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    Little Kids, Big Hearts

    Little Kids, Big Hearts helps kids and their grown-ups grow social and emotional skills, a.k.a. Big Hearts, 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 and explore big ideas in social and emotional learning — from feelings to friendship to helping others.

    Parent info: Little Kids, Big Hearts is recommended for ages under 5 and 6-10. It's an Episodic show that can be listened to in any order. Made in the USA, it's about Emotional Health and Life Skills for kids. Launched in 2021, it has 5 seasons.

    There are 114 episodes

    Episodes
    The most recent appears first.

    • Bonus Interview: Broadway Star Raúl Esparza Answers Kids' Biggest Questions!
      Bonus Interview: Broadway Star Raúl Esparza Answers Kids' Biggest Questions!

      22 minSeason 531 July 2026

      Welcome friends! In this special bonus Interview episode, Todd sits down with his friend, four-time Tony Award nominee and celebrated Broadway and television star Raúl Esparza.

    • Interview: A Song About Missing Someone You Love!
      Interview: A Song About Missing Someone You Love!

      20 min24 July 2026

      Welcome friends! In this Interview episode, Todd is joined by singer-songwriter Christopher Burkholder and returning guest Jack, age six, who you may remember from our episode about military families.

    • Storytime: The Story String
      Storytime: The Story String

      9 minSeason 5Episode 2917 July 2026

      Welcome friends! We're so glad you're joining us for a brand new Storytime episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast.

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

      19 minSeason 5Episode 2810 July 2026

      Welcome friends! We're so glad you're joining us for a brand new Mission episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast.

    • Kidventure: When Someone You Love is Far Away
      Kidventure: When Someone You Love is Far Away

      31 minSeason 5Episode 273 July 2026

      Welcome friends! We're so glad you're joining us for a brand new Kidventure episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast.

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

      35 minSeason 5Episode 2626 June 2026

      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.

    • Storytime: The Stars of Twinkle Top
      Storytime: The Stars of Twinkle Top

      10 minSeason 5Episode 2519 June 2026

      Welcome friends! We're so glad you're joining us for a brand new Storytime episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast.

    • Mission: What Makes You YOU?
      Mission: What Makes You YOU?

      13 minSeason 5Episode 2412 June 2026

      Welcome friends! We're so glad you're joining us for a brand new Mission episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast.

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

      29 minSeason 5Episode 235 June 2026

      Welcome friends! We're so glad you're joining us for a brand new Kidventure episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast.

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

      21 minSeason 5Episode 2229 May 2026

      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 fro…

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

      19 minSeason 5Episode 2122 May 2026

      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.

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

      26 minSeason 5Episode 2015 May 2026

      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.

    • Mission: Little Siblings, Big Feelings
      Mission: Little Siblings, Big Feelings

      12 minSeason 5Episode 198 May 2026

      Welcome friends! We're so glad you're joining us for a brand new Mission episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast.

    • Kidventure: Little Siblings Crash the Build Zone!
      Kidventure: Little Siblings Crash the Build Zone!

      33 minSeason 5Episode 181 May 2026

      Welcome friends! We're so glad you're joining us for a brand new Kidventure episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast.

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

      18 minSeason 5Episode 1724 April 2026

      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 La…

    • Storytime: Slow Down and Notice!
      Storytime: Slow Down and Notice!

      8 minSeason 5Episode 1617 April 2026

      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.

    • Mission: Kids Can Help The Earth!
      Mission: Kids Can Help The Earth!

      13 minSeason 5Episode 1510 April 2026

      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.

    • Kidventure: Can Kids Help Heal The Land? 🍀💚
      Kidventure: Can Kids Help Heal The Land? 🍀💚

      27 minSeason 5Episode 143 April 2026

      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 …

    • Interview: A 68-Year Friendship Story!
      Interview: A 68-Year Friendship Story!

      15 minSeason 5Episode 1327 March 2026

      Welcome friends! We're so glad you're joining us for a brand new episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast.

    • SONGS: Friendship Songs That’ll Make You Dance!
      SONGS: Friendship Songs That’ll Make You Dance!

      27 minSeason 5Episode 1220 March 2026

      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 mu…

    • Mission: Be a Friend and Fight Loneliness With Kindness!
      Mission: Be a Friend and Fight Loneliness With Kindness!

      14 minSeason 5Episode 1113 March 2026

      Welcome friends! We're so glad you're joining us for a brand new Mission episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast.

    • Kidventure: Navigating Friendship
      Kidventure: Navigating Friendship

      25 minSeason 5Episode 106 March 2026

      Welcome friends! We're so glad you're joining us for another Kidventure on the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast!

    • Interview: Exploring Community with Matt de la Peña
      Interview: Exploring Community with Matt de la Peña

      19 minSeason 5Episode 927 February 2026

      Welcome friends! We’re so glad you’re joining us for this special interview episode of Little Kids, Big Hearts.

    • Storytime: The Light of Loodle Loop
      Storytime: The Light of Loodle Loop

      7 minSeason 5Episode 820 February 2026

      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!

    • Mission: Build Community With Kindness
      Mission: Build Community With Kindness

      13 minSeason 5Episode 713 February 2026

      Welcome friends! We’re so glad you’re joining us for a brand new Mission episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast.

    • Kidventure: Building Community Together!
      Kidventure: Building Community Together!

      25 minSeason 5Episode 66 February 2026

      Welcome friends! We’re so glad you’re joining us for another Kidventure on the Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast.

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

      15 minSeason 5Episode 530 January 2026

      Welcome friends! We’re so glad you’re here for this heart-filled episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast.

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

      13 minSeason 5Episode 423 January 2026

      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.

    • Mission: Let's Make a Family Quilt!
      Mission: Let's Make a Family Quilt!

      7 minSeason 5Episode 316 January 2026

      Welcome friends! We’re so glad you’re joining us for another Season 5 episode of the Little Kids, Big Hearts Podcast.

    • Get Ready for Season 5 of Little Kids, Big Hearts
      Get Ready for Season 5 of Little Kids, Big Hearts

      2 minSeason 5Episode 16 January 2026

      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.

    • Camp Sparkler: Feeling Grateful!
      Camp Sparkler: Feeling Grateful!

      6 minSeason 4Episode 3528 July 2025

      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…

    • Camp Sparkler: Calming Down
      Camp Sparkler: Calming Down

      7 minSeason 4Episode 3421 July 2025

      Week 3 of Camp Sparkler is focused on CALMING DOWN — strategies people can use to regulate their big feelings.

    • Camp Sparkler: Working Together
      Camp Sparkler: Working Together

      4 minSeason 4Episode 3318 July 2025

      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 b…

    • Camp Sparkler: We Belong!
      Camp Sparkler: We Belong!

      6 minSeason 4Episode 3213 July 2025

      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 b…

    • Storytime: The Curious Case of the Quiet Tree
      Storytime: The Curious Case of the Quiet Tree

      6 minSeason 4Episode 3110 July 2025

      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 b…

    • The Nature Detective Mission 🔍🌻
      The Nature Detective Mission 🔍🌻

      3 minSeason 4Episode 309 July 2025

      This month, Little Kids, Big Hearts is focused on the natural world — and how it makes us feel!

    • Camp Sparkler: Hopes & Dreams
      Camp Sparkler: Hopes & Dreams

      6 minSeason 4Episode 2925 August 2025

      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?

    • We 💚 Nature with Maulik Pancholy
      We 💚 Nature with Maulik Pancholy

      34 minSeason 4Episode 294 July 2025

      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.

    • Camp Sparkler: Feelings
      Camp Sparkler: Feelings

      4 minSeason 4Episode 2818 August 2025

      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!

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

      14 minSeason 4Episode 2827 June 2025

      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.

    • Camp Sparkler: Helping Others!
      Camp Sparkler: Helping Others!

      4 minSeason 4Episode 2711 August 2025

      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 share…

    • Storytime: Quessa's Big Camp Out
      Storytime: Quessa's Big Camp Out

      8 minSeason 4Episode 2720 June 2025

      Welcome to Storytime!

    • Camp Sparkler: Let's Imagine!
      Camp Sparkler: Let's Imagine!

      6 minSeason 4Episode 264 August 2025

      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 — "Imaginatio…

    • Feeling Nervous? Sing Along With Us!
      Feeling Nervous? Sing Along With Us!

      2 minSeason 4Episode 2625 June 2025

      Everyone feels nervous sometimes — whether you're a Grammy-winning performer or a kid who hasn't started Kindergarten yet!

    • The I'm Brave Mission
      The I'm Brave Mission

      5 minSeason 4Episode 2513 June 2025

      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.

    • Wobbly to Wow With Judge Reinhold
      Wobbly to Wow With Judge Reinhold

      28 minSeason 4Episode 246 June 2025

      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?

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

      16 minSeason 4Episode 2330 May 2025

      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.

    • Storytime: The Day the Songbook Disappeared
      Storytime: The Day the Songbook Disappeared

      8 minSeason 4Episode 2223 May 2025

      Welcome to Storytime!

    • Original Song: Power of A Song
      Original Song: Power of A Song

      3 minSeason 4Episode 2121 May 2025

      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.

    • The Song of YOU Mission
      The Song of YOU Mission

      4 minSeason 4Episode 2016 May 2025

      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!

    • Super Songs for Super Kids
      Super Songs for Super Kids

      21 minSeason 4Episode 199 May 2025

      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! 🎶 🎹 🎸

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

      22 minSeason 4Episode 182 May 2025

      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…

    • Storytime: Quiggle's Wheels
      Storytime: Quiggle's Wheels

      4 minSeason 4Episode 1728 April 2025

      Welcome to storytime!

    • Song & Interview: "Together" With Lance Horne
      Song & Interview: "Together" With Lance Horne

      13 minSeason 4Episode 1625 April 2025

      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…

    • The You, Me, We Mission
      The You, Me, We Mission

      3 minSeason 4Episode 1517 April 2025

      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.

    • Inclusion Matters With Ali Stroker
      Inclusion Matters With Ali Stroker

      31 minSeason 4Episode 1411 April 2025

      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…

    • Interview: Making Music & Making Mistakes with Laurie Berkner
      Interview: Making Music & Making Mistakes with Laurie Berkner

      32 minSeason 4Episode 1328 March 2025

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

    • Storytime: A Mistake Takes Root
      Storytime: A Mistake Takes Root

      9 minSeason 4Episode 1221 March 2025

      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.

    • Mighty Mistakes Mission & Song
      Mighty Mistakes Mission & Song

      6 minSeason 4Episode 1114 March 2025

      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, w…

    • The Magic of Mistakes with Terence Archie
      The Magic of Mistakes with Terence Archie

      34 minSeason 4Episode 107 March 2025

      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!

    • "Helping" Interview with Firefighter John Louthan
      "Helping" Interview with Firefighter John Louthan

      14 minSeason 4Episode 928 February 2025

      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 Loutha…

    • Storytime: New Skies for Lyra
      Storytime: New Skies for Lyra

      11 minSeason 4Episode 821 February 2025

      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-d…

    • Operation Help Out Mission and Song
      Operation Help Out Mission and Song

      6 minSeason 4Episode 713 February 2025

      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, …

    • Big Hearts in Tough Times: LA Kids Discuss the Fires
      Big Hearts in Tough Times: LA Kids Discuss the Fires

      35 minSeason 4Episode 67 February 2025

      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 ba…

    • Interview: Fairness with Judge Gabriel Sanchez
      Interview: Fairness with Judge Gabriel Sanchez

      18 minSeason 4Episode 531 January 2025

      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, a…

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

      6 minSeason 4Episode 524 January 2025

      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" t…

    • The Fairness Quest Mission & Song
      The Fairness Quest Mission & Song

      5 minSeason 4Episode 422 January 2025

      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" t…

    • Fairness with Vella Lovell and Meredith Holzman
      Fairness with Vella Lovell and Meredith Holzman

      25 minSeason 4Episode 310 January 2025

      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 …

    • Song & Interview: I’m Grateful by Benjamin Weiner
      Song & Interview: I’m Grateful by Benjamin Weiner

      14 minSeason 4Episode 215 November 2024

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

    • Gratitude PowerUp with Lauren Blumenfeld
      Gratitude PowerUp with Lauren Blumenfeld

      25 minSeason 4Episode 18 November 2024

      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.

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

      37 minSeason 3Episode 1419 August 2024

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

    • The Magic of Stories with Nick Blaemire
      The Magic of Stories with Nick Blaemire

      28 minSeason 3Episode 139 August 2024

      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 i…

    • Building Resilience with Marc Grapey
      Building Resilience with Marc Grapey

      32 minSeason 3Episode 1212 July 2024

      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…

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

      22 minSeason 3Episode 115 July 2024

      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 ba…

    • Celebrating Learning Differences with Q. Smith
      Celebrating Learning Differences with Q. Smith

      40 minSeason 3Episode 1014 June 2024

      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 infor…

    • Let's Take Responsibility with Natalie Gold
      Let's Take Responsibility with Natalie Gold

      31 minSeason 3Episode 910 May 2024

      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 impor…

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

      24 minSeason 3Episode 83 May 2024

      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 (A…

    • Grandparent Relationships
      Grandparent Relationships

      38 minSeason 3Episode 71 March 2024

      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 signific…

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

      12 minSeason 3Episode 79 February 2024

      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 a…

    • Boundaries with Michael Cruz Kayne and Ana Cruz Kayne
      Boundaries with Michael Cruz Kayne and Ana Cruz Kayne

      37 minSeason 3Episode 62 February 2024

      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.

    • Hopes & Dreams With Jolly Abraham
      Hopes & Dreams With Jolly Abraham

      32 minSeason 3Episode 55 January 2024

      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 …

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

      33 minSeason 3Episode 48 December 2023

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

    • We Belong — With Alexis Michelle
      We Belong — With Alexis Michelle

      35 minSeason 3Episode 31 December 2023

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

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

      25 minSeason 3Episode 210 November 2023

      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/…

    • Imagination Time! — With Nadiyah Dorsey
      Imagination Time! — With Nadiyah Dorsey

      32 minSeason 3Episode 13 November 2023

      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.

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

      5 minSeason 2Episode 1410 October 2023

      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 …

    • Trying New Things (2023 Signal Awards Finalist)
      Trying New Things (2023 Signal Awards Finalist)

      26 minSeason 2Episode 1330 September 2023

      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, B…

    • The Key to Calming Down With Rebecca Naomi Jones
      The Key to Calming Down With Rebecca Naomi Jones

      36 minSeason 2Episode 124 August 2023

      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…

    • Moving Time With Amir Arison
      Moving Time With Amir Arison

      32 minSeason 2Episode 117 July 2023

      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 ki…

    • Winning & Losing With Bridget Regan
      Winning & Losing With Bridget Regan

      28 minSeason 2Episode 102 June 2023

      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…

    • Everything PETS! — With Ashlie Atkinson
      Everything PETS! — With Ashlie Atkinson

      32 minSeason 2Episode 98 May 2023

      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…

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

      28 minSeason 2Episode 814 April 2023

      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…

    • Celebrating Our Differences with Krys Marshall
      Celebrating Our Differences with Krys Marshall

      31 minSeason 2Episode 75 April 2023

      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 —…

    • Feeling Angry! — With Marjan Neshat
      Feeling Angry! — With Marjan Neshat

      31 minSeason 2Episode 63 March 2023

      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…

    • Let's Talk Siblings With Jenn Lyon and Henry Vick
      Let's Talk Siblings With Jenn Lyon and Henry Vick

      33 minSeason 2Episode 53 February 2023

      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-re…

    • Bonus: Interview About Transforming Anger Into Advocacy with Marjan Neshat
      Bonus: Interview About Transforming Anger Into Advocacy with Marjan Neshat

      14 minSeason 2Episode 416 January 2023

      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 ampli…

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

      29 minSeason 2Episode 313 January 2023

      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…

    • Trying New Things With Christine Pedi
      Trying New Things With Christine Pedi

      25 minSeason 2Episode 24 November 2022

      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 …

    • Dreams & Nightmares with Christy Pusz Decatur
      Dreams & Nightmares with Christy Pusz Decatur

      26 minSeason 2Episode 17 October 2022

      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 d…

    • Seeking Little Kids With Big Hearts
      Seeking Little Kids With Big Hearts

      1 minSeason 27 August 2022

      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 thi…

    • Bonus Episode: The Dragon Among Us
      Bonus Episode: The Dragon Among Us

      22 minSeason 1Episode 1322 July 2022

      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.

    • How to Be a Global Citizen, Part II
      How to Be a Global Citizen, Part II

      26 minSeason 1Episode 1211 March 2022

      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…

    • How to be a Global Citizen, Part I
      How to be a Global Citizen, Part I

      24 minSeason 1Episode 1125 February 2022

      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…

    • How to Stand Up
      How to Stand Up

      21 minSeason 1Episode 1018 December 2021

      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
      How to Help

      26 minSeason 1Episode 94 November 2021

      "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 …

    • A Back to School Like No Other: Bonus Episode
      A Back to School Like No Other: Bonus Episode

      18 minSeason 1Episode 813 October 2021

      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 — bef…

    • Let's Work It Out!
      Let's Work It Out!

      20 minSeason 1Episode 714 September 2021

      “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 resolv…

    • What IS empathy?
      What IS empathy?

      19 minSeason 1Episode 619 August 2021

      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?
      What Makes a Good Friend?

      23 minSeason 1Episode 519 July 2021

      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 …

    • What Can You Do With Big Feelings?
      What Can You Do With Big Feelings?

      21 minSeason 1Episode 421 June 2021

      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?
      What Makes YOU Special?

      21 minSeason 1Episode 318 May 2021

      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 skill…

    • Kidventure: Who's in My Family?
      Kidventure: Who's in My Family?

      29 minSeason 1Episode 29 January 2026

      Welcome friends! We’re so glad you’re joining us for the Season 5 premiere of the Little Kids, Big Hearts podcast!

    • What's in Your Heart?
      What's in Your Heart?

      20 minSeason 1Episode 214 April 2021

      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 l…

    • Little Kids, Big Hearts Trailer
      Little Kids, Big Hearts Trailer

      1 minSeason 1Episode 126 March 2021

      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…

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