Dr. Ronda Taylor Bullock is the co founder and executive director of we are (working to extend anti-racist education), a nonprofit in North Carolina that provides antiracism training for children, families, and educators. I first met Dr. Ronda at the North Carolina Reading Conference, and she blew me away with the resources and the thoughtfulness she had put behind helping teachers and families really think through how to create an antiracist environment. 

[01:00] Setting Kids Up for Success

• The importance of setting families and children up for success, especially in terms of antiracist education.
• Empowering children to recognize fairness and unfairness based on skin color.
• Encouraging conversations about diversity and reading books with characters from various racial and ethnic backgrounds.
• Affirming the identity of children of color and addressing colorism within communities.

[03:33] Creating Inclusive School Environments

• Fostering a welcoming environment in schools for children of all backgrounds.
• The significance of pronouncing students' names correctly and respecting their identities. 

[05:38] Diverse Picture Books for Welcoming Environments:

• Book suggestions for building a diverse and inclusive classroom environment.

07:51] Using Books as Windows, Mirrors, and Sliding Glass Doors

• Reflecting on Dr. Rudine Sims Bishop's concept 
• The importance of representing diverse experiences and perspectives, and the power of books to affirm children's identities and help them recognize the broader world.

[10:24] Embracing Diverse Stories

• Encouraging authentic representation of children of color as protagonists in all kinds of stories.
• Moving beyond oppressive narratives to explore stories of joy, adventure, and Afrofuturism.

[11:54] Selecting Culturally Authentic Books

• Providing a checklist for reviewing materials and books for culturally authenticity, as well as potential red flags.

[13:48] Recommended Authors and Resources

[15:00] Sponsor Ad:

[17:55] Founding "we are" and Its Growth

• Dr. Ronda explains the inception of "we are" and her vision to teach antiracism to children, families, and educators through camps, family engagement, and working with schools.

[23:39] Schools Embracing Antiracism

• Dr. Ronda highlights schools that are working towards embracing antiracism, such as Northside Elementary and Durham Public Schools.

[29:34] Becoming a Peaceful Disruptor

• Dr. Ronda identifies herself as a peaceful disruptor, aiming to create peace while disrupting systems of oppression.

[31:50] Recognized at the White House

• Dr. Ronda shares her experience of being recognized as an emerging black leader at the White House during Black History Month.

[35:11] Future Plans for "we are" 

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Meet Wincey Terry-Bryant, an incredible, knock your socks off edutainer who knows how to connect history, STEM, cultural, and the performing arts in a way that engages early childhood and elementary audiences. She's the CEO of  WinceyCo,  and an international artist who has performed with Sting and Tina Turner and guested on Sesame Street In 1988, Wincey combined her love for music, education and children to found a performing arts troupe that educates audiences about serious social issues and academic subject matter. These dynamic live educational shows are presented by professional Winceyco actors, singers, dancers and musicians. Wincey has produced two educational music cds, one cartoon dvd and a children’s book on bullying.

• [01:30] The journey from singing in the church choir to becoming the CEO of Wincey Co, a company focused on music and early childhood education.
• [05:11] Highlights of an incredible 30-year career, including the joy of impacting young minds and supporting teachers through professional development.
• [07:47] Challenges teachers face today.
• [08:29] Creating programs that focus on under-celebrated figures in history.
• [11:31] How "faction," a mix of fact and action, helps to make history engaging.
• [12:16] The  importance of hands-on learning and EQ (emotional quotient) development in  fostering problem-solving and collaboration among students.
• [14:35] Virtual STEAM course Ad 
• [15:48] The OG Black History assembly, including African kings and queens, the contributions of African and African American inventors, and how they were not always credited due to discrimination.
• [17:17] A jingle Wincey uses to teach children about inventions made by Black inventors.
• [18:16] The joys of being a teaching artist for the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) and how she developed her show "Character Rocks."
• [26:55] Teacher resource guides and lesson plans created to accompany WinceyCo's assembly programs.
• [29:17] The challenge of being holiday-centric when it comes to celebrating Black History Month and Latin Heritage Month, stressing the importance of integrating these celebrations throughout the school year.
• [30:30] Professional Development Ad
• [32:01] Creating educational content that connects and appeals with young audiences.
• [36:30] Working with Wolf Trap as a teaching artist providing performing arts and STEM connections for early childhood educators. She discusses the importance of teaching math skills to young children and making learning fun for them.
• [40:18] The importance of empowering teachers to be creative in their teaching methods and providing valuable experiences for their students.
• [44:00] Covid programming -- how "Wincy Co Workshop"  provided strategies for parents to teach their children at home.
• [50:15] The joys of creating and working with actors, especially helping new actors fulfill their dreams.
• [51:02] Hope in a next generation of children and educators.

View the podcast episode on YouTube.

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Could this be the first podcast broadcast from inside a volcano's magma chamber? As Iceland braces itself for another potential eruption, join us for a special episode of the Adventures in Learning podcast. In this episode, we go Inside the Volcano with co-founder Ólafur Þór Júlíusson and Science of Iceland host Steve Spangler. Join us to learn about the Three Peaks Crater, as well as the difference between a tourist eruption and a seriously impactful eruption. If you want to see the video, check out the youtube upload of the podcast episode.

If you are looking for a good children's picture book to support learning about volcanoes, try Sue Fliess' Kid Scientist: Volcano Experts on the Edge or Eruption! The Story of Volcanoes by Anita Ganeri.

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 Corinna Luyken joins us to share her journey and the story behind her latest book, ABC and You and Me. This delightful picture book celebrates movement, creativity, and the power of imagination.  We  delve into the inspiration and collaborative process behind, Patchwork, written by Matt de la Pena and illustrated by Corinna. We also touch upon the influence of mindfulness in Corinna's work and her personal connection to Thich Nhat Hanh's teachings. Join us as we explore the creative journey and profound messages embedded within Corinna's beautiful illustrations. Youtube link.

• [00:49] Corinna shares her background and how she discovered her passion for storytelling through illustrations and words.
• [02:30] Corinna discusses her unconventional path,  finding inspiration in dance improvisation classes and mindfulness practices.
• [06:45] Corinna shares the story behind her latest book, ABC and You and Me, and its evolution over the years.
• [13:07] Corinna highlights the importance of inclusivity and diversity in children's literature, and the joy of drawing people from all walks of life.
• [15:50] Corinna discusses the resources she is creating for teachers, including a movement script and interactive activities for ABC and You and Me.
• [19:18] Dr. Diane discusses using Patchwork as a tool to connect STEM and STEAM learning with multicultural picture books, encouraging teachers to reflect on their past, present, and future selves.
• [20:15] Corinna shares her experience working with Matt de la Pena on Patchwork and elements of the book that resonate with them both.
• [26:20] The influence of mindfulness in Corinna's work, inspired by Thich Nhat Hanh's book,  Peace Is Every Step
• [31:33] The connection between mindfulness and The Book of Mistakes, where changing perspectives can transform how we perceive the world.
• [33:06]The importance of giving kids the opportunity to look at the world from different perspectives
  [37:51]Mycorrhizal networks and how they connect to  The Tree in Me
  [40:35] Corinna shares her favorite contemporary authors and illustrators.
  [43:10] Corinna discusses her upcoming books, including In the Dark and The Arguers

Thanks for joining me for the first two seasons of the podcast. We are taking a short break this summer as I travel to Iceland and other places, bringing education and programs to teachers and districts everywhere. Please join me beginning in August as we start season three.

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Welcome to Adventures in Learning, where curiosity and connection lead to exciting discoveries. In this episode, we delve into the world of STEM picture books with the acclaimed author Sue Fliess.

With a passion for combining science, technology, engineering, and math with captivating storytelling, Sue has captured the hearts of young readers and educators alike. Sue is the author of more than 50 picture books, including Goldilocks and the Three Engineers, Little Red Rhyming Hood, Mary Had a Little Lab,  Beatrice Bly's Rules for Spies series, Sadie Sprocket Builds a Rocket, the Kid Scientist series, and the recently published Cicada Symphony to name just a few.

Join me as Sue and I discuss her journey as an author, her inspiration for STEM-themed fractured fairy tales, as well as her natural curiosity and wonder that is leading her into more science and nature-based books. What follows are excerpts from our conversation. For the show notes, pictures, and links to Sue's books and activities, visit the Adventures in Learning blog.  You can find all of the books discussed in the podcast on my bookshop.org shop.

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What is an edutainer? How do we use entertainment to inspire STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education for and with young students? In this episode of the Adventures in Learning podcast, we talk with  DLR Foundation executive director Shaakira Hardy.   Shaakira has worked in roles such as science training, program and curriculum development, district-wide science coordinating and directing within two school districts in Florida, Mr. Barrington Irving’s The Flying Classroom in conjunction with Hawker Beechcraft Air Systems, NASA (the National Aeronautics and Space Administration) and YERU STEM Education. Her current mission to encourage space science/astronomy enthusiasm and education in all ages via STEM as a passion which will hopefully continue to encourage children towards careers in those areas.

Grab a cup of coffee, learn about what the DLR Foundation and YERU STEM Education offer, and sign your family up for a free STEM virtual experience this weekend!

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May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Miranda  Schnoor works for NAMI, the National Alliance of Mental Illness. As NAMI Virginia’s Educational Support & HelpLine Coordinator, Miranda oversees the HelpLine, developing and leading a number of NAMI’s programs, and working directly with volunteers. In this conversation, we share resources and picture books that may help caregivers, families, and educators support children's mental health and social emotional learning. 

She graduated from Shenandoah University with a BFA in Acting, then completed a service term with AmeriCorps, teaching literacy in the Hopewell public school system.  Outside of NAMI, Miranda likes painting, reading, writing, and photography. Follow her @miranda.with.a.camera.

[03:53] What is NAMI ?

[07:58] Mental illness, mental health, and how they fit together. 

[09:37] Resources for Mental Health Month -- and beyond

• NAMI 
•  SAMHSA - Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
• Call 211 for Essential Community Services | United Way 211
• Help When You Need It
• Home - FindTreatment.gov
• Home-FindSupport.gov
• findhelp.org by findhelp - Search and Connect to Social Care
• Home - National Empowerment Center (power2u.org)
• if you're in a crisis situation or with someone in a crisis situation, call 988 

[14:37] Mental health and working with kids 

[22:07] Picture books as windows and mirrors
 A Family is a Family is a Family
My Shadow Is Purple
Patchwork
From the Stars in the Sky to the Fish in the Sea
You Matter
All Because You Matter
I Am Enough
Brave Every Day
After the Fall
Calling the Wind
Milo Imagines The World
The Invisible Boy
Be Who You Are

[33:29] Mental Health Month plans

[35:05] What brings you joy?

[36:43] What gives you hope?

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In this episode of the Adventures in Learning podcast, Dr. Diane chats with Alyssa Dituro, executive director of the McNeilly Center for Children in Nashville. Alyssa is an early childhood expert with more than ten years experience directing high quality early childhood programs. Join us as we chat about the importance of antiracist education and what that looks like in an early childhood setting. We also share a range of beautiful picture books designed to help every child feel accepted, seen, and loved. Plus, visit www.drdianeadventures.com for the full show notes, booklists, and resources designed to help you on your antiracist education journey. You can see the video of the episode here. You can follow Alyssa Dituro on Linked In, Instagram, or Facebook.

[01:21] How did you get to where you are today?
[03:43] What is the McNeilly Center?
[07:19] Little Scientists -- Building STEAM Connections with Multicultural Books
[14:00] Why is it important for us to create antiracist multicultural classroom communities?
[18:12] Providing resources for challenging  conversations
[19:06] How do you set up an antiracist preschool?
[26:10] Helping families do the work
[28:49] Favorite picture books to share: Antiracist Baby, Skin Like Mine, Watch Me: A Story of Immigration and Inspiration, Princess Hair, I Am Every Good Thing, Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut, Snow in Jerusalem,  The Skin You Live In
[33:25] Community collaborations and giving ourselves grace on the journey

Want to learn more? Here are some helpful resources.
Embrace Race
Social Justice Resources
Nurturing Antiracist Kids
Guide for Selecting Anti Bias Books
raisingraceconsciouschildren.org 

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"When I think about what experiences I want guests on the expedition to bring back with them, it's this sense of connectedness with our planet." -- Phil Hunter

When I traveled to Antarctica on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with my father and sister last December, we were fortunate enough to have Phil Hunter as our expedition guide. Phil has been guiding travelers around the world’s most remote regions for the past decade, and is grateful for every chance he has to witness our planet’s most stunning and isolated locations.

His passion for the sea is equaled by his passions for wildlife photography and ecosystem dynamics. He is a wonderful storyteller, eager to help people connect and engage with the world around them.

Phil’s degree in marine biology and years of experience in the field make him a knowledgeable and enthusiastic resource for guests traveling with Arctic Tern Expeditions, the company he co-founded that is dedicated to providing conscious, life-changing travel experiences. Plus his passion for the ocean and ability to connect with youth led to him co-founding Ocean Youth Academy to provide access to ocean education for youth around the world who might not otherwise get the opportunity to discover the world's oceans.

What follows is a conversation with Phil Hunter that touches on the challenges and joys of guiding, stories about the extreme polar regions, the impacts of climate change, steps we can take to make a difference now, and his work to empower young people with stories, knowledge, and resources through Ocean Youth Academy. You may also want to check out the blog/show notes for photos and resource links or look for the  YouTube video release. You can connect with Phil on LinkedIn or follow Ocean Youth Academy (Facebook and Instagram) and Arctic Tern Expeditions (Facebook and Instagram) on social media.

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What do bicycles, Bruce Lee, the Dalai Lama, and the woman who helped unlock the secrets of the atom have in common? They are all products of the creative work of author Teresa Robeson.

Teresa Robeson is the APALA Picture Book Award-winning author of Queen of Physics (also ILA Nonfiction PB Honor and NCTE Orbis Pictus Nonfiction Recommended Book). Other publications include Two Bicycles in Beijing and an essay in Nonfiction Writers Dig Deep, edited by Melissa Stewart. Her upcoming works include a nonfiction poem in No World Too Big, edited by Dawson, Metcalf, and Bradley; two biographical graphic novels with Penguin Workshop, Who Is Tibet's Exiled Leader? The 14th Dalai Lama (2023) and the other on Bruce Lee (2024); as well as two picture books, the informational fiction Clouds in Space: The Nebula Story with MIT Kids/Candlewick (2024) and an own-culture picture book with Astra Young Readers (2024). 

Teresa Robeson focuses on science and cultural heritage in her picture books. She was born in Hong Kong, raised in Canada, and now writes and creates from her mini-farm in Indiana. She and her family try to live a self-sufficient lifestyle on 27-acres where they’ve been raising chickens (but not goats) for twenty years and growing and processing much of their own vegetables. When not writing or washing veggies for hours on end, Teresa is an amateur astronomer. Join us for this conversation from the Adventures in Learning podcast series.

Visit the Adventures in Learning blog for complete show notes and photos. You can follow Teresa Robeson on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Pinterest. Visit her website for additional resources and to learn more about the author.

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