Little Kids, Big Hearts

Storytime: The Story String

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 05:00:00 -0400

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 distance
Meet Quinjamin and Quillow, and discover the magic of the Story String
Hear that missing someone and having fun on the same day can both be true
Learn that our hearts are big enough to hold more than one feeling at once
Be inspired to make their own Story String while someone they love is away

Grown-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 pieces
Talking about how your family keeps growing even when someone is away
Sharing a memory from a time you were apart from someone you love and what helped

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/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcast

Credits:
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

Mission: The Bedtime Brave Plan (Feeling Safe and Cozy When Someone is Away)

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 05:00:00 -0400

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 night
Listen to real kids share what helps them feel safe when someone they love is away
Learn that missing someone and feeling okay can both be true at the same time
Discover that a bedtime routine helps your brain know it is time to rest
Get a mission to make their very own Bedtime Brave Plan

Grown-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 it
Talking about what it feels like when someone we love has to go away for a while
Trying something new in your bedtime routine and treating it like an experiment
Sending your child's Bedtime Brave Plan drawing to the show so we can share it (podcast@playsparkler.org)

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.

🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website:
https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Kidventure: When Someone You Love is Far Away

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 05:00:00 -0400

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 moonlight
Meet Quodger, a Qook-a-lacka who is missing their grown-up and needs some help
Learn two real strategies for coping when someone you love is far away
Discover that missing someone and being proud of them can both be true at once
Be reminded that they are not alone, even when things feel quiet and hard

Grown-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 treat
Starting a countdown calendar until your loved one comes home
Talking about all the feelings it is okay to have when someone is away
Encouraging your child to draw a picture or write a note to send to someone far away

About 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.

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.

Credits:
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

Interview: "Lulu is a Rhinoceros" Author Answers Kids' Biggest Questions!

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 05:00:00 -0400

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 television
Learn why the story's message, the perfect me is me, matters for every kid
Discover why curiosity is a superpower and judgment is a dead end
Be reminded that bravery means doing something even when you feel scared
Hear "The Perfect Me" performed live during the episode

Grown-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 listening
Talking about a time your child tried something new
Practicing saying "I'm easy to love" together out loud

About 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.

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.

🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website:
https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Storytime: The Stars of Twinkle Top

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 05:00:00 -0400

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 adventure
Meet Quivian, a Qook-a-leekie whose love of stargazing sets them apart from the crowd
Discover what happens when the Moon Muffin Mist rolls in during the Quiddleberry Gathering
Learn that the things that make you curious and different can become gifts you share
Hear a story that celebrates being exactly who you are

Grown-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 them
Encouraging your child to keep paying attention to the things that spark their curiosity
Sharing a time when something you loved turned out to be more useful than you expected

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.

🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website:
https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Mission: What Makes You YOU?

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 05:00:00 -0400

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 themselves
Explore how identity shows up in all kinds of different ways
Discover that you cannot tell what someone loves just by looking at them
Reflect on what makes them feel most like themselves
Get a mission to notice, share, and ask

Grown-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 it
Noticing and naming something specific your child does that feels uniquely them
Encouraging your child to try the mission with a friend, sibling, or grandparent

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.

🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website:
https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Kidventure: When Being Yourself Feels Hard (And What Helps!)

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 05:00:00 -0400

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 imaginations
Help Quivvy figure out how to stay true to herself while leaving room for her friends
Share the things that make them uniquely themselves and feel lit up inside
Learn that friendships can stretch and grow without anyone having to shrink
Discover that being yourself sometimes means letting other sparkles shine too

Grown-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 you
Talking about a time you felt like you had to hide something you loved to fit in
Encouraging 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.

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/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcast

Credits:
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

Interview: Max & Ruby Author/Illustrator Answers Kids' Biggest Questions!

Fri, 29 May 2026 05:00:00 -0400

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 around
Discover why creative writing is the last gift to show up, and why that is okay
Learn how getting unstuck works the same way for authors as it does for scientists
Find out what Rosemary believes are the two most important things any young writer can do
Be inspired to pay attention to the ideas that go bing in their minds

Grown-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.

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.

🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website:
https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Bonus Interview: Meet the Tiny T-Rex Children's Book Author!

Fri, 22 May 2026 05:00:00 -0400

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 animals
Discover that writing lots of bad stories is part of writing a great one
Learn why friendship and always being there are at the heart of the Tiny T-Rex series
Find out about Jonathan's upcoming books including Uh-Oh Hugo and Beware the Sock Monkeys
Be inspired to tell their own stories through drawing, writing, or pretend play

Grown-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 listening
Encouraging your child to make up voices for their stuffed animals or toys
Talking about what it means to have a friend who is always there, even when things are hard

About 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.com

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.

🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website:
https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Song 🎶: A Real Songwriter Talks & Sings About Siblings!

Fri, 15 May 2026 05:00:00 -0400

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 Hearts
Learn how a real songwriter turns feelings and memories into music
Discover that writing lots of bad songs is part of writing one good one
Find out why listening is the most important skill a musician can have
Be inspired to follow the fun when learning something new

Grown-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 true
Encouraging your child to write, draw, or sing about a feeling they have had recently
Talking about what "following the fun" looks like when your child is learning something new

About 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_burkholder

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.

🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website:
https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Mission: Little Siblings, Big Feelings

Fri, 08 May 2026 05:00:00 -0400

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 siblings
Learn three simple strategies for handling sibling conflict with patience and flexibility
Explore the idea that big feelings like frustration are totally valid and okay
Discover that sometimes when things get knocked down, you can build them back even better
Reflect on what they love, and what is hard, about the siblings in their lives

Grown-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 happens
Acknowledging that frustration with siblings is normal and worth talking about
Noticing and naming moments when your child shows patience or flexibility
Sharing your own sibling stories from when you were young

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.

🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website:
https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Kidventure: Little Siblings Crash the Build Zone!

Fri, 01 May 2026 05:00:00 -0400

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 basket
Help Queniel solve a sibling conflict with creative thinking
Learn how to set clear boundaries with younger sibs
Practice using words when things go wrong
Discover that understanding why someone acts the way they do can change everything

Grown-Ups, You Can Extend the Kidventure By:

Talking about a time a sibling or friend accidentally upset them and what helped
Practicing kind, clear phrases before conflicts happen
Noticing and naming what younger siblings might be trying to communicate
Celebrating your child when they show patience with a younger sibling

Subscribe, Rate, and Share:
If this episode resonated with your family, please subscribe, rate, and share. It helps other families discover LKBH.

Credits:
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

Interview: A Real Farmer 🧑🏼‍🌾 Answers Kids' Biggest Questions!

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0400

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 one
Discover that farming is hard, hopeful, and deeply connected to community
Learn how bees, soil, seasons, and care are all part of where our food comes from
Find out how to look for a farm near where they live
Be inspired to think differently the next time they see produce at the grocery store

Grown-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 area
Talking about what it means to support small businesses in your community
Encouraging your child to try a vegetable straight from a garden or farm stand

About 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.

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/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcast

🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website:
https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Storytime: Slow Down and Notice!

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0400

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 characters
Discover that slowing down helps us notice things that others miss
Learn that small, quiet actions can create real and meaningful change
Explore what it means to care for the world around you in your own small way
Be reminded that the best things usually start small

Grown-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 environment
Asking 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 life

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.

🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website:
https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Mission: Kids Can Help The Earth!

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0400

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 matters
Hear real ideas from kids about how they help take care of the planet
Discover that small actions, done by lots of kids, can make a big difference
Get inspired to try their own version of Georgia's "making things bin"
Receive this week's mission and think about which step to take first

Grown-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 supplies
Going on a walk and picking up litter together
Talking about where trash goes and why it matters for animals and oceans
Celebrating whatever small step your child decides to take

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.

Credits:
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

Kidventure: Can Kids Help Heal The Land? 🍀💚

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 10:00:00 -0400

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 mystery
Explore the connection between bees, flowers, weather, and the natural world
Discover that caring for the environment starts with small, meaningful choices
Learn that it is okay to sit with big feelings without having all the answers
Make a Qook-a-lacka promise to care for the earth in their own way

Grown-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 connected
Encouraging your child to reuse something before throwing it away
Reminding 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.

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.

Credits:
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

Interview: A 68-Year Friendship Story!

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0400

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 counting
Discover that friendship isn't about never disagreeing. It's about choosing each other again and again
Explore how staying connected looks different at different stages of life
Laugh along with two lifelong best friends who still make each other giggle
Reflect on the friendships in their own lives and what makes them special

Grown-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 child
Talking about what it feels like to have someone who is always in your corner
Encouraging your child to think about the friends they have now and what they love about them
Asking: "Is there a friend you want to make sure you stay close to as you grow up?"

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.

🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website:
https://playsparkler.org/podcast

SONGS: Friendship Songs That’ll Make You Dance!

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0400

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 Friends
Up Down All Around
Up in Our Treehouse
Room for You at the Table

Perfect for kids ages 2 to 11 and for listening together as a family.

In This Episode, Kids Will:

Listen to new songs about friendship
Discover 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 songs
Talking about a meal your family has shared with friends

About 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/1875727916
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/album/77Oj3I8EpxrVMVoor2346g

Subscribe, Rate, and Share:
Please subscribe, rate, and share the show. It helps other families discover us:

Credits:
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.”

Mission: Be a Friend and Fight Loneliness With Kindness!

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0400

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 help
Learn what it means to be an "upstander" in their school and community
Explore how friendship can look loud and brave OR quiet and gentle
Discover that even tiny acts of kindness can make someone feel seen and included
Reflect on the magic of friendship and why it makes everything better

Grown-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."

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.

🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website:
https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Kidventure: Navigating Friendship

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500

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 time
Learn that feeling left out is normal and that feelings deserve to be named
Practice finding brave, kind words for necessary conversations
Understand that friends sometimes need space, and that's okay, too

GROWN-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!

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.

Credits:
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

Interview: Exploring Community with Matt de la Peña

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500

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 belonging
Learn that stories can help us understand others’ experiences
Practice curiosity and empathy through conversation

Grown-Ups, Extend the Conversation By:

Talking about stories you’ve read together
Encouraging kids to describe kind things that they have done for others or others have done for them
Reflecting together on how family and neighborhood help shape who we are

About 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.

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.

Credits:
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

Storytime: The Light of Loodle Loop

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500

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 built
Explore how creativity can connect people
Understand that feeling alone doesn’t mean being forgotten
Discover the power of sharing their unique light

Featured Characters (played by Todd, Rose, and Leo):

Quincy, a thoughtful Qook-a-leekie
Quinella, their loving grand Qook-a-laka
Quimby the Glow Worm
The Qook-a-lakas and Qook-a-leekies of the town

Perfect for...

Kids ages 2–8
Bedtime and story time routines
Families exploring kindness, belonging, and togetherness

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.

Credits:
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

Mission: Build Community With Kindness

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500

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 community
Explore how kindness can show up in small, everyday ways
Practice empathy, flexibility, and responsibility
Reflect on how it feels to give and receive care

Grown-Ups, You Can Extend the Mission By:

Asking your child who they helped or noticed today
Brainstorming one small, kind action your family can try this week
Noticing and naming how kindness feels in the body and heart
Encouraging effort and thoughtfulness over “doing it perfectly”

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.

Credits:
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

Kidventure: Building Community Together!

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500

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 ways
Learn how helping others strengthens connection and belonging
Discover that everyone can contribute to their community
Use imagination to turn challenges into opportunities

GROWN-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.

🌈 Visit The Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast website:
https://playsparkler.org/podcast

Interview: Family, Belonging & Imagination with Author/Illustrator Jessica Love

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500

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 ideas
Explore what family love and support can look like
Practice curiosity by asking thoughtful questions
Feel encouraged to draw, imagine, and create their own stories

Grown-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.

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/LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcast

Credits:
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

Song: "I've Got My Family" with Benjamin Weiner

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500

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 music
Learn that families can look many different ways
Reflect on traditions, routines, and shared moments
Feel 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.

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.

Credits:
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

Mission: Let's Make a Family Quilt!

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500

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 podcast@playsparkler.org (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 special
Practice expressing feelings through art and storytelling
Celebrate different family structures and traditions
Build empathy by seeing how other families share love
Take part in a creative, real-world mission

GROWN-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

Kidventure: Who's in My Family?

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500

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 way
Practice empathy through conversation and imagination
Learn that love, care, and connection define “family”
Use creative storytelling to solve a problem in the Land of Qook-a-lakas
Reflect on routines and traditions that build belonging

Grown-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!

Credits:
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

Get Ready for Season 5 of Little Kids, Big Hearts

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

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! 💛

Camp Sparkler: Hopes & Dreams

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400

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! :)

Camp Sparkler: Feelings

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0400

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! :)

Camp Sparkler: Helping Others!

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400

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

Camp Sparkler: Let's Imagine!

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 16:00:00 -0400

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! :)

Camp Sparkler: Feeling Grateful!

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

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! :)

Camp Sparkler: Calming Down

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 18:00:00 -0400

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! :)

Camp Sparkler: Working Together

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 09:00:00 -0400

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

Camp Sparkler: We Belong!

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0400

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/

Storytime: The Curious Case of the Quiet Tree

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

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).

The Nature Detective Mission 🔍🌻

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

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 support@playsparkler.org or share it on social media.

Have fun out there, Nature Detectives!

🍀🐛🪲🕸🌵🌳🌴🌿🌱🍄🐚🌷🌸🌻

We 💚 Nature with Maulik Pancholy

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

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/podcast

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

Judge Reinhold Interview: How to Leverage Nervous Energy to Fuel Your Best Work

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400

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

Feeling Nervous? Sing Along With Us!

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400

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 Weiner

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 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 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 sing

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!

Storytime: Quessa's Big Camp Out

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400

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).

The I'm Brave Mission

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400

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 nervous

2. 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 podcast@playsparkler.org.

Learn more about the podcast on our website: playsparkler.org

Or you can listen to episodes on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@LittleKidsBigHearts

Wobbly to Wow With Judge Reinhold

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400

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

Brush! Whoosh! Pop! — The Sounds of Our Feelings

Fri, 30 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400

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/

Storytime: The Day the Songbook Disappeared

Fri, 23 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400

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).

Original Song: Power of A Song

Wed, 21 May 2025 08:00:00 -0400

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 SONG

When 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, 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.

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 fast
And 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!

Sing it with me now!

Oh! The power of a song!

One more time now!

Oh! The power of a song!

The Song of YOU Mission

Fri, 16 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400

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 podcast@playsparkler.org.

Learn more about the podcast on our website: playsparkler.org

Or you can listen to episodes on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@LittleKidsBigHearts

Super Songs for Super Kids

Fri, 09 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400

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 Dorsey

Sound design and mixing is by Ryan Marth.

Please learn more about the episode online at https://playsparkler.org

We'll be re-posting the music videos of the songs on our youtube: @LittleKidsBigHearts

Unstoppable: How to Turn Limitations into Opportunities — With Ali Stroker

Fri, 02 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Ali Stroker is a trailblazing actor and advocate who joined the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast as a guest Qook-a-lacka on our episode focused on inclusion. Today, Ali is back — out of character, as her amazing self — to talk with LKBH Host Todd Loyd about her own experiences with disability and inclusion.

❤️ She reflects on what Scarlett and Zach said on the episode: "When I hear Scarlett talking about horseback riding: It felt like she was explaining something that was so normal. And that, to me, is progress."

❤️ She shares her own personal motto — Turning Limitations into Opportunities: "It can apply to somebody with a disability or not because as human beings, we have limitations. It's part of existing in the world."

❤️ She talks about being a mom with a disability — and how being a mom in a wheelchair affects her parenting and her son's independence.

❤️ She talks about the power of "inclusive playgrounds." "I never had one inclusive playground growing up, and to this day, I still go to the playground and I have this like funny feeling in my stomach because it was a place of confusion and shame and frustration for me as a child ... Every kid deserves that freedom and that ability to play in an outdoor space with their friends."

❤️ She talks about a moment when she was in 1st grade and her PE teachers included her in a lesson on "how to skip," which changed her life. "Thirty-one years later, I still remember it because it felt like I was included and someone had taken a little bit of time to get creative and make me feel like I was learning a new school too, and that I could be a part of the group in moving...And that meant everything to me, everything!"

❤️ She talked about her children's book "Ali and the Sea Stars," which was based on her own experience as a six year old being introduced to musical theater by her neighbor on the Jersey Shore. "It basically set my entire life journey of becoming a musical theater and actress and everything that I do now."

❤️ She shares advice for kids with disabilities who want to try something new that hasn't been done before.

Ali Stroker is a Tony Award winner for her role as ‘Ado Annie’ in Rodgers and Hammerstein's Oklahoma! She made history as the first actor in a wheelchair to appear on Broadway in Deaf West’s acclaimed revival of Spring Awakening and the first actor in a wheelchair to win a Tony. She was a series regular on the Netflix series, Echoes, and starred in the Lifetime holiday film, Christmas Ever After. Ali recurred in the final season of Netflix's Ozark and in Hulu’s Only Murders in the Building. She co-wrote the novel, The Chance to Fly and its sequel, Cut Loose!; and she wrote the children's book, Ali and the Sea Stars. She was recently seen opposite Matthew Broderick in Babbitt at Shakespeare Theatre Company in DC and played 'Lady Anne' in the Shakespeare in the Park production of Richard III. She’s performed her one woman show all over the country. Her mission to improve the lives of others through the arts is captured in her motto: “Turning Your Limitations Into Your Opportunities.”

Learn more on our episode webpage: https://playsparkler.org/inclusion/

Watch on our Youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/@LittleKidsBigHearts

Storytime: Quiggle's Wheels

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Welcome to storytime!

This new fictional story, set in the Land of Qook-a-lackas, is about making sure that everyone has the opportunity to play.

The main character is Quiggle, a little Qook-a-leekie who travels around the Land of Qook-a-lackas in chair with rainbow, sparkling wheels. When it's time for the annual tradition of climbing the Twisty Tree as a class, all the Qook-a-leekies have to come together to figure out a way to include ALL their classmates, including Quiggle!

"Quiggle's Wheels" is read by our host, Todd Loyd, who is a teacher in New York City who LOVES a good storytime, along with Christy Pusz Decatur, the LKBH creative producer.

Find resources on inclusion — the focus this month — from LKBH online at: https://playsparkler.org/inclusion/

VISIT and subscribe to our YouTube Channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@LittleKidsBigHearts

#story #storytime #inclusion #disability #similarities #workingtogether #playingtogether #parenting

Song & Interview: "Together" With Lance Horne

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400

On this special episode, Little Kids, Big Hearts host Todd Loyd chats with award-winning composer, lyricist & performer Lance Horne 🎶 about the disability he was born with and how he overcame his early challenges to become an Emmy Award winning songwriter and musician.

Lance explains: "I spent four summers of my childhood with my head wrapped in a bandage. And it meant not being able to go out and play on the swing set or having people kind of point and wonder what's going on or getting ready for a surgery or being excited about a surgery..."

He goes on to recount how two different teachers — Miss Roseberry and Susan Grove — inspired him to pursue music and to write his own songs.

At the end of the episode, Lance shares the new song he created — TOGETHER — inspired by the words Zach and Scarlett shared earlier this month on the LKBH episode "Inclusion Matters With Ali Stroker."

Recording & Mix: Jacob Tourjeman

Vocals: Lauren Elder, Julie Garnyé, Lance Horne

Whistling: Lauren Elder

Music: Lance Horne

Lyrics: Lance Horne & Todd Loyd

***

Lance Horne is an Emmy award-winning composer, pianist, singer, music director, and producer who has arranged for/performed with Alan Cumming, Jake Shears/Scissor Sisters, Ricki Lake, Rufus Wainwright, Pink Martini, Liza Minnelli, Kylie Minogue, the von Trapps, Ben Folds, Neil Gaiman, Chita Rivera, Justin Vivian Bond, Sandra Bernhard, Shoshana Bean, Amanda Palmer/Dresden Dolls, Cheyenne Jackson, Jelani Remy, Kelli O’Hara, Ken Page, Ana Gasteyer, Meow Meow, Taylor Mac, the Gatlin Brothers, Boston Pops, Seoul Philharmonic, Atlanta Symphony, London/SF/LA/NY Gay Men’s Chorus, Sydney Dance Company, Michael Feinstein, Carol Channing, and Sesame Street. He performed with Kristen Chenoweth for President Obama, the First Lady, and Queen Elizabeth.

Broadway: vocal arrangements for Little Women, arrangements and appearance in Regina Spektor on Broadway. Music for ‘Bent’ dir. Moises Kauffman at Mark Taper Forum. Producer and performer: World Pride, Copenhagen 2021; Broadway in the Park Series, Mexico City; Secret Broadway, Australia featuring Shoshana Bean. Work with the A.R.T. in Cambridge includes Prometheus Bound, Cabaret, and Extraordinary. Multiple appearances at Carnegie Hall, Sydney Opera House, Lincoln Center, and London's West End.

Albums include compositions and arrangements for “Jake Shears” featuring the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, “Alan Cumming Sings Sappy Songs”, and John Cameron Mitchell's "New American Dream". Music Supervisor, producer, arranger, and composer, “Each and Every Day” documentary for HBO, dir. Alexandra Shiva. Composer of Ricki Lake Show theme (FOX), Macy's Parades (NBC), multiple film scores, specialty material for television. Multiple residences at Joe’s Pub, host of weekly Mondays in the Club with Lance, now in its seventh year at Club Cumming. Two original musicals currently in development.

Mr. Horne is a Steinway Artist, recipient of Jonathan Larson, Bistro, and ASCAP Awards, Helpmann Award Nominee, Interlochen graduate with BM, MM in Composition, The Juilliard School. Previously on faculty at Juilliard, NYU, and EAMA Paris. Currently on faculty at Syracuse University.

The You, Me, We Mission

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400

During the most recent "KidVenture" of Little Kids, Big Hearts, "Inclusion Matters with Ali Stroker," two kids — Zach and Scarlett — help to devise a brand new sport in the Land of Qook-a-lackas that EVERYONE can play TOGETHER called Quibble Launch.

Today, we're back with to challenge our listeners to participate in the You, Me, We Mission — which is all about figuring out new ways to play together!

🌟 First, Todd and Christy hear from Leo, who shares how he took on our last mission: The Mighty Mistakes Mission!

🌟 Then Todd and Christy introduce this month's special mission for kid listeners: The You, Me, We Mission!

Come back next week for a song/interview about inclusivity by our friend LANCE HORNE!

We'd love to hear from kid listeners about how you're taking on this month's mission! Please email your audio memos to podcast@playsparkler.org.

You can also visit us for videos of our podcast and more on our YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@LittleKidsBigHearts.

Find more info on the podcast on our website: https://playsparkler.org/inclusion/

Inclusion Matters With Ali Stroker

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400

On this kidventure episode, two kids — Scarlett and Zach — talk about their disabilities and share their experiences with inclusion (on inclusive playgrounds and in other contexts). As Scarlett explains, inclusion "means that everybody can play, no matter your disability or how you walk or how you roll or anything like that."

After a chat on Earth, the kids and Todd travel on the colors of the rainbow to the Land of Qook-a-lackas, where they meet a Qook-a-lacka friend, Quinnly, who is trying to figure out how the Qook-a-lackas and their new neighbors, the Link-a-doos, can play TOGETHER. The Qook-a-lacka's favorite sport, Quibble, is played on the ground with a big ball — while the Link-a-doos' favorite sport, Loop-a-launch, is played in the sky with a little bouncy ball. The kids and Todd help Quinnly to brainstorm a whole new game (Quibble Launch!), which has special rules and a two tier playing field that is perfect for the new neighbors to play together!

Little Kids, Big Hearts was THRILLED to be joined on this episode by guest star Ali Stroker, who plays the role of Quinnly.

Sound design and mixing is by Ryan Marth, and the ukulele music you hear is by actor and composer Bill English.

The Little Kids, Big Hearts team wants to say a big, public "THANK YOU" to Inclusion Matters by Shane's Inspiration, the amazing organization that helped us find the brilliant, insightful kids who appear on this episode, Scarlett and Zach. Inclusion Matters by Shane's Inspiration is an international non-profit organization that creates play, dignity and social equity for children with disabilities through inclusive playgrounds and education programs that unite children of all abilities. Scarlett and Zach played — and met "buddies" — on inclusive playgrounds created by this organization, which has built these sensory- and literacy-rich playgrounds in the US, as well as Mexico, Israel, Canada, Ecuador, Russia, Argentina, South Africa, Armenia, the Dominican Republic, and beyond. THANK YOU!!! Learn more about Inclusion Matters on its website: https://inclusionmatters.org/

Please learn more about the episode online at https://playsparkler.org/inclusion/

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

Interview: Making Music & Making Mistakes with Laurie Berkner

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Everyone — even the "queen of children's music" — makes mistakes on occasion!

We are thrilled to share an interview with Laurie Berkner, the bestselling, award-winning children's recording artist, about making music and making mistakes.

Laurie's albums have been bestsellers on a chart typically dominated by movie soundtracks and major label compilations. With more than 1 billion total streams, an average of more than 22 million monthly streams, more than 535 million YouTube channel views, and millions of CDs and DVDs sold, Laurie’s songs have become beloved classics for children worldwide. Her debut DVD, which went quadruple platinum, was the first-ever indie children’s music DVD to enter Billboard’s Top Music Video chart at #1. Laurie’s 16th album, A Laurie Berkner Halloween, was released in September 2024, and a Laurie Berkner Greatest Hits album will be out in May 2025.

A longtime fixture on TV’s Noggin and Universal Kids (formerly Sprout) channels, Laurie was the first recording artist to ever appear in a music video interstitial on Noggin and was featured in nearly all the episodes of the channel’s Jack’s Big Music Show. Laurie can also be heard in two seasons of the ten-chapter Audible Original series she created, Laurie Berkner’s Song & Story Kitchen.

Laurie has written the music and lyrics for three children's musicals and Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers has published a series of three picture books with Laurie, each based on one of her songs: We Are the Dinosaurs, Pillowland, and Monster Boogie.

In this interview on the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast, Laurie chats with LKBH host Todd Loyd about making mistakes: The theme of the month!

Storytime: A Mistake Takes Root

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400

In this original fictional story set in the Land of Qook-a-lackas, we learn the origin story of the qook-a-melos, one of the most popular treats in the Land.

It turns out that the qook-a-melo tree stemmed from a MISTAKE...and that mistakes can actually help us to create great things! As Professor Quomelo — the accidental inventor — says, "Trust in yourself, trust in the process, and have the courage to make mistakes!"

What great things will YOU dream up if YOU make more mistakes?

"A Mistake Takes Root" is read by our host, Todd Loyd, who is a teacher in New York City who LOVES a good storytime, along with Christy Pusz Decatur, the LKBH creative producer.

This original story by the team at Little Kids, Big Hearts shares important lessons about the importance of making mistakes. Find resources on mistakes — the focus this month — from LKBH online at: https://playsparkler.org/mistakes/

VISIT and subscribe to our YouTube Channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@LittleKidsBigHearts

#story #storytime #mistakes #parenting

Mighty Mistakes Mission & Song

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400

During the most recent "kidventure" of Little Kids, Big Hearts, "The Magic of Mistakes with Terence Archie," three kids — Layla, Liam, and Ariel — talk about the mistakes they've made and visit the Land of Qook-a-lackas to visit with a friend there, Quippin, who needs help preparing for the Perfectly Imperfect Expo. The whole point: Celebrating mistakes!

Today, we're back with to challenge our listeners to participate in the Mighty Mistakes Mission!

🌟 First, Todd and Christy hear from Raleigh and Clover, who share how they took on our last mission: Operation Help Out!

🌟 Then Todd and Christy introduce this month's special mission for kid listeners: Mighty Mistake Mission!

🌟 Finally, we share a song about making mistakes by none other than LAURIE BERKNER, "I'm Not Perfect." It's a perfect song about making mistakes and we're so happy that Laurie was willing to share it as part of LKBH.

Come back later this month for a whole INTERVIEW with Laurie Berkner (the Taylor Swift of kids' music!) focused on the theme of the month: the magic of mistakes.

We'd love to hear from kid listeners about how you're taking on this month's mission! Please email your audio memos to podcast@playsparkler.org.

You can also visit us for videos of our podcast and more on our YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@LittleKidsBigHearts.

Find more info on the podcast on our website: https://playsparkler.org/mistakes/

The Magic of Mistakes with Terence Archie

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0500

On this episode, three kids — Layla (11), Liam (11), and Ariel (10)— talk about mistakes and learn that mistakes aren't just problems to fix; they're moments that can actually help us learn and create!

The three guest kids talk about mistakes they've made and then travel with LKBH host Todd Loyd to the Land of Qook-a-lackas on magical air skates to help a Qook-a-lacka friend, Quippin, prepare for the Perfectly Imperfect Expo. The Perfectly Imperfect Expo is a big event here in the Land of Qook-a-lackas — all about trying new things, even when they feel tricky. It’s a place where everyone walks, flies, or scoots around our big Qooka-Expo Center near the Qook-a-lacka Seaport to see the newest innovations in mistake-making. And at every single booth, attendees get a chance to make mistakes and discover something wonderful in the process.

Quippin's friends are stranded on their way home from a Quibble Match, so the kids and Todd pitch in to help Quippin record the proposal for the selection committee.

🎥 First they draw cars with their eyes closed!

🎥 Then they turn their car mistakes into other creations!

🎥 Then they try saying tricky "word wobblers"

🎥 They finish up the proposal with a speed round of mistakes, during which they share as many mistakes they can think of

"It's like completely normal to make mistakes because no one can be perfect," explained Liam.

Our guest star on this episode is Terence Archie, who plays the role of Quippin. Terence is an actor whose Broadway credits include Company, Kiss Me, Kate, Rocky, and Ragtime. He's also appeared in a long list of shows off-Broadway, in regional theaters, and on TV.

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/mistakes/

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

"Helping" Interview with Firefighter John Louthan

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In our recent episode "Big Hearts in Tough Times: LA Kids Discuss the Fires," we talked with four LA kids about their experiences and feelings during the fires in Los Angeles. Today, we're back with a special interview with a real-life firefighter, John Louthan. John is a fireman for FDNY Engine Company 5 in New York City. He's been fighting fires for about two decades. He started his career as an emergency medical technician and then became a paramedic before becoming a firefighter.

Learn from John what it's like to fight fires: Is it really what we read in our favorite children's books about fighting fires? Also learn about John's experiences and feelings, and get tips to help your family plan for and keep safe during fires.

Find episode resources on our website: https://playsparkler.org/hardtimes

Storytime: New Skies for Lyra

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this original fictional story set in the Land of Qook-a-lackas, we learn the "history" of the Great Link-a-doo Flood, through the lens of Lyra — a little Link-a-deedle. In the story, Lyra and all the students at the Treetop School survive the Great Link-a-doo Flood and then escape with their parents to the Land of Qook-a-lackas where they are welcomed by the Qook-a-lackas. Lyra learns to cope — and move forward — with help from friends, neighbors, songs, and traditions.

"New Skies for Lyra" is read by our amazing host, Todd Loyd, who is a teacher in New York City who LOVES a good storytime, along with Christy Pusz Decatur, the LKBH creative director, and Rose, alumna of the podcast.

This original story by the team at Little Kids, Big Hearts shares important lessons about hope and resilience.

We are excited to share this original fictional story with you!

Find fairness resources from LKBH online at: https://playsparkler.org/hardtimes/

VISIT and subscribe to our YouTube Channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@LittleKidsBigHearts

#story #storytime #resilience

Operation Help Out Mission and Song

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

During the most recent "kidventure" of Little Kids, Big Hearts, "Big Hearts in Tough Times: LA Kids Discuss the Fires," four LA Kids — Amicko, Kiaan, Kaveer, and Cleo — share their experiences and feelings related to the wildfires. They talk about the family, friends, and community helpers who have helped them to get through this tough time.

Today, we're back to challenge our listeners to participate in Operation Help Out. What are ways WE can each get out there and help — in big ways or small — and make the world a better place?

Please share your family's mission with a few words or a picture! You can share on instagram (@little_kids_big_hearts_podcast), facebook (@LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcast), or just email us: podcast@playsparkler.org. We'd love to share your mission on our next LKBH mission episode.

Following the MISSION, turn up the volume and sing/dance along to a brand-new Little Kids, Big Hearts original song: Good Morning Song! It's inspired by the good morning song that Linkala talked about in our "Big Hearts in Tough Times" episode.

The song is written and performed by amazing educator/composer Benjamin Weiner.

Learn more online at: playsparkler.org/hardtimes

Big Hearts in Tough Times: LA Kids Discuss the Fires

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Starting the second week of January 2025, Los Angeles, CA has been grappling with unprecedented wildfires, which roared through the city, powered by strong winds and dry conditions. Hundreds of thousands of people had to evacuate their homes as firefighters battled the wildfires.

In this special episode of Little Kids, Big Hearts, four LA Kids — Amicko, Kiaan, Kaveer, and Cleo — share their experiences and feelings related to the wildfires.

They travel with Little Kids, Big Hearts host Todd Loyd to the Land-of-Qook-a-lackas where they visit with a Link-a-doo friend, Linkala, who fled the Isle of Link-a-doo in the Great Link-a-Doo Flood. Linkala shares memories and feelings — as well as some useful ways to cope with disasters and get through hard times — and answers the kids' questions about surviving similar disasters.

Linkala is played by Dr. Cara Spitalewitz, a clinical psychologist who works with children and adolescents in New York City. Cara previously was a supervising psychologist at Bellevue Hospital Center and a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at NYU School of Medicine. She holds a B.A. from Columbia University, an Ed.M. in Human Development & Psychology from Harvard University, and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Long Island University-Brooklyn. She completed an APA-accredited Clinical Internship at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine and her postdoctoral training at Bellevue Hospital Center.

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 playsparkler.org/hardtimes.

Do you know of a little kid, with a big heart who would be interested in being a guest on our podcast? Please learn more here: https://playsparkler.org/participate-on-our-podcast/

Interview: Fairness with Judge Gabriel Sanchez

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

On our episode about fairness — "Fairness with Vella Lovell and Meredith Holzman" — three kids (Bodhi, Aubrey, and Will) helped two arguing Qook-a-lackas through a process of “qook-a-lation.” They listened to both sides of the argument, asked some questions, and then shared some ideas to help the Qook-a-lackas find a fair solution.

Today, Little Kids, Big Hearts is thrilled to share an interview diving into fairness with someone who knows A LOT about qook-a-lation: Judge Gabriel P. Sanchez, who has served as a United States circuit judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit since 2022.

Our host, Todd Loyd chats with Judge Sanchez about what fairness is and moments in his life when he's learned about fairness. He shares tips for little kids with big hearts who want to follow in his footsteps and become real-life judges — and also tips on how we can bring more fairness to our classrooms and playgrounds today.

Judge Sanchez was nominated by President Biden and confirmed by the Senate in 2022 — an exciting first for our podcast! He's based in San Francisco, but hears cases across California, Arizona, Alaska, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. Judge Sanchez has had a remarkable career advocating for criminal justice reform, public safety, and civil rights, while also serving as a pro bono supporter of farm workers’ rights.

Storytime: The Qook-a-lackas' Absolutely Exactly Everything Equal Day

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

The Fairness Quest Mission & Song

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

During the most recent adventure of Little Kids, Big Hearts, "Fairness with Vella Lovell and Meredith Holzman," three kids — Bodhi, Aubrey, and Will — travel with LKBH host Todd Loyd to the Land of Qook-a-lackas to help two Qook-a-lacka friends "qook-a-late" to retsore fairness to the Land.

Today, we're back to challenge our listeners to go on their own FAIRNESS QUEST, inspired by the episode and the words/actions of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. — whose legacy of justice, equality, and human rights we celebrated this week. Todd and LKBH Producer Christy Pusz Decatur issue our first-ever challenge our listeners to (1) notice something that seems unfair, (2) think about ways to help, and then (3) take action to help someone else feel included, valued, or supported. This is our first-ever challenge episode, and we'd be overjoyed if our listeners could take a moment to share how their families interpreted the fairness quest with a few words or a picture! You can share on instagram (@little_kids_big_hearts_podcast), facebook (@LittleKidsBigHeartsPodcast), or just email us: podcast@playsparkler.org.

Following the MISSION, turn up the volume and sing/dance along to a brand-new Little Kids, Big Hearts original song: When Something's Unfair.

It's written by amazing educator/composer Benjamin Weiner and performed with Benjamin PLUS Vella Lovell, who played Principal Quella in our fairness episode. Vella currently appears on the Fox comedy Animal Control alongside Joel McHale as “Emily.” Other credits include Mr. Mayor, Crazy Ex Girlfriend, Accused, A Clüsterfünke Christmas, She Ra And the Princesses of Power, Kiff, The Big Sick, Dollface, Girls, Younger, Grace and Frankie, As We See It, Your Place or Mine. On the stage, Vella has appeared in plays at The Geffen Playhouse, Yale Rep, The Public Theater and Williamstown Theatre Festival. She graduated from @nyutisch and @juilliardschool.

Learn more online at: https://playsparkler.org/fairness/

Fairness with Vella Lovell and Meredith Holzman

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Fairness has played a pivotal role throughout history, with the pursuit of equality and justice helping to shape the world that we live in today. Fairness also plays out in our everyday lives and in the lives of children as they grapple with real-life moments that feel “unfair.” "Fairness" in the context of social and emotional development refers to a child's growing ability to treat others equitably and considering the needs and perspectives of others. The idea of “fairness” pops up in things like taking turns, sharing, and making decisions.

In this episode, three 6-8 year old children, Bodhi, Aubrey, and Will, visit with LKBH host Todd Loyd to talk about fairness. They then travel to the Land of Qook-a-lackas to help two Qook-a-lacka friends — Principal Quella and Korrik, the President of the Qook-a-berry Preservation Society — to restore fairness to the Land through a process of “qook-a-lation.” The kids listen to both sides of a conflict, ask questions, and then suggest fair solutions.

Our guest stars on this episode are Vella Lovell, who plays the role of Principal Quella and Meredith Holzman, who plays the role of the President of the Qook-a-berry Preservation Society, Korrik.

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 playsparkler.org.

Song & Interview: I’m Grateful by Benjamin Weiner

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Last week, we joined with three kids — Roxy, Everly, and Charlie — who helped us explore the big idea of gratitude.

Now, in this special new episode, our friend Benjamin Weiner, an educator and musician, shares the brand new song he created based on the words about gratitude that the children shared in "Gratitude PowerUp."

Host Todd Loyd chats with Benjamin about his process and inspiration ... and then we hear the new song, "I'm Grateful."

Benjamin taught young children in Brooklyn for a decade before becoming a full time writer and composer. Based in Brooklyn, New York, Benjamin is currently writing for Rosie’s Rules on PBS and Vida the Vet on Netflix. He’s written dozens of TV and podcast episodes for Nickelodeon, including the premiere of the new Dora series on Paramount+. His work has been featured by Tribeca Film Festival, the Today Show, and his kids music as “Princess Backpack and Benjamin” has been heard on kids radio stations worldwide. Learn more: www.BenjaminWeiner.com and www.PrincessBackpack.com.

Learn more and see the music video at at playsparkler.org/podcast.

Gratitude PowerUp with Lauren Blumenfeld

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Gratitude can be a big, abstract idea for most young children — but it is important! Feeling grateful can help to foster emotional wellbeing and resilience; it can reduce stress and anxiety, improve relationships, and promote a sense of belonging.

Welcome to Season 4 of Little Kids, Big Hearts! We are SO excited to spend more time with you exploring important themes related to children's social and emotional development.

In this new episode of Little Kids, Big Hearts, three children (Charlie, Roxy, and Everly) discuss gratitude and what gratitude feels like. They then journey to the Land of Qook-a-lackas aboard magical hoverboards 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.

Our guest star is Lauren Blumenfeld, an actor, writer, and filmmaker, who has a long list of credits on stage and in movies and TV. Lauren's favorite theatre credits include POTUS (The Geffen Playhouse), The Assembled Parties (Broadway), We Are Proud To Present...(Soho Rep), Sailor Man (NYC Fringe Award) and numerous productions at Ars Nova. Lauren has performed abroad at The Old Vic (London) and regionally at The Williamstown Theatre Festival, The Old Globe (San Diego), The Pittsburgh Public, and The Virginia Stage Company. She was a series regular on the satirical comedy Nightcap and has played recurring roles on The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Kevin (Probably) Saves the World, Limitless, Unforgettable, Doubt, Deadbeat, and Archibald’s Next Big Thing (Netflix). Lauren's shorts have played in festivals worldwide, including SXSW and SIFF. Learn more online.

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 playsparkler.org/gratitude-powerup-with-lauren-blumenfeld/

Interview: Telling Stories that Matter with Author/Illustrator Todd Parr

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 08:00:00 -0400

In this special interview episode, host Todd Loyd interviews another Todd — the legendary author/illustrator of more than 50 children's books TODD PARR.

Todd Parr is a three-time New York Times bestselling author and illustrator of more than 50 books for children, including The Thankful Book, The Earth Book and The I LOVE YOU Book, as well as The Kindness Book and the recently released The Spring Book and The Activity Book, all from Little, Brown Books for Young Readers.

He has inspired and empowered children around the world with simple, hopeful and powerful messages such as “be kind,” “love yourself,” and “be who you are,” all set with vibrant images utilizing eye-catching primary colors. His books have received numerous awards and are available in nearly 20 languages. He also is the co-creator of the popular three-time Daytime Emmy©-nominated animated TV series, ToddWorld with Gerry Renert of SupperTime Entertainment. Several short
films for Sesame Street have been based on Todd’s work.

A flight attendant before becoming a full-time author/illustrator, Todd’s first book, The Okay Book, was published in 1999. Todd devotes time to numerous philanthropic causes supporting pet adoption, children’s hunger, health, and literacy. He is a frequent reader and fund-raiser for The Ronald McDonald House, and he also currently serves on the board of directors for the Virginia Children’s Book Festival.

This interview — which follows the "Magic of Stories" episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast — helps parents/caregivers learn from one of the most influential author/illustrators of children's books of our time. They discuss what inspires his books — as well as how his books make an impact on young children around the world.

Learn more at playpsarkler.org/podcast

#interview #bonus

The Magic of Stories with Nick Blaemire

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Stories are magical! They are gateways to new people, places, and ideas ... and they help children to build empathy and understanding — allowing them to see the world from different perspectives. As kids step into the roles of different characters, they gain insights into emotions, relationships, and the diverse experiences that make up our shared world. This helps them grow into compassionate and thoughtful individuals! Stories also have MANY other amazing powers — like helping children build language and literacy skills and helping to grow the bond between parents and children.

In this episode of Little Kids, Big Hearts — The Magic of Stories — three children (Olivia, Anusha, and Moses) explore the power of stories. They discuss some of their favorite stories and characters and then they travel to the Land of Qook-a-lackas to help a Qook-a-lacka friend, Quimmel, write a story that they title "The Cat Gets Wet" to meet an upcoming deadline for the Qook-a-lacka Summer Story Festival!

The guest star in this episode is Nick Blaemire, a writer, actor, and director based in Brooklyn, NY. Fun fact: at 23, Nick became the youngest person to ever have written a Broadway musical (Glory Days) while also performing in another Broadway musical (Cry-Baby). He has since written six more original musicals, and he has a long list of acting credits on Broadway, Off Broadway, and nationally, as well as roles on TV and film. He has also released three EPs of original songs.

The original song in the episode, "Cat Gets Wet," was written by educator/composer Benjamin Weiner — based on the story that Olivia, Anusha, and Moses told during the episode — and performed by our multitalented podcast host, Todd Loyd.

Sound design and mixing is by Ahmed Ashour, and the ukulele music you hear is by actor and composer Bill English.

Building Resilience with Marc Grapey

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 10:00:00 -0400

In this episode three children, Donovan, Layla, and Ruby, explore the idea of resilience — being able to move through the hard things we face and bounce back or recover afterward. They share times they have had to practice resilience, and then they help a Link-a-deedle friend, LaLeek, who lives in the Land of Qook-a-lackas, learn about resilience.

The guest star in this episode is Marc Grapey, an actor, director, writer and producer, with credits on stage, as well as in movies and TV. Marc has been a fixture of the Chicago Theatre community for the last 25 years, often appearing at Victory Gardens, The Goodman, Steppenwolf, and Writer’s Theatre. He made his Broadway debut in 2005 opposite Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick in the hit revival of Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple. His numerous films include SuperBad, Adventureland, The Day Trippers, While You Were Sleeping, At Any Price, Keeping up with the Joneses, and the upcoming Steven Spielberg produced Captive State. He has made over 60 guest appearances on television.

The original song in the episode, "On With The Show," was written and performed by educator/composer Benjamin Weiner.

Sound design and mixing is by Ahmed Ashour, and the ukulele music you hear is by actor and composer Bill English.

Find more resources and activities to keep the learning going online at https://playsparkler.org/little-kids-big-hearts-resilience/.

Interview: Exploring "Learning Differences" with Oliver, 12, and Caesar Samayoa from "How to Dance in Ohio"

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0400

During the most recent episode of Little Kids, Big Hearts, "Celebrating Learning Differences with Q. Smith," one of our kid guests, Oliver, mentioned how meaningful it was to him to see How to Dance in Ohio on Broadway. How to Dance in Ohio is a new musical based on a true story about Dr. Emilio Amigo helping a group of autistic high school students prepare for a formal end-of-year dance.

In this special interview, Oliver joins Little Kids, Big Hearts host Todd Loyd to interview Caesar Samayoa, who played the role of Dr. Amigo in the Broadway production.

Cesar talks about the history-making show — in which autistic actors played the roles of the autistic characters — and shares inspiration and insight that we hope will help our audience dive in deeper to some of the issues we discussed in our learning differences episode.

Caesar Samayoa has been seen on Broadway, off Broadway, and in regional theaters, as well as on TV. In addition to How to Dance in Ohio, Caesar's Broadway credits include: Come From Away, Sister Act, The Pee Wee Herman Show. Select off-Broadway includes Love's Labour's Lost (Delacorte Theater) and Shakespeare's R&J, Bernstein's Mass (Carnegie Hall).

Learn more online at: https://playsparkler.org/little-kids-big-hearts-learning-differences/

Celebrating Learning Differences with Q. Smith

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 08:00:00 -0400

In the United States, about 15% of students receive special education or related services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Learning differences aren’t all alike, but they can all affect how people process, store, and retrieve information — and they can have an impact on many parts of life, from learning to memory to how people express themselves and how people develop relationships with one another.

In this episode, Todd talks with four children — Reese, Willa-Kate, Oliver, and Alessio — all of whom have diagnosed learning differences. They share their experiences and feelings related to their learning differences and go on a journey to the Land of Qook-a-lackas to help a Qook-a-lacka friend, Professor Kimpton, reconsider how to support a Qook-a-leekie student. This episode is for ALL children and families. It can help them to understand — and rethink — their own differences and their friends’ and classmates’ differences. It can also help children and families think of strategies they can use to persevere through challenges.

The guest star in this episode is Q. Smith, a Broadway actor and a passionate educator. Q. created the role of Hannah and others in the Tony Award winning musical Come From Away. She is also in the film version on AppleTV+. Q. has toured with the North American Broadway show A Night With Janis Joplin, playing the roles of Aretha Franklin and Nina Simone. Before Come From Away, Q. closed the Broadway production of Mary Poppins. She was the first African American to have a leading role in the history of Mary Poppins. (Read Q.'s full bio on our website.)

The original song in the episode, "Super Superpower," was written by educator/composer Benjamin Weiner and performed by Q. Smith.

Sound design and mixing is by Ahmed Ashour, and the ukulele music you hear is by actor and composer Bill English.

Find more resources and activities to keep the learning going online at https://playsparkler.org/little-kids-big-hearts-learning-differences/.

Let's Take Responsibility with Natalie Gold

Fri, 10 May 2024 08:00:00 -0400

Taking responsibility is an important part of social and emotional learning. When children take responsibility for their words and actions, acknowledge their mistakes, and help others in their community, they are building empathy, independence, and other important skills.

In this episode, three children (Leo, Edie, and Aiden) talk about responsibility and then help Quazzilyn (a Qook-a-lacka friend) to rally the Qook-a-lackas to take responsibility and save their gummy bear crops!

The guest star in this episode is Natalie Gold, an actress who has appeared in film, television, and stage productions. She's currently playing Rachael in APPROPRIATE on Broadway.

The original song in the episode, "Put Up My Hand," was written and performed by educator/composer Benjamin Weiner.

Sound design and mixing is by Ahmed Ashour, and the ukulele music you hear is by actor and composer Bill English.

Find more resources and activities to keep the learning going online at https://playsparkler.org/responsibility.

Special Reimagined Episode: What Can You Do With Big Feelings?

Fri, 03 May 2024 08:00:00 -0400

What do you do when you're feeling angry or sad, or when you're facing something new and scary? In this special episode — which is reimagined and reworked from a Season 1 episode of Little Kids, Big Hearts — Todd and his puppet friend Rainbow join four kids (Anaya, Eleanor, Raffaele, and Wilder) to explore big feelings, where they come from, and what to do with them.

At the end of the episode, dance along to "Dance Your Feelings," an original song written and performed by educator/composer/performer extraordinaire Benjamin Weiner.

The new sound design and mixing is by Ahmed Ashour. Thank you also to Ryan Allais for his original sound design of the episode in Season 1! The ukulele music you hear in the background is by Royer Bockus. Wow! It's been a LONG time!

Find more resources and activities to keep the learning going online at https://playsparkler.org/what-can-you-do-with-big-feelings.

Grandparent Relationships

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Grandparents, or older friends and family members, can play pivotal roles in children's lives, acting as caregivers, mentors, and friends. Whether grandparents live in a child’s neighborhood or far away, the love and emotional support they provide can significantly contribute to the healthy social and emotional growth of their grandchildren.

In this episode, Todd interviews his own 96-year-old grandmother, as well as his sister and niece about their family memories and relationships. He then chats with two other grandparent-grandkid duos: Brenda and her granddaughter Kailah, followed by Marvin and his granddaughter Melanie.

Sound design and mixing is by Ahmed Ashour, and the ukulele music you hear is by actor and composer Bill English.

Find more resources and activities to keep the learning going online at https://playsparkler.org/grandparentrelationships.

Bonus: Boundaries Interview with Ana Cruz Kayne and Michael Cruz Kayne

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Last week, we released an episode about BOUNDARIES — the limits and rules we set for ourselves within relationships. Today, we're excited to release a bonus interview with the guest stars of the episode, Ana Cruz Kayne and Michael Cruz Kayne. Ana and Michael are siblings in real life ... so they know A LOT about the topic of boundaries.

Ana is an actress and writer, known for her performances in Barbie (2023), Little Women (2019), Jerry & Marge Go Large (2022), Painkiller (TV 2023), and Another Earth (2011). Michael is a Peabody and WGA Award winner, and a four-time Emmy nominee. He is currently a writer for the Late Show with Stephen Colbert. As a stand-up and actor, he has been seen on Late Night with Seth Meyers, Severance, High Maintenance, and more. His one-man show, Sorry For Your Loss, was recorded by Audible and named among the Best of Audible 2023. He lives in Brooklyn with his wife and kids.

This season, in addition to our regular episodes with and for kids, we are including bonus interviews with luminaries like Michael and Ana to dive into the social and emotional topics we explore on the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast. We hope parents and caregivers love ❤️ these conversations as much as we do.

Find more resources and activities to keep the learning going online at playsparkler.org/podcast.

Boundaries with Michael Cruz Kayne and Ana Cruz Kayne

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Helping children establish boundaries is important for developing friendships and maintaining positive social interactions. Boundaries help people set limits for themselves and honor limits set by others.

In "Boundaries," three eight- and nine-year-old kids (Olivia, Izzy, and Wynter) define and discuss boundaries and help Qook-a-leekie and Link-a-deedle friends learn the importance of boundaries. They discover that understanding someone else’s boundaries requires empathy, the ability to recognize others’ feelings...and that takes practice.

The role of Qwee-vee the Qook-a-leekie is played by Ana Cruz Kayne and the role of Lexton the Link-a-deedle is played by Michael Cruz Kayne. Ana and Michael are siblings in real life, so they know a thing or two about boundaries. Ana is an actress and writer, known for her performances in Barbie (2023), Little Women (2019), Jerry & Marge Go Large (2022), Painkiller (TV 2023), and Another Earth (2011). Michael is a Peabody and WGA Award winner, and a four-time Emmy nominee. He is currently a writer for the Late Show with Stephen Colbert. As a stand-up and actor, he has been seen on Late Night with Seth Meyers, Severance, High Maintenance, and more. His one-man show, Sorry For Your Loss, was recorded by Audible and named among the Best of Audible 2023. He lives in Brooklyn with his wife and kids. Read more about Ana and Michael on our website.

The original song, "I've Got Boundaries" is written by educator/composer Benjamin Weiner and performed by Michael Cruz Kayne.

Sound design and mixing is by Ahmed Ashour, and the ukulele music you hear is by actor and composer Bill English.

Find more resources and activities to keep the learning going online at https://playsparkler.org/boundaries.

Hopes & Dreams With Jolly Abraham

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0500

In "Hopes & Dreams," three kids (Levi, Christine, and Ariel) reflect on the new things we have learned, the friendships we have formed, and the challenges we have faced in the past year — and what we are excited to learn and do in the year ahead. The children also discuss the concept of "letting go" of the feelings and experiences that we don't wish to carry with us into the new year.

The kids and host Todd Loyd travel on giant snowflakes to the Land of Qook-a-lackas where they meet Todd's Qook-a-lacka friend Qweston, played by Jolly Abraham, and participate in the Qook-a-lacka tradition of Moon Day, where they help to "send off" the old moon and "welcome" the new moon.

The original song, "Under the New Moon" that Qweston sings in the Land is written by educator/composer Benjamin Weiner (based on the children's words during the episode) and performed by Jolly Abraham.

Bonus: Belonging Interview with Hip-Hop Pioneer Darryl "DMC" McDaniels

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0500

On last week's episode, we explored "Belonging" — being who you are and being accepted and embraced for who you are.

In this special bonus interview, we continue to explore this idea. Little Kids, Big Hearts host Todd Loyd interviews hip-hop pioneer Darryl "DMC" McDaniels, an American rapper and founding member of Run DMC. In addition to winning many awards and being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (2009), Darryl recently wrote a children's book, "Darryl's Dream" (2022) about his experience as a third grader, embracing his creativity and confidence and finding his voice. It's all about the topic of belonging!

This season, in addition to our regular episodes with and for kids, we are including bonus interviews with luminaries like Darryl to dive into the social and emotional topics we explore on the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast. We hope parents and caregivers love ❤️ these conversations as much as we do.

Find more resources and activities to keep the learning going online at playsparkler.org/podcast.

We Belong — With Alexis Michelle

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Belonging — being who you are and being accepted and embraced for who you are — is important for children and for all people.

In this episode four kids (Providence, River, Valencia, and Yonatan) discuss what it means to belong — and how to grow feelings of belonging. The kids and Todd then go on an imaginary journey to the Land of Qook-a-lackas, where they meet with a Qook-a-lacka named Quinnie, who needs help figuring out how to help the Link-a-doos, who are coming to the Land as refugees after a superstorm hit their Island.

On this episode, the role of Quinnie the Qook-a-lacka is played by Alexis Michelle. Alexis Michelle is a performer from New York City, most recently seen on RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 8 (Paramount), finishing in the top 4!

The original song in the episode, "Just as You Are!" is written and performed by composer and educator Benjamin Weiner.

Sound design and mixing is by Ahmed Ashour, and the ukulele music you hear is by actor and composer Bill English.

Find more resources and activities to keep the learning going online at playsparkler.org/podcast.

Bonus: Imagination Interview with "Not a Box" Author/Illustrator, Antoinette Portis

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0500

On last week's episode, "Imagination Time!," we flexed our imagination muscles with three kids — Shaelan, Sameia and Hunter. After recording, our host — Todd Loyd — was lucky to explore the power of imagination with Antoinette Portis, the award winning author/illustrator of "Not a Box" and many other modern classics in children's picture books.

This conversation with Antoinette will help parents and caregivers learn more about where imagination and inspiration come from. It will help them think about how to learn FROM kids about using their imaginations to change the world.

This season, in addition to our regular episodes with and for kids, we are including bonus interviews with luminaries like Antoinette to dive into the social and emotional topics we explore on Little Kids, Big Hearts. We hope parents and caregivers love ❤️ these conversations as much as we do.

Antoinette made her picture-book debut with the New York Times best-selling "Not A Box," an American Library Association Seuss Geisel Honor book, and one of the New York Times Ten Best Illustrated Books of the Year. She was a recipient of the 2010 Sendak Fellowship. Antoinette got a BFA at the UCLA School of Fine Arts and then spent years in the world of design and advertising. She was a creative director, then a VP, at Disney before she took a flying leap to pursue her sixth-grade dream of writing and illustrating picture books.

Find more resources and activities to keep the learning going online at playsparkler.org/podcast.

Imagination Time! — With Nadiyah Dorsey

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0400

Using our imaginations might seem like a basic part of childhood, but imagination plays an important role in childhood and in life: it builds creativity and independence, social and problem-solving skills, teamwork and empathy.

In this episode — the first in Season 3! — three kids (Shaelan, Sameia and Hunter) discuss the power of imagination with host Todd Loyd. 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 for the Qook-a-leekies.

On this episode, the role of the Mayor is played by Nadiyah Dorsey, a veteran of stage and screen. The original song, "You Can Use Your Imagination!" is written and mixed by composer and educator Benjamin Weiner. Sound design and mixing is by Ahmed Ashour, and the ukulele music you hear is by actor and composer Bill English.

Find more resources and activities to keep the learning going online at playsparkler.org/podcast.

Calm Down at Camp Quinder-Calm (World Mental Health Day)

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0400

In honor of World Mental Health Day, we wanted to share the visualization and song that Quinlan shared in the Land of Qook-a-lackas during our August episode, "The Key to Calming Down." Research shows that techniques like what we practiced in the Land help to promote mental health, and we wanted to share this special visualization so that your family can use it to feel calm, safe, and peaceful.

The role of Quinlan is played by Rebecca Naomi Jones, an American actress and singer best known for her performances in the Broadway rock musicals Passing Strange, American Idiot, and Hedwig and the Angry Inch. She was also the first woman of color to play Laurey in Oklahoma! on Broadway and starred in As You Like It in NYC's Shakespeare in the Park.

The original song, "I Have the Key," which Quinlan shares with the children at the end of the visualization, was composed by Benjamin Weiner, a NYC-based writer, composer, and educator.

Thank you to Dr. Cara Spitalewitz who advised us on the mediation that Quinlan leads. Cara is a clinical psychologist who works with children and an assistant clinical professor at Columbia University Medical Center.

Find extras and educator resources at playsparkler.org/podcast.

Trying New Things (2023 Signal Awards Finalist)

Sat, 30 Sep 2023 13:00:00 -0400

Little Kids, Big Hearts just became a finalist in the Signal Awards! Before Oct. 5, you — OUR LISTENERS — can do us a BIG (and big hearted ❤️) favor by voting for us in the Signal Listener's Choice Awards. It's easy: Just click here and vote for Little Kids, Big Hearts. We're honored to be picked from 1000s of podcasts to be a finalist — and to be in such amazing company!

The episode that was selected by the Signal jury as a finalist was our episode about trying new things. Have a listen...and then — if you love it as much as we do — please consider voting for us ASAP! Thank you!

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In this episode of Little Kids, Big Hearts, Todd talks with River, Taylor, and Leo about trying new things. They go on an imaginary journey to the Land of Qook-a-Lackas where they meet Crayton the Dragon, who's learning how to fly!

Please find more info and educational extension activities online at playsparkler.org/podcast. These extension activities will help you to support children (Pre-K to Grade 3) as they share their feelings about what it is like when they try new things and build persistence and resilience.

Two special guests join us in this episode, and we are so grateful to them:

Christine Pedi plays the role of Crayton the Dragon. She is a television and theater comedic actress, Drama Desk nominee for FORBIDDEN BROADWAY, Sirius XM radio personality "Lady of a Thousand Voices" and Award-Winning Cabaret Performer. On Broadway, she appeared in CHICAGO as Mama Morton, LITTLE ME with Martin Short and Faith Prince, directed by Rob Marshall, and in Eric Bogosian's TALK RADIO with Liev Schreiber, directed by Robert Falls.

The ukulele music and the original song "Try" are written and performed by Bill English. Bill is an actor, musician, and voiceover artist based in NYC who has appeared on Broadway in Twentieth Century starring Alec Baldwin and Anne Heche and Anything Goes with Sutton Foster and Joel Grey. TV credits include The Good Wife, Madam Secretary, Elementary, Cavemen, Family Guy, and more.

Find extras and educator resources at playsparkler.org/podcast.

The Key to Calming Down With Rebecca Naomi Jones

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 10:00:00 -0400

In "The Key to Calming Down," 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, an American actress and singer best known for her performances in the Broadway rock musicals Passing Strange, American Idiot, and Hedwig and the Angry Inch. She was also the first woman of color to play Laurey in Oklahoma! on Broadway and starred in As You Like It in NYC's Shakespeare in the Park.

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.

The ukulele music in the episode is written and performed by Bill English. Bill is an actor, musician, and voiceover artist based in NYC.

Thank you to Dr. Cara Spitalewitz who advised us on the mediation that Quinlan leads in the episode. Cara is a clinical psychologist who works with children and an assistant clinical professor at Columbia University Medical Center.

Thank you to Ahmed Ashour, who made this episode and all the episodes of Season 2 of our podcast sound amazing — and to the rest of the team who put this episode and the season together.

Find extras and educator resources at playsparkler.org/podcast.

Moving Time With Amir Arison

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 08:00:00 -0400

In "Moving Time," three kids with significant experience moving from country to country and home to home — Aurelia, Cris, and Henry — join host Todd Loyd to discuss their moves and to share some of the feelings they had before, during, and after moving. The kids and Todd then go on a journey to the Land of Qook-a-lackas to help a Qook-a-lacka friend, Kahmar, who's worried about how their Qook-a-leekies will cope with a big upcoming move.

The role of Kahmar is played by Amir Arison, an American actor, director, and producer, best known for his work as FBI tech expert Aram Mojtabai on NBC's The Blacklist for ten seasons. Last year, Amir starred in The Kite Runner on Broadway.

The role of the Qook-a-lacka Song Healer, Quasnick, is played by Benjamin Weiner, a composer and educator. The original song in the episode, "A Little Bit Better," was created (live!) by Benjamin with help from the three kid guests (Aurelia, Cris, and Henry), plus Amir.

The ukulele music in the episode is written and performed by Bill English. Bill is an actor, musician, and voiceover artist based in NYC.

Find extras and educator resources at playsparkler.org/podcast.

Winning & Losing With Bridget Regan

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 08:00:00 -0400

In "Winning & Losing," three kids who know a lot about winning and losing — Aiden (a chess player), Eliza (a soccer player), and Willa (a gymnast) — join host Todd Loyd to discuss winning and losing and to go on a journey to the Land of Qook-a-lackas to help a qook-a-leekie, Quinby, rethink a recent run of quibble losses.

The role of Quinby is played by Bridget Regan, an actor and producer. Her film credits include John Wick with Keanu Reeves, Devil’s Gate opposite Milo Ventimiglia, HBO’s The Leisure Class, The Best and the Brightest alongside Neal Patrick Harris, Sex and the City, Weak, The Babysitters and Blinders and the upcoming Canvas opposite Joanne Kelly and the queer rom-com Things Like This. In television, she presently appears on The Company You Keep, The Winchesters and The Rookie. She has MANY other TV credits. Originally from Carlsbad, California, Regan relocated to New York City to pursue her acting career. She originated the role of Cecile Leroux in the Broadway comedy Is He Dead opposite Norbert Leo Butz written by Mark Twain, adapted by David Ives and directed by Michael Blakemore. Regan has produced multiple productions Off Broadway and at the iconic LaMaMa Theater of the electro pop queer musical Camp Wanatachi written by Natalie Weiss and Bekah Brunstetter. She now has a feature film of of Camp Wantatachi in development with Zadan Meron Productions.

The original song “Do Your Best” and ukulele music in the episode is written and performed by Bill English. Bill is an actor, musician, and voiceover artist based in NYC.

Find extras and educator resources at playsparkler.org/podcast.

Everything PETS! — With Ashlie Atkinson

Mon, 08 May 2023 13:00:00 -0400

In this episode, four seven- and eight-year-old kids ( Evelyn, Ella, Chelsea, and Eliot) join Todd to discuss their best fur-riends: their pets! How do we care for our pets? How do pets make us feel? What do we learn from our pets? They then go on a journey to the Land of Qook-a-lackas, where they help a Qook-a-leekie, Quillion, who has lost their pet Quigley.

The role of Quillion is played by Ashlie Atkinson, an American actress who works in movies, television, and theater. She has a LONG list of credits including Peaches in the Netflix film Juanita, Rochelle Applebaum in the Martin Scorsese film The Wolf of Wall Street, Connie in the Spike Lee film BlacKkKlansman, and Janice in USA Network's Mr. Robot, and Mamie Fish in HBO's The Gilded Age. Ashlie is also the proud cat parent of two fur-babies, Mookie and Pearl.

Four in five of U.S. families with school-age children are estimated to have a pet — and pets can play a big role in children's development, helping them to learn responsible behavior, respect for living things, and the ability to provide comfort, love, and loyalty.

The ukulele music and original song, My Furry Friend, in this episode is written and performed by Bill English. Bill is an actor, musician, and voiceover artist based in NYC.

Find extras and educator resources at playsparkler.org/podcast.

Bonus: Interview About the Research & Guide that Inspired the "Celebrating Our Differences" Episode With Dr. Colleen Russo Johnson and Makeda Mays Green

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 12:00:00 -0400

In our episode "Celebrating Our Differences," Todd joined with Makeda Mays Green to chat about identity, belonging, and race with four big-hearted kids. After the episode recording, Makeda and her colleague Dr. Colleen Russo Johnson stuck around to talk about their research and the resulting guide for families that inspired the episode.

In this bonus episode interview, Makeda (SVP, Digital and Cultural Insights at Nickelodeon) and Colleen (VP, Digital and Cultural Consumer Insights at Nickelodeon) talk about what they learned when they surveyed more than 15,000 families and conducted detailed parent-child interviews with more than 50 families. They also share the guide that resulted, "Discussing Race With Young Children: A Step-by-Step Activity Guide." And they reflect on what the kids share in the episode.

Parents, listen to this interview first before sharing with your little ones!

Learn more about the research and the guide online at www.BigHeartWorld.org/DiscussingRace.

Learn more about our podcast at www.PlaySparkler.org/podcast

Celebrating Our Differences with Krys Marshall

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 08:00:00 -0400

In this episode, six- and seven-year-old kids of different races/ethnicities (Elliott, Finley, Landon, and Sky) join Todd and a special friend, Makeda Mays Green, to discuss identity, belonging, race, and racism. They share their observations and experiences — and then go on a journey to the Land of Qook-a-lackas, where they advise a Qook-a-leekie, Qwee-co, whose friends have been excluded from a Moon Day party because of their queckles.

The role of Qwee-co is played by Krys Marshall, an actress who is currently playing the role of Danielle Poole, a NASA engineer and the agency's first African-American astronaut, on the Apple TV+ series "For All Mankind." Krys can also be seen on the CW's "Supergirl," CBS's "Bull," Showtime's "Shameless," "Criminal Minds," "NCIS," and "How I Met Your Mother," and NBC's Emmy-winning series "This Is Us."

The ukulele music in the episode is written and performed by Bill English. Bill is an actor, musician, and voiceover artist based in NYC.

The original song in the episode, "Puzzle Pieces," is by Brooklyn, NY-based musician and longtime educator Benjamin Weiner.

Find extras and educator resources at playsparkler.org/podcast.

Feeling Angry! — With Marjan Neshat

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 08:00:00 -0500

In this episode, three kids (Lauren, Esther, and Sam) join Todd to explore the feeling of anger — what it is, how it makes us feel, and what we can do about it! They share their experiences with anger and go on a journey to the Land of Qook-a-lackas where they advise a Qook-a-leekie, Kainaz, who is feeling very ... ANGRY.

The roles of Kainaz is played by Marjan Neshat, an Iranian-born, American actress, who's well known for her roles on stage, and in film & TV. (Please also listen to our special bonus interview with Marjan about how she's transforming her own anger about what's happening in her home country of Iran into advocacy.)

The ukulele music and the original song "Feelings are OK" are written and performed by Bill English. Bill is an actor, musician, and voiceover artist based in NYC.

Find extras and educator resources at playsparkler.org/podcast.

Let's Talk Siblings With Jenn Lyon and Henry Vick

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0500

There’s a good chance that a sibling relationship will last longer than most other relationships in life. Many times, siblings can help children to define what they value and look for in other relationships. Siblings can also help each other to develop self-regulation and emotional understanding as they grow up together. All relationships will have some conflict, and this can promote growth ... but it can be tough, especially when you live together, or even share a bunk bed!

In this episode, Todd talks with two groups of siblings (Eloise, Oliver, and Theo & Kettner and Reece) about what it's like to be siblings. Then they pile into a flying station wagon to visit the Land of Qook-a-Lackas, where they help a pair of Qook-a-leekie siblings, Kaiway and Kannon, sort through their conflict!

The roles of Kaiway and Kannon are played by Jenn Lyon and Henry Vick. Jenn is an actress/writer/producer who lives in Brooklyn and is currently shooting a new show for HBO in Vancouver called “Dead Boy Detectives” and most recently starred on “Claws” on TNT. Henry is an entertainer, writer and performer living and working in NYC.

The ukulele music and the original song "I'm Such a Lucky One" are written and performed by Bill English. Bill is an actor, musician, and voiceover artist based in NYC.

Find extras and educator resources at playsparkler.org/podcast.

Bonus: Interview About Transforming Anger Into Advocacy with Marjan Neshat

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 08:00:00 -0500

This weekend, Little Kids, Big Hearts recorded a new episode about one feeling that ALL of us have — anger! The guest Qook-a-leekie in our episode was played by a friend, Marjan Neshat, an amazing actress who has recently been channeling her own anger by amplifying the voices of people in her home country of Iran. After recording the episode, Marjan stayed on for a one-on-one conversation about her recent experiences and advocacy related to what’s happening in Iran. We wanted to release it today because it’s about current events and seemed like a perfect discussion to share on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. We believe deeply in having difficult conversations and not shying away from topics that may not be comfortable for everyone to discuss. Parents don’t always have a choice about what kinds of conversations they have with their children. Children see, hear, and read everything around them, and they have questions.

Parents, you might want to listen alone first before sharing this with your children.

We hope that you have a meaningful Martin Luther King Jr. Day and we are excited to share the full episode with you soon!

Cultivating Sweet Kindness — With Meredith Holzman, Matt Malloy, Pablo Castelblanco, and Nadiyah Dorsey

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 08:00:00 -0500

In this special fictional episode we learn how one small act of kindness can spread through a whole community. The story is the origin story of gummy bears in the Land of Qook-a-Lackas. But it is also about community and inclusiveness! Every single person in a community plays an important role and has the power to help others.

In this episode, LKBH Host, Todd Loyd, reads the parts of Kenley (a parent Qook-a-Lacka) and Qwintin (a neighbor Qook-a-Lacka). We were excited to be joined by real-life friends, who bring this special fictional episode to life. You'll hear the voices of some friends who are currently part of ABC's Alaska Daily — Meredith Holzman, Matt Malloy, and Pablo Castelblanco — as well as the voice of Nadiyah Dorsey, a veteran of stage and screen, and the voice of Christy Pusz-Decatur, long-time Broadway actress and the creative producer of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast. Also enjoy the original song, "Spread the Love" by Bill English.

Listen to the episode and keep the learning going with our free, fun education resources, available online at playsparkler.org/podcast!

Trying New Things With Christine Pedi

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 11:00:00 -0400

When was the last time you tried something new? Was it hard? Was it scary? Was it fun? Trying new things can take us outside of our comfort zones and into places of uncertainty, which can be a bit scary ... for kids AND grown-ups. Trying new things requires a certain level of confidence that most people are not born with — we have to work at it!

Find extras and educator resources at playsparkler.org/podcast.

Dreams & Nightmares with Christy Pusz Decatur

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 08:00:00 -0400

We all have dreams and nightmares, but they remain mysterious to most of us: Where do they come from? Why do we have them? How do they make us feel? How do we cope with the bad ones? In this episode, three of our friends — Isla, James, and Riya — share their dreams and nightmares, and then we meet up to go on an adventure to the Land of Qook-a-Lackas to visit DreamFest (a special Qook-a-Lacka dream ritual) to learn more about dreams.

Two special guests join us in this episode, and we are so grateful to them:

The ukulele music and the original song "Dreamland" are written and performed by Bill English. Bill is an actor, musician, and voiceover artist based in NYC who has appeared on Broadway in Twentieth Century starring Alec Baldwin and Anne Heche and Anything Goes with Sutton Foster and Joel Grey. TV credits include The Good Wife, Madam Secretary, Elementary, Cavemen, Family Guy, and more. He is a graduate of the University of North Carolina School of the Arts and proud member of Sag/Aftra.

Christy Pusz Decatur is a storyteller and former actress, who is also Creative Producer of Little Kids, Big Hearts. In this episode, she is the voice of a Qook-a-Leekie named Quamie. Some of Christy's Broadway credits include The Odd Couple, Talk Radio and Baz Luhrman's La Boheme. Some TV credits include: Law and Order SVU + CI, Smash, and Ugly Betty. She is a proud mother of two big hearted little kids and lives in Denver, Colorado.

WELCOME to Season 2 of the Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast! We've been dreaming of this episode for a long time, and it's finally here! We can't wait to share all of this new season with you!

Find extras and educator resources at playsparkler.org/podcast.

Seeking Little Kids With Big Hearts

Sun, 07 Aug 2022 08:00:00 -0400

As we put together season two of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast, we're looking for kids who have big questions and big ideas about the topics we KNOW are on little kids’ minds. If you have a child — aged 4 to 10 — who has a lot to say about trying new things, sibling relationships, family traditions, or experiencing loss, we’d LOVE to connect! Please email us: podcast@playsparkler.org to get the ball rolling!

And if your family loves the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast, please subscribe so that you get the new episodes of season 2 this coming fall as soon as they're available.

Bonus Episode: The Dragon Among Us

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 14:00:00 -0400

The team at Little Kids, Big Hearts wrote this special fictional story, The Dragon Among Us, for our friends at Stories Podcast. They initially published it on their podcast feed, and we're sharing it here on our feed with their permission.

In The Dragon Among Us, we visit the Land of Qook-a-Lackas and meet some of the magical creatures who live there. We'll follow along as Crayton (a dragon) and Kaze (a Qook-a-Leekie) learn important lessons about being kind to friends and family and sticking up for others in need.

Draw a picture of what you think any of the characters in this story look like, and then tag us and Stories Podcast on instagram (@little_kids_big_hearts_podcast and @storiespodcast)! We'd love to see your artwork and share it on our feed!

We'll be back with Season 2 of Little Kids, Big Hearts soon. Please subscribe so you won't miss a minute of our exciting new season and hear from real-life little kids with big hearts about feelings, friendship, dreams, nightmares, and much more! And please visit our friends at Stories Podcast to hear more imaginative stories for children and families.

How to Be a Global Citizen, Part II

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 12:00:00 -0500

Each neighborhood, family, and child is unique, but there is so much that we share — and so much that kids across the world can do together to connect across oceans and borders! In Part II of our global citizenship episode, Marcus from Japan, Gaurav from India, Ella from Australia, Nils Jr. from Norway/USA, Eva from Venezuela, Sophia from England, and Lucy and Emaline from Scotland take an imaginary adventure to the Land of Qook-a-Lackas, where they continue sharing their own experiences and perspectives and exploring the big idea of "global citizenship" and what it means to share one, big world together.

How to be a Global Citizen, Part I

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 17:00:00 -0500

Some kids eat quesadillas for breakfast, some eat iddli, and some eat cereal — but there is SO MUCH that kids around the globe share in common! Meet Marcus from Japan, Gaurav from India, Ella from Australia, Nils Jr. from Norway/USA, Eva from Venezuela, Sophia from England, and Lucy and Emaline from Scotland to explore the idea of "global citizenship" and what it means to share one, big world. This is Part I of the Little Kids, Big Hearts episode about global citizenship.

How to Stand Up

Sat, 18 Dec 2021 10:00:00 -0500

What would YOU do if someone was picking on a friend? Join Todd, Cora, Riya, and Simon to explore what you can do to become an upstander in your school and community. We all have the power to use our voices for good and to stand up for ourselves and others!

How to Help

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 12:00:00 -0400

"How to Help" highlights Orion, Zohaib, and Katelynn — three kids who are dong BIG things to help in their communities. Everyone, even little kids, can make a big difference. Listen to get inspired: Imagine ways YOU can be a helper in your family, school, and community.

A Back to School Like No Other: Bonus Episode

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Kids around the world had a BIG transition back to school this year, filled with big feelings! The last school year was challenging and disrupted due to COVID-19. As we dive into a new school year, Todd chats with four big hearted kids from past episodes — before and after the first day — to discuss the return to school for the 2021-22 school year.

Let's Work It Out!

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 07:00:00 -0400

“Let’s Work it Out” is about interpersonal problems — and how to solve them together! Todd and three kids (all big siblings with lots of problem-solving know-how) draw on their experience and problem-solving skills to help Mango and the Qook-a-Lackas to resolve interpersonal conflicts.

What IS empathy?

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 11:00:00 -0400

Have you ever looked for clues to find out how someone else is feeling? Todd, Roxy, and three empathetic children discuss how they notice and share others' feelings and how they show that they care.

What Makes a Good Friend?

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 10:00:00 -0400

Have you ever made a new friend on Zoom or tried to stay connected to a friend who moved far away? In this episode, Todd, Ringo, and four insightful children discuss the magic of friendship. They explore how to make new friends and maintain friendships — plus how to be a good friend to others.

What Can You Do With Big Feelings?

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 08:00:00 -0400

What do you do when you're feeling angry or sad, or when you're facing something new and scary like COVID-19? In this episode, Todd, Rainbow, and four kids discuss big feelings, where they come from, and what to do with with them.

What Makes YOU Special?

Tue, 18 May 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast that helps parents, caregivers, and educators explore "heart skills" with their children. In this episode, our host, Todd, and his four- and five-year-old guests discuss the qualities and skills that make them special and uniquely themselves!

What's in Your Heart?

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast that helps parents, caregivers and educators explore "heart skills" with their children. In the first episode, Todd and four kids discuss what it means to have a "big heart" and what it feels like to be brave, sad, angry, happy, and silly.

Little Kids, Big Hearts Trailer

Thu, 25 Mar 2021 21:00:00 -0400

Welcome to Little Kids, Big Hearts, a new podcast that helps kids and their grown-ups explore what it means to have a BIG HEART with a little help from the show's host, Todd Loyd, a longtime early childhood educator. It’s a space where kids LEAD the discussion. If you like using your imagination, hanging out with puppets, and eating gummy bears then you’ve found the right place! Recommended for big-hearted kids ages 3-8 (and their grown-ups).