play along in your Sparkler mobile app! It's free, it's fun, it's learning! :)

Week 7 of Little Kids, Big Hearts @ Camp Sparkler is focused on feelings. We all have them — and we all can learn to identify them and manage them! Feelings are something we discuss a lot on our podcast, Little Kids, Big Hearts. In honor of this week of camp, Todd shares clips from two podcast episodes: 💚 First, Todd shares a clip from an episode called "Feeling Angry," in which Lauren, Esther, and Sam share what musical instrument their anger reminds them of. (Listen to the whole episode and the bonus interview to hear the voice of Tony Winning actress Marjan Neshat, who plays the role of a very ANGRY qook-a-lacka: https://playsparkler.org/little-kids-big-hearts-feeling-angry/) 💚 Then, Todd shares a clip from another episode called "What Can You Do With Big Feelings?" in which Anaya, Eleanor, Raffaele, and Wilder share where they FEEL their feelings. At the end of the episode you can dance your feelings with a special song called Dance Your Feelings: https://playsparkler.org/what-can-you-do-with-big-feelings/ This summer, Camp Sparkler is exploring eight different themes related to social and emotional learning (SEL). Learn more about Camp Sparkler and play along throughout the summer with a weekly lineup of off-screen play activities and learning extensions on your Sparkler app: https://playsparkler.org/campsparkler.Thank you to Benjamin Weiner, who wrote and performed the song “Growin’ Up This Summer," which you hear in this video. Thank you to Ryan Marth — our guru of sound!Learn more about the podcast or listen to whole episodes on our web page:  https://playsparkler.org/podcast. Learn more about Camp Sparkler online at https://playsparkler.org/campsparkler2025/You can play along in your Sparkler mobile app! It's free, it's fun, it's learning! :)

It’s week 6 of our summer learning program: Little Kids, Big Hearts @ Camp Sparkler, and we're back for another week of fun and learning. This week, we're focused on helping others! Podcast host/lead camp counselor, Todd Loyd, introduces the big idea and shares some clips from our episode, "How to Help." On the episode, three kids — Zohaib, Orion, and Kaitlin — shared their experiences and big ideas related to helping others in their communities. What are some ways YOU and your family can help others? And Todd needs some help, too, naming his plant! Share your ideas with us on instagram @little_kids_big_hearts_podcast. Thank you to Benjamin Weiner, who wrote and performed the song “Growin’ Up This Summer," which you hear in this video.Thank you to Ryan Marth — our guru of sound!Learn more about the podcast or listen to the whole episode here: https://playsparkler.org/podcast. Learn more about Camp Sparkler online at https://playsparkler.org/campsparkler. You can play along in your Sparkler mobile app! It's free, it's fun, it's learning! :)You can also visit us on our YouTube channel to see a video of the epiosde: https://www.youtube.com/@LittleKidsBigHearts

Week 5 of Camp Sparkler is focused on using our imaginations. The host of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast and head counselor at Camp Sparkler, Todd Loyd, introduces the idea and shares some clips from a podcast episode focused on calming down — "Imagination Time." In the episode, three little kids with big imaginations, Shaelan, Sameia and Hunter, discuss the power of imagination with Todd, and then they journey together to the Land of Qook-a-lackas at the invitation of the Qook-a-lacka Mayor, who needs help imagining a new playground and new snacks for the Qook-a-leekies. The role of the Mayor is played by Nadiyah Dorsey, a veteran of stage and screen, who also sings the original song “You Can Use Your Imagination” that you hear in the episode. (The song was written by Benjamin Weiner, a NYC-based writer, composer, and educator.) This summer, Camp Sparkler is exploring eight different themes related to social and emotional learning (SEL). Learn more about Camp Sparkler and play along throughout the summer with a weekly lineup of off-screen play activities and learning extensions on your Sparkler app: https://playsparkler.org/campsparkler.Thank you to Benjamin Weiner, who wrote and performed the song “Growin’ Up This Summer," which you hear in this video. Thank you to Ryan Marth — our guru of sound!Learn more about the podcast or listen to the whole episode here: https://playsparkler.org/little-kids-big-hearts-imagination-time. Learn more about Camp Sparkler online at https://playsparkler.org/campsparkler. You can play along in your Sparkler mobile app! It's free, it's fun, it's learning! :)

Week 4 of Camp Sparkler is focused on GRATITUDE — feelings of thankfulness and appreciation for the positive people, things, and experiences in your life. Gratitude can be a big, abstract idea for most young children — but it is important! Feeling grateful can help to foster emotional well-being and resilience. Research shows that practicing gratitude can reduce stress and anxiety, improve relationships, and promote a sense of belonging.The host of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast and head counselor at Camp Sparkler, Todd Loyd, introduces the idea and shares some clips from a podcast episode focused on calming down — "Gratitude PowerUp with Lauren Blumenfeld."In this episode, three children (Charlie, Roxy, and Everly) discuss what gratitude means and help a Qook-a-lacka friend, Kwi-loh (played by Lauren Blumenfeld), power up the Gratitude Power Plant in the Land of Qook-a-lackas.This summer, Camp Sparkler is exploring eight different themes related to social and emotional learning (SEL). Learn more about Camp Sparkler and play along throughout the summer with a weekly lineup of off-screen play activities and learning extensions on your Sparkler app: https://playsparkler.org/campsparkler.Thank you to Benjamin Weiner, who wrote and performed the song “Growin’ Up This Summer," which you hear in this video. Thank you to Ryan Marth — our guru of sound!Learn more about the podcast or listen to the whole episode here: https://playsparkler.org/gratitude-powerup-with-lauren-blumenfeld/. You can also hear the original song "I'm Grateful" inspired by the episode. You can play along in your Sparkler mobile app! It's free, it's fun, it's learning! :)

Week 3 of Camp Sparkler is focused on CALMING DOWN — strategies people can use to regulate their big feelings. The host of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast, Todd Loyd, introduces the idea and shares some clips from a podcast episode focused on calming down — "The Key to Calming Down." In the episode, three kids (Charlie, Katrina, and Sienna) join Todd to share tips and tricks they use to calm down — which come in handy when they’re experiencing big feelings. The kids and Todd then take a journey to the Land of Qook-a-lakcas to visit Todd’s friend Quinlan who invited the group to become the first humans ever to attend Camp Quinder-Calm! The role of Quinlan is played by Rebecca Naomi Jones. The original song, “I Have the Key,” which Quinlan shares with the children in the Land of Qook-a-lackas, was composed by Benjamin Weiner, a NYC-based writer, composer, and educator. This summer, Camp Sparkler is exploring eight different themes related to social and emotional learning (SEL). Learn more about Camp Sparkler and play along throughout the summer with a weekly lineup of off-screen play activities and learning extensions on your Sparkler app: https://playsparkler.org/campsparkler.Thank you to Benjamin Weiner, who wrote and performed the song “Growin’ Up This Summer," which you hear in this video. Thank you to Ryan Marth — our guru of sound!Learn more about the podcast or listen to the whole episode here: https://playsparkler.org/little-kids-big-hearts-self-regulation/. Learn more about Camp Sparkler online at https://playsparkler.org/campsparkler2025/You can play along in your Sparkler mobile app! It's free, it's fun, it's learning! :)

This summer, Little Kids, Big Hearts is teaming up with Camp Sparkler, and we'd love for all of our listeners to join us for 8 FREE & FUN weeks of virtual summer camp. LKBH Host Todd Loyd is the head counselor at Camp Sparkler this year and each week, we'll  be exploring big feelings, creativity, and a whole lot more! You can listen to the podcast, watch on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@LittleKidsBigHearts), and you can play along with play and learning activities in the Sparkler mobile app! This week — week 2 — we're focused on WORKING TOGETHER, teaming up to discuss issues and solve conflicts. In our Little Kids, Big Hearts episode called "Let's Work it Out," three big siblings with a lot of problem solving experience — Audrey, Cole, and Miles — share some of their experiences and then work together to suggest solutions to challenges they're facing in the Land of Qook-a-lackas. Sound design and mixing is by Ryan Marth, and the original song "Growin' Up This Summer" that you hear in the episode is by Benjamin Weiner.Listen to the original episode and learn more about the podcast online at https://playsparkler.org/podcast. Find out more about Camp Sparkler and play along (for free) in the Sparkler mobile app with lots of do-together activities  at https://playsparkler.org/campsparkler2025/You can also visit our YouTube for videos and resources: https://www.youtube.com/@LittleKidsBigHearts

This summer, Little Kids, Big Hearts is teaming up with Camp Sparkler, and we'd love for all of our listeners to join us for 8 FREE & FUN weeks of virtual summer camp. LKBH Host Todd Loyd is the head counselor at Camp Sparkler this year and each week, we'll  be exploring big feelings, creativity, and a whole lot more! You can listen to the podcast, watch on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@LittleKidsBigHearts), and you can play along with play and learning activities in the Sparkler mobile app! This week — week 1 — we're focused on BELONGING, who we are and how we fit together. ❤️🌟In our Little Kids, Big Hearts episode called "We Belong," four amazing kids — Providence, River, Yonatan, and Valencia — discussed what it means to belong. Todd and the kids then journey to the Land of Qook-a-lackas, where they meet a Qook-a-lacka named Quinnie (played by Alexis Michelle), who needs help figuring out how to help the Link-a-doos, who are coming to the Land as refugees after a big storm destroyed their island.Sound design and mixing is by Ryan Marth, and the original song "Growin' Up This Summer" that you hear in the episode is by Benjamin Weiner.Listen to the original episode and find episode resources online at https://playsparkler.org/little-kids-big-hearts-we-belong-with-alexis-michelle/. Find out more about Camp Sparkler and play along at https://playsparkler.org/campsparkler2025/

Once, in  the Land of Qook-a-lackas, where the sky shimmers lavender in the mornings and the grass hums softly under your feet, there stood a tree that… didn’t do anything.  It didn’t blossom in spring.  It didn’t drop colorful leaves in the fall.  It didn’t blossom or grow fruits like the other trees — no Quinklepuffs, no Quiddleberries!Welcome to the newest original story from the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast. This month, we're focused on the natural world and how it makes us feel. And this story is all about a very special tree. Was it quiet ... or was it just waiting to share its true self with people who were patient?? Listen along to find out. At the end of the episode, listen up for a new song by our friend Benjamin Weiner inspired by the power of nature to help us learn and grow! The song is called GROWIN' UP THIS SUMMER! And in addition to listening on the podcast feed, you can watch a music video of it on our YouTube channel! So visit and sing/dance along. Thanks for joining us for Storytime!Visit us online (https://playsparkler.org/lovingnature/) or on our Youtube channel to learn more (https://www.youtube.com/@LittleKidsBigHearts). 

This month, Little Kids, Big Hearts is focused on the natural world — and how it makes us feel! And this month's "mission" is The Nature 🔍🌻 Detective Mission. Todd and Christy challenge listeners to learn about something new about the nature that surrounds you. See if you can find out the name of a tree or flower near where you live...or discover something else you'd never noticed about the natural world! The more we notice, the more connected we feel — to nature, to others, and to ourselves.Parents/caregivers: Share the results of your kids' Nature Detective Missions with us! You can email it to us at [email protected] or share it on social media. Have fun out there, Nature Detectives!🍀🐛🪲🕸🌵🌳🌴🌿🌱🍄🐚🌷🌸🌻

On this episode, three kids — Charlie from Brooklyn, Knox from Denver, and Sienna from Houston — join LKBH host Todd Loyd to discuss the great outdoors — and how nature makes them feel. The kids and Todd then hike up an enormous imaginary mountain to travel to the Land of Qook-a-lackas … arriving JUST at the right moment to help a Qook-a-lacka friend, Qwiffin (played by the amazing Maulik Pancholy), grow a "memory garden." What is a memory garden?!Qwiffin explains: "Well, it's a garden, but instead of being made out of dirt and seeds and the power of photosynthesis, it grows in a different way: It grows from our memories of being outdoors in nature." The kids and Todd help Qwiffin brainstorm amazing memories of nature in all four seasons: ❄️, 🌸,🌻,🍁!Together, with the power of their memories, they help the garden glow and grow!💚💚💚Maulik Pancholy plays the role of  Qwiffin. Maulik Pancholy is an award-winning actor, author, and activist. His career has spanned hit television shows, animated series, the Broadway stage, and films. He recently completed filming on the Jesse Eisenberg-directed feature film No One Cares (with Julianne Moore and Paul Giamatti), the indie feature Nuked (with Anna Camp and Justin Bartha), and the indie feature ReEntry (with Emily Deschanel and Noma Dumenzwini). He famously played Alec Baldwin’s intrepid assistant Jonathan on the Emmy®, Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild Award-winning NBC comedy 30 Rock; Sanjay on the Showtime hit series Weeds; and Neal on the NBC comedy Whitney. His numerous recurring and guest starring roles include Only Murders in the Building, Leverage: Redemption, The Good Fight, Dynasty, Star Trek: Discovery, Elementary, Friends from College, The Good Wife, Web Therapy, The Comeback, The Sopranos, and Law & Order: Criminal Intent. For his work on television, he has been nominated for and won the Screen Actors Guild Award on multiple occasions. Pancholy has entertained both children and adults as the voice of Baljeet on the Emmy® award-winning Disney animated series Phineas & Ferb, and as the title voice of Sanjay on Nickelodeon’s Sanjay & Craig. He is the voice of Ranjeet on Disney Junior’s Mira, Royal Detective and can be heard on the Netflix series Q-Force and the upcoming Netflix series Ghee Happy. He has appeared in blockbuster films such as 27 Dresses and Hitch, and his many theater credits include starring on Broadway opposite Matthew Broderick and Martin Short in Terrence McNally’s It’s Only A Play, playing opposite Ed Harris in David Rabe’s Good For Otto, starring in the Tony-nominated Broadway production of Bess Wohl’s Grand Horizons, and starring in J.C. Lee’s To My Girls at 2nd Stage Theater. His debut novel, The Best at It, won a 2020 Stonewall Honor in Children’s and Young Adult Literature, and his sophomore novel, Nikhil Out Loud, won a 2023 Lambda Literary Award and was named a Kirkus Best Book of 2022. He is a cofounder of the anti-bullying nonprofit ActToChange.org.💚💚💚Sound design and mixing is by Ryan Marth, and the ukulele music you hear is by actor and composer Bill English. Please learn more about the episode online at https://playsparkler.org/podcastAlso...Little Kids, Big Hearts now has a YouTube channel. Please join our growing community on YouTube! Here's the link: https://www.youtube.com/@LittleKidsBigHearts

On this special episode of the Little Kids, Big hearts podcast, LKBH host Todd Loyd has a conversation with the actor and legend Judge Reinhold. Judge appeared on our podcast at the start of the month — exploring feelings of nervousness and practicing some ways to cope with four big-hearted kids.Now he's back to share his OWN experiences and strategies. It turns out that even having decades of experience as a famous actor doesn't make you immune from feeling anxious, and Judge says that's actually a good thing. He explains: "If you're not nervous, then you're not going to do a good job. And that's how you break down that nervousness and turn it into fuel. It's a good thing. It's going to drive you. Adrenaline can get away from you but it can also make you so sharp and make you better than you. That's that special thing that will make you better than you thought you were, that adrenaline. You have to make it your friend." Learn more about the episode: https://playsparkler.org/feeling-nervous/Or find more resources on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@LittleKidsBigHearts

Everyone feels nervous sometimes — whether you're a Grammy-winning performer or a kid who hasn't started Kindergarten yet!This month, Little Kids, Big Hearts is focused on feeling nervous — what it is to feel nervous and some strategies to cope with the feeling! Today, we're thrilled to release an original Little Kids, Big Hearts song by the amazing educator/composer Benjamin Weiner called NERVOUS. It's inspired by the words that our amazing kid guests shared on our episode "Wobbly to Wow With Judge Reinhold" and by Doechii's powerful song "Anxiety." NERVOUS by Benjamin WeinerI'm feeling nervous, but I know what to do. I'm feeling nervous, but I know what to do. I take a deep breath, and shake my hands out, too. I'm feeling nervous, but I know what to do. My palms are sweaty getting ready for a dance show. My heart starts beating when I'm meeting someone I don't know. Going to a new place. You can see the feeling on my face. I'm feeling nervous, but I know what to do. I'm feeling nervous, but I know what to do. I take a deep breath, and shake my hands out, too. I'm feeling nervous, but I know what to do. When my tummy's feeling funny and my hands shake, My voice is breaking when I think I'm making a mistake. I know my family can calm me down. And it's better just to say it out loud. I'm feeling nervous, but I know what to do. I'm feeling nervous, but I know what to do. I take a deep breath, and shake my hands out, too. I'm feeling nervous, but I know what to do. So, take a deep breath [breath],Shake your hands out: shake, shake, shake, shake. And take a deep breath [breath],And shake your hands out: shake, shake, and singI'm feeling nervous, but I know what to do. I'm feeling nervous, but I know what to do. I take a deep breath, and shake my hands out, too. I'm feeling nervous, but I know what to do. Hmm...Learn more and listen along with us!

Welcome to Storytime!In this original story by the team at Little Kids, Big Hearts, we join Quessa, Kalini, and Karva, and their class of Qook-a-leekies on their first overnight field trip. It can be scary to be away from home ... and as the qook-a-leekies practice climbing and cope with a big storm, nervous energy grows and grows. How will Quessa the Qook-a-leekie cope with all the big nervous feelings? The story is voiced by host Todd Loyd and Creative Producer Christy Pusz Decatur. Thanks for joining us for Storytime!Visit us online (https://playsparkler.org/feeling-nervous/) or on our Youtube channel to learn more (https://www.youtube.com/@LittleKidsBigHearts). 

This month, the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast is focused on nervousness. The kids chatted about what makes them nervous and practiced some strategies to help them cope with nervousness, including a game called What If? ... But Then. In this month's "Mission," Todd and Christy challenge our listeners to play a version of the What If? ... But Then game at home: 1. Think of something that makes you nervous2. Draw a picture of your "But Then" — a positive resolution that turns the nerves to bravery! They also share a song from the the LAST mission by a 5-year-old listener inspired to share HER special song: "Hello, hello, hello WORLD!" You're going to love it!  Please share your "BUT THEN" inspirations! You can share by emailing us at [email protected]. Learn more about the podcast on our website: playsparkler.orgOr you can listen to episodes on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@LittleKidsBigHearts

On this episode, four kids — Miel, Kelly, Leo, and Sammy — join LKBH host Todd Loyd to discuss nervousness: What causes nervous? What can we do with nervous feelings? The kids and Todd then float on fluffy clouds and to the Land of Qook-a-lackas … arriving JUST in time to help a Qook-a-lacka friend, Quillabee, get ready for the Big Feelings Fest! At first, Quillabee is feeling super nervous about sharing a story in front of a crowd — but the kids help Quillabee practice strategies to get past the nerves before the Fest. ☁️ They shake the nerves out of their arms, legs, elbows, etc.☁️ They play "What If...But Then!" to imagine alternative (positive) ends of nervous moments.☁️ They practice taking deep, calming breaths. Together, they learn that EVERYONE feels nervous sometimes — and they learn some strategies to deal with nerves!❤️❤️❤️Quillabee is played by JUDGE REINHOLD, the movie and TV actor. JUDGE REINHOLD has been in over seventy-five motion picture and television roles and enjoys a 35-year relationship with an international audience of all ages.  His films include STRIPES, FAST TIMES AT RIDGEMONT HIGH, RUTHLESS PEOPLE, and Christmas franchise, THE SANTA CLAUSE 1,2,3. BEVERLY HILLS COP 1, 2, 3 play continually internationally, making Judge a familiar presence worldwide.  FAST TIMES and BEVERLY HILLS COP were recently voted by the American Film Institute as two of the “Top 100 American Comedies.”   Judge received an Emmy nomination for his performance as “The Close Talker” on Seinfeld, and his guest-star appearances in Seinfeld and Arrested Development received two of the highest ratings on both series. Judge has been an active member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences since 1987.Judge most recently co-starred with Eddie Murphy in the fourth installment of the Beverly Hills Cop franchise, which was Netflix’s most successful summer movie of 2024, released globally in 250 million homes.❤️❤️❤️Sound design and mixing is by Ryan Marth, and the ukulele music you hear is by actor and composer Bill English. Please learn more about the episode online at https://playsparkler.org/feeling-nervous/Also...Little Kids, Big Hearts now has a YouTube channel. Please join our growing community on YouTube! Here's the link: https://www.youtube.com/@LittleKidsBigHearts

This month, Little Kids, Big Hearts has focused on the power of music ... and we're excited to wrap up the month with a special interview with the person BEHIND the music on our podcast: Our audio engineer and sound designer, Ryan Marth. Host Todd Loyd joins Ryan and one of his kids (Clover, 8) for an interview about the power of music and sound design to help people understand how someone is feeling, even without words. You'll discover... 🎶 How Ryan imagines the sounds that accompany us on outings to the Land of Qook-a-lackas🎶 Some of the things we all have around our homes that can actually be transformed into instruments, and 🎶 How Ryan got inspired by music and how kids can start creating their own songs!In addition to Ryan's work with Little Kids, Big Hearts, he's a film and television composer whose work includes contributions to studio action films, Emmy winning documentaries, and award-winning independent features.  He’s composed, produced, and created audio for major studios, including Disney+, Netflix, Hulu, and National Geographic. Learn more about this month's episodes on our website: https://playsparkler.org/power-of-music/

Welcome to Storytime!In this original story by the team at Little Kids, Big Hearts, we learn the origin of the Qook-a-lacka song healer, Quasnick, who we first met in our episode "Moving Time" when Quasnick helped kids create a song to help a Qook-a-lacka family cope with their big feelings around moving. In this story, Quasnick has practiced and practiced for the Great Qooka Sing, but loses the all-important songbook the day of the performance! Quasnick is poised to apologize and call it a night, but a young friend gives an important reminder: "You don’t need the sheet music. I’ve heard you hum by the shoreline and in the store. I’ve seen you tap your feet in time with the sounds of the forest. Your songs are part of YOU!"Quasnick gets up on stage and creates an original song inspired by the words and feelings of the Qook-a-lackas in the crowd. The song becomes "Power of a Song," which we released earlier this week on our podcast ... AND the moment transformed Quasnick into the Song Healer of the Land of Qook-a-lackas. The Song Healer doesn’t “fix” feelings but rather makes space for them, so all Qook-a-lackas and little Qook-a-leekies know that their hearts have a voice.The story is voiced by host Todd Loyd, Creative Producer Christy Pusz Decatur, and the original Song Healer, Benjamin Weiner!Thanks for joining us for Storytime!Visit us online (https://playsparkler.org/power-of-music/) or on our Youtube channel to learn more (https://www.youtube.com/@LittleKidsBigHearts). 

This month, Little Kids, Big Hearts is focused on the power of music, and today we are thrilled to release an original song by the amazing educator/composer Benjamin Weiner called POWER OF A SONG. What does music mean to you? How does music make YOU feel? Here are the lyrics! Sing along with us!POWER OF A SONGWhen you’re filled up with a feelinglike happy angry, or sad,you might feel some music coming too. And before too long, your feeling is a song, a song that belongs to you.And you can sing loud,And you can sing quiet,And you might feel better, So why don’t you try it, causeYou’ve got a song in your heart,(I bet you can feel it,)You’ve got a song in your heart,(And no one can steal it)When you sing it you can feel,Happy safe and strong,That’s the power of a song.When you’ve got a story,About a king or a magic spell,You might feel a tune start to appear, (la la la…)And before too long, Your story is a song,And people gather round ‘cuz they want to hear…And you can sing fast fast fast fastAnd you can sing slowwww,And people might sing along,And your song will grow… 'cause you’ve got a song in your heart,(I bet you can feel it,)You’ve got a song in your heart,(no one can steal it)When you sing it you can feel,Happy, safe, and strong,That’s the power of a song.A song can move your hands! (Everybody, move your hands!)A song can tap your feet! (Everybody, tap your feet)Oh song can make you dance (Come on: everybody dance) While you’re walking down the street 'cause You’ve got a song in your heart,(I bet you can feel it,)You’ve got a song in your heart,(And no one can steal it)When you sing it you can feel,Happy, safe, and strong,That’s the power of a song.Oh! The power of a song!Oh! The power of a song!Sing it with me now!Oh! The power of a song!One more time now!Oh! The power of a song!

This month, the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast is focused on the power of music! We shared some of our favorite songs from the LKBH podcast, and today, we're excited to share a brand new challenge for our listeners and their families: The Song of YOU Mission! Todd and Christy challenge our listeners to make up their own song  that tells the story of their feelings, their experiences, their hopes and dreams ...We'd love to hear your song: Share it with us at [email protected]. Learn more about the podcast on our website: playsparkler.orgOr you can listen to episodes on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@LittleKidsBigHearts

We're SO excited to share some of our favorite songs from the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast on this special episode about the power of music to help people express our feelings and become braver, kinder, and stronger! 🎶  🎹  🎸 Here's the lineup of songs you'll hear on the episode:❤️ "Super Superpower," by Benjamin Weiner and performed by Q. Smith❤️ "Try," written and performed by Bill English❤️ "Together," written by Lance Horne and performed by Lauren Elder, Julie Garnyé, and Lance Horne ❤️ “A Little Bit Better," written by Benjamin Weiner and performed by Benjamin with kid guests Aurelia, Cris, Henry & Guest Qook-a-lacka Amir Arison❤️ "I Have the Key," written by Benjamin Weiner and performed by Rebecca Naomi Jones❤️ "Just As You Are," by Benjamin Weiner❤️ “You Can Use Your Imagination!” written by Benjamin Weiner and performed by Nadiyah DorseySound design and mixing is by Ryan Marth.Please learn more about the episode online at https://playsparkler.orgWe'll be re-posting the music videos of the songs on our youtube:  @LittleKidsBigHearts ​