PODCAST · kids
The Reading To Connect Show
by Quinn Cummings
A show that encourages families to deepen their bonds and raise resilient kids through the shared experience of reading — with Quinn Cummings and special guests from the world of books and parenting. readingtoconnect.substack.com
Episodes
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Book in Hand
“Book in Hand” is a poem written and read by Quinn Cummings, following the changing shape of reading with her son, from pregnancy to twelve years old. Torn pages, cartwheels, bedtime stories, and a paused game. A mother keeps reading and keeps learning the child beside her. Read the full poem on...
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From Aidyn & Quinn: A Quick Voice Note for Tonight, 6PM local
Tonight, 6PM local — Reading To Connect Day is here 📚💕 It’s happening. Families around the world are already gathering — and tonight at 6PM your local time, it’s your turn. Reading To Connect Day™ was born from something simple: me and my son Aidyn choosing to read for connection over...
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It’s happening.
Announcing the first-ever Reading To Connect Day™ I didn’t plan to create a holiday. I just wanted families to feel safe again—to pause, not perform. To read like it mattered beyond the reading. And when I started sharing our story, something happened. Parents from everywhere started joining in....
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For some... it's deeper than being tired
For Some, It’s Deeper Than Being TiredWhy one wrong math answer made her stop reading to her son. She helped him with his math.She got it wrong.It became his lowest grade of the year.So she stopped reading with him. It wasn’t even a reading moment. But it made her feel like her voice didn’t...
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We’re Not Just Reading...
What My Son—and One Surprising Conversation—Reminded Me About This Movement When my 11-year-old said "I love it because it just feels good...brings us closer" about our reading time, it reminded me why I started all of this. Then a friend shared how my private podcast shifted her from rushed…
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Staying Connected: Friendship, Challenges, and the Stories That Help Us Understand
Join me in this episode of Reading To Connect as I sit down with Hope Larson, New York Times bestselling and multi-Eisner award-winning cartoonist, to talk about her new middle-grade graphic novel, Very Bad at Math. We dive into the power of shared reading experiences, the impact of learning...
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When I Hear Spirituals: A Children’s Book Rooted in the Beauty and Deep History of Black Music
Join me in this episode of Reading To Connect as I sit down with Cheryl Willis Hudson, author of When I Hear Spirituals and co-founder of Just Us Books, to explore how music, storytelling, and Black history come together in children’s books. We dive into the rich legacy of spirituals, how they...
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A 10-Year-Old’s Take on Trump: What Sandcastles Teach Us About Power and the Power of Story
Can Stories Build a More Just World for Our Children? In this heartfelt episode, I share a powerful conversation with my 10-year-old son, Aidyn, sparked during our morning drive to school. His reflection on Donald Trump’s proposal to eliminate the Department of Education stopped me in my tracks:...
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Resisting Erasure: The Power of Black Stories & Women’s History in Children’s Books
Join me in this episode of Reading To Connect as I sit down with Rio Cortez, author of The ABCs of Black History and The ABCs of Women’s History, to explore how children’s books can resist erasure and bring diverse voices to the forefront of history. We dive into the power of representation in...
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Let’s Read Together—The 28-Day Read Black Voices Challenge 📚💕
Join Our 28-Day Read Black Voices for BHM Reading Challenge! 📚✨ It’s here! Our 28-Day Read Black Voices for BHM Reading Challenge invites you to read books featuring Black main characters or written by Black authors—one intentional moment of reading at a time. But don’t worry—it’s not about...
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Building the Future: Kids as Social Change Makers in a Complex World
Join me in this episode of Reading To Connect as I chat with Deepa Iyer, author of We Are The Builders!, about introducing kids to social change in a way they can understand and act on. Deepa’s book inspires children to see themselves as active change makers in their communities, whether through...
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When Family Reading Feels Like a Struggle 📚💕
In this episode, Quinn Cummings dives into the heart of family reading. If you’ve ever felt guilty about not reading enough with your kids, you’re not alone—and this episode is for you. Quinn challenges the idea that literacy alone is enough to motivate busy parents, especially when kids are...
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A reminder to stay open 📚💕
In this heartfelt episode, host Quinn shares a touching story about a quiet Saturday spent with her son, Aidyn. While engrossed in Ta-Nehisi Coates' "A Beautiful Struggle," Quinn is drawn into an unexpected and profound conversation initiated by Aidyn's curiosity about the Bible and the wildfires...
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Transforming Reading Time: What’s Ahead for You in 2025
Welcome to 2025! In this episode, I’m reflecting on the journey of rebuilding Reading to Connect, sharing exciting updates, and revealing what’s next for the mission. Learn how The ENGAGE Method™ transforms books into tools for deeper family connections and why we’ve shifted focus to prioritize...
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A Conversation with Aaron Blabey, Creator of The Bad Guys
In this short and lively episode, we’re joined by bestselling author Aaron Blabey, the creator of The Bad Guys series. Aidyn and I dive into the inspiring story of how Aaron’s desire to help his son fall in love with reading sparked a global phenomenon. Aaron shares insights on the persistence it...
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Stories as Shields: Building Empathy in a Divided World
In this week’s episode of Reading to Connect, we’re joined by Christy Mandin, the creative mind behind Millie Fleur's Poison Garden. Christy shares how her picture books inspire children to embrace their unique selves, helping parents foster resilience and self-acceptance in their kids. We…
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Our Children & The Power of Self-Acceptance
In this week’s episode of Reading to Connect, we’re joined by Christy Mandin, the creative mind behind Millie Fleur's Poison Garden. Christy shares how her picture books inspire children to embrace their unique selves, helping parents foster resilience and self-acceptance in their kids. We…
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Storytelling, Friendship, and Connecting Through Books
In this episode of the Reading To Connect Show, host Quinn Cummings sits down with Dork Diaries creator Rachel Renee Russell and her daughter, Nikki Russell, to discuss the 16th book in the beloved series. Together, they explore the magic of chapter books, the transition from picture books to...
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Serving Joy in Every Page: Winsome Bingham on Children's Literature - Encore Presentation
This episode is our favorite annual Thanksgiving special and we are excited to dive into it with our special guest, Winsome Bingham. A US Army veteran and educator, Winsome is the author of the delightful children's book "Soul Food Sunday". In the first segment of the episode, Winsome shares…
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Embracing Adventure, Imagination, & Homeschooling Insights with Courtney B. Dunlap
Have you ever been captivated by a child's expansive imagination? Have you wondered at the transformative power of books in a child's life? We've been exploring these themes with Courtney B Dunlap, author of The Rumble Hunters and a dedicated home educator. Courtney, a former mental health...
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Crafting Courage in Kids: How 'Hurricamp!' by Steph Katzovi Inspires Young Independence
Welcome to a journey of independence, resilience, and family bonding in this episode of Parenting & Bonding w/ children's Books, as we sit down with author Steph Katzovi. Discover her inspiring chapter book, 'Hurricamp,' where childhood memories of summer camp blend into a tale of growth and...
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Unlocking Parent-Child Ties through Musical Storytime with Amanda Seibert
Have you ever sung your child to sleep and felt that incredible bond, that unique connection that only a lullaby can create? That's precisely the magic we explore with Amanda Seibert, founder of Mama Sing My Song. Amanda shares her wonderful journey of turning her child's name into a lullaby that...
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Dive into Dork Diaries: A Heartfelt Chat with Rachel Renée & Nikki Russell
Prepare for an enlightening conversation with the mother-daughter powerhouse behind the beloved children's book series, "Dork Diaries." Rachel and Nikki, take us on a captivating journey behind the pages, revealing the magic and messages that have resonated with millions of young readers…
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The Family That Reads Together: A Conversation with Peter H. & Henry 'Rocket' Reynolds
Get set for a heartwarming discussion with New York Times bestselling author Peter H Reynolds and his budding storyteller son, Henry Rocket Reynolds. Can you remember the bedtime stories that sparked your imagination and filled your dreams with magic? Remember that feeling? We rekindle that love...
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Exploring the Power of Children's Literature with Author-Illustrator Violet LeMay
Can a book transform your home and foster deeper connections within your family? Tune in as we unpack this intriguing concept with the talented author-illustrator Violet LeMay. Violet, who has illustrated 44 books, six of which she has authored, takes us on a journey behind the scenes of her...
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Discovering Eco Happiness: Parenting, Nature and Emotional Health with Sandi Schwartz
Join us as we engage in a heartwarming conversation with author Sandi Schwartz, who shares about her book Sky's Search for Eco Happiness. Sandi, the founder and director of the Eco Happiness Project, takes us on a journey through her background, experiences of parenting two school-aged children,...
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Children's Books, Bonding, and the Importance of Read Alouds with Eleni Fuiaxis
What if a single children's book could bridge the gap between parents and their young ones, fostering empathy, understanding, and a love for reading? This episode promises to deliver on that thought, as we welcome Eleni Fuiaxis to our show. Eleni is a mother, teacher, and published author, whose...
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Inspiring Young Change-Makers with 'Good Eggs': Meet Author Sandy Ciaramitaro
What if there existed a magical world where little eggs journeyed across the globe, learned various cultures, and served their communities? Welcome to the wonderous world of 'Good Eggs', crafted by the charismatic author and teacher, Sandy Ciaramitaro. Her love for storytelling ignited during her...
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Enriching Minds with Stories: The Power of Reading & Its Impact on Child Development w/ Timothy Stuetz
Every story has a beginning, and for our guest, Timothy Stuetz, it started with a box of bears mysteriously delivered to his doorstep and an offhand remark from his mother. The result? A thrilling journey into the world of children's books and the creation of 86 whimsical tales (at the time of…
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The Secret to Raising a Math Whiz (It's Not What You Think!) w/ Dave Cole
Get ready for an incredible episode that's all about helping your child grow and thrive through the magic of reading! Our special guest, Dave Cole, has a passion for both math and storytelling, and he's here to share his fantastic book series, 'The Math Kids,' which is all about learning and...
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Lyn Sisson-Talbert, Author 'Jingle Jangle' - Special Holiday Episode
Support the show Wanna be on the show? We're always looking for great authors and educators to join us. Check out the website and share your mission with us! Apply To Be On The Show This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes…
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Winsome Bingham's Coretta Scott King Honor Book, 'Soul Food Sunday' (Special Thanksgiving Holiday Episode)
Children's book author, Winsome Bingham, joins us for a discussion around Black family tradition, diversity in books, and her Coretta Scott King Award Winning Book, 'Soul Food Sunday'. Learn more about Winsome Bingham >> https://binghamwrites.com/ Grab the book Soul Food Sunday by Winsome…
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The Stories Behind Adoption for Children w/ Anna Maria DiDio
We often hear about adoption from the adoptive parent’s point of view. Rarely do we get to step into the mind of a child and learn what the experience is for them. Once the actual adoption process is finalized, it’s easy to negate all the emotions the child experiences. And while adoption is...
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Building Family and Community Through Books w/ Leslie Gang of Hindi's Libraries
Over the last few years, we’ve all taken the time to consider exactly what family means to us. We would venture into the world avoiding unfamiliar people, sanitizing multiple times a day– all to keep our family safe. What a crazy time! A time that made us realize what matters the most, family. A...
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Advocating for Our Children’s Mental Health w/ Dr. Tamera Foley
The past few years have drastically changed our way of living. It changes the way we communicate, work, and educate our children. While we are so busy adjusting to change, we often forget that our children also need support. Today, the author spotlight is on Dr. Tamera Foley, a veteran educator…
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Teaching Our Children to Choose Their Own Attitude w/ Wendy Fedan
Have you ever been in a situation where your child wakes up as Mr. Grumpy pants, and you feel like you’re walking on eggshells around them? Their negative energy affects you and everyone else in the household, and they have no idea how to deal with the bad attitude. What we can do to help them as...
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How Children’s Books Create Compassion and Connection w/ Michael John Sullivan
Did you know that reading books together creates a warm, emotional bond between you and your children? They help create a special connection, not only a parent-children bond but also a link to encourage us to dream. This episode’s author spotlight is on Michael John Sullivan; if the name sounds...
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Tackling Great Big Feelings with Way Past Books w/ Hallee Adelman
What are you feeling right now? Happy? Sad? Lonely? Something you can’t quite describe? With so many emotions to feel, it can be overwhelming. And if it’s overwhelming for us– imagine how your kids may be feeling! The best we can do to help our children is to create the space to allow the hard...
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How Parents and Teachers Model a Love for Reading w/ Melissa Nikohl
Ever wonder why some kids take to reading a bit more than others? Especially at home, when you ask them to read aloud, they may feel like it's a school assignment rather than an engaging activity. We play an important role in modeling reading for our kids. Children learn through observation and...
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Let's Practice Sounds and Speech with Books! w/ Payal Burnham
Does your child talk comfortably at home but behave differently around other people? Like when they need to go back to school, they tend to be more reserved, shy, and quiet. Our children go through a lot of changes in their life, and those transitions may result in fear and anxiety that can…
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Do Your Kids Know How To Problem Solve? w/ Sari Karplus
Do your children have a best toy buddy? That one friend who is always by their side. A playmate and companion just like Buzz LightYear to Andy in Toy Story. Our children have a special bond with their toys. For some children, a robot model is not just a toy but a robot friend. If that’s your kid,...
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Is My Friend Really My Friend? w/ Jessica Speer
Remember the time when you had a FQ (friendship quarrel) with your BFF? How do you handle the situation? Do you feel that friend is a real friend or not really a friend? Because the truth is even best friends don't always get along, and that is OKAY! The author's spotlight is on Jessica Speer...
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The Influence of Books to Achieve Your Child’s Dream! w/ Darryl “DMC” McDaniels
Have you ever read a book and then watched its movie adaptation or vice versa? What have you noticed? The book is more detailed! It allows you to feel, react, and act in a certain way because books have a power that resonates with the reader in a way that no other medium does. So, we need more...
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How Superheroes Solve Everyday Problems w/ Erin Twamley
Did you know that aside from shooting laser beams and having supernatural powers, superheroes also solve everyday problems? Today’s author spotlight is on Erin Twamley, an award-winning children’s book author of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) books and an educator. Erin shared...
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Helping Kids Understand Breast Cancer w/ Marci Greenberg Cox
Helping Kids Understand Breast Cancer - Interview w/ Children's Book Author, Marci Greenberg Cox 'Mommy Has a Boo-Boo' We chat about her book and author journey. To learn more, visit https://www.florpublishing.com/ Check out Marci's books here: https://amzn.to/3AVTMYo This episode was originally...
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How Dr Sheila R. Thomas & Her Children's Books Help Families Build a Solid Educational Foundation
Dr. Sheila R. Thomas, affectionately known as The Parent Partner, is a passionate educational leader who finds joy in helping others succeed. On this episode, we talk about how her work supports, encourages, and inspires parents to take action to support their child's journey-- in every area of...
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How The BCALA is Advocating for Library Services & Resources for the African American Community with President Shauntee Burns-Simpson
Pres Shauntee Burns-Simpson of the Black Caucus American Library Association joined us to discuss how the association continues to serve as an advocate for the development, promotion, and improvement of library services and resources to the nation’s African American community; and provides...
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How Writer, Alice Faye Duncan, Uses Picture Books & Poetry To Deliver Our History To Children
I sat with award-winning author, poet, and school librarian Alice Faye Duncan to discuss her contributions to children's literature. Heavily focused on her books, Evicted! and Opal Lee And What It Means To Be Free, we travel down memory lane with Alice as she details how she brought these stories...
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How Winsome Bingham, Educator, Master Cook & Army Vet-- Helps Us Celebrate Black Family Traditions with Children's Books
Children's book author, Winsome Bingham, joins us for a discussion around Black family tradition, diversity in books, and her Coretta Scott King Award Winning Book, 'Soul Food Sunday'. To learn more, visit https://binghamwrites.com/ Check out Winsome's book here: books here…
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How This Author & Father of 5 is Teaching His Children Patience with Ben Stern
Ben is the father of four Princesses and a Superhero. Raising five beautiful, smart, independent children has inspired and challenged him to use creative and original ideas to teach them essential life lessons. The Flip and Friends series are stories he originally created to educate his own...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
A show that encourages families to deepen their bonds and raise resilient kids through the shared experience of reading — with Quinn Cummings and special guests from the world of books and parenting.
readingtoconnect.substack.com
HOSTED BY
Quinn Cummings
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does The Reading To Connect Show have?
The Reading To Connect Show currently has 78 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is The Reading To Connect Show about?
A show that encourages families to deepen their bonds and raise resilient kids through the shared experience of reading — with Quinn Cummings and special guests from the world of books and parenting. readingtoconnect.substack.com
How often does The Reading To Connect Show release new episodes?
The Reading To Connect Show has 78 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to The Reading To Connect Show?
You can listen to The Reading To Connect Show on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts The Reading To Connect Show?
The Reading To Connect Show is created and hosted by Quinn Cummings.
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