Storytime: The Story String

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

In this episode, Todd and special guest Leo, Todd's former student, bring an original story to life set in the Land of Qook-a-lackas.

The story follows Quinjamin, a young Qook-a-leekie who loves mornings best: extra fluffy pancakes with quiddleberry drizzle, walks through the meadow, and time with their beloved grown-up Quillow. But every so often, Quillow has to leave on a helping journey to the Isle of Linkish, to check on old friends called the Linkadoos and lend a hand wherever it is needed.

Before leaving, Quillow gives Quinjamin something special: a long braided string and a little basket of wooden story pieces, stars, flowers, feathers, hearts, and more, waiting to be painted. The idea: every time something makes your heart grow while we are apart, decorate one and add it to the story string. Because even when we are apart, our stories keep growing.

What follows is a tender and beautifully told story about missing someone, keeping going anyway, and the surprising discovery that love does not pause just because two people are far apart. It stretches. It gathers stories. And when they are together again, there is even more to share.

Featuring Leo, Todd's former student.

Perfect for kids ages 3-11, military families, and for listening together as a family.

In This Episode, Kids Will:

Travel to the Land of Qook-a-lackas for an original story about love and distanceMeet Quinjamin and Quillow, and discover the magic of the Story StringHear that missing someone and having fun on the same day can both be trueLearn that our hearts are big enough to hold more than one feeling at onceBe inspired to make their own Story String while someone they love is awayGrown-Ups, You Can Extend the Storytime By:

Asking your child: "What would you put on your Story String today?"Making a Story String together using string, paper, or wooden piecesTalking about how your family keeps growing even when someone is awaySharing a memory from a time you were apart from someone you love and what helpedAbout Little Kids, Big Hearts:

Little Kids, Big Hearts is a social and emotional learning podcast where kids lead the conversation. Through real discussions, imaginative stories, songs, and Kidventures, children explore feelings, relationships, kindness, and what it means to care for others.

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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