top of page
Explore EduAndYou's Blog Posts
Welcome to EduAndYou, your go-to source for innovative and creative lesson plans, diverse children's book reviews, and educational content designed to inspire educators, education majors, and parents. Dive into a world of engaging ideas, from sensory activities to budget-friendly crafts, all tailored to foster learning and creativity in children. View children's books that help every child feel seen, and maybe even expand your own bookshelf! Let us help you bring fresh and impactful teaching strategies to life with our collection of creative lesson plans and activities. Start exploring today and transform everyday learning experiences!
All Posts
Introducing Our Energy Monsters and Energy Bakery Digital Product on Teachers Pay Teachers
Have you ever noticed how some kids, especially those who are neurodivergent or disabled, have unique energy patterns throughout the day? They might feel tired from a simple task like putting on their shoes, or feel buzzy with too much energy at a time where it seems out of place. If this sounds like a kid you know, our new $3 digital product The Energy Bakery might be perfect for you! Why Energy Pacing Matters for Neurodivergent Students Some kids who are neurodivergent,
Samantha Kilburn
1 day ago3 min read
Discover the Exciting New Features of EduAndYou!
Hey there! I’m super excited to share some fantastic updates about EduAndYou that are going to make learning and playtime even more fun and inclusive! Whether you’re a parent, an early childhood education major, or just someone who loves seeing kids thrive, you’re going to love what I've been cooking up. From my brand-new on-site app STEM-based meditations, there’s something fresh and fabulous for everyone. Let’s dive right in! Meet My On-Site App: Sensory Tools at Your Finge
Samantha Kilburn
Feb 182 min read
Why Neurodiversity Affirming Practices Are In and Shaming Is Out: A Personal Letter from Neurodivergent Founder of EduAndYou, Samantha Kilburn
Hello there! I’m Samantha Kilburn, the proud neurodivergent founder of EduAndYou. Today, I want to share something close to my heart about why neurodiversity affirming practices are absolutely in and why shaming neurodivergent individuals is out . From stimming to children's books, here's a personal account on what neurodiversity affirming practices mean, why they matter, and how you (yes, you!) can implement them into your classroom or home-setting. What Does Neurodiversit
Samantha Kilburn
Feb 154 min read
Exploring One Area of Focus for the Future of EduAndYou: Special Education Legislation and Funding in Central Oregon
Hey there! I’m super excited to share with you what’s brewing at EduAndYou this month and beyond. We’re diving deep into something that truly matters: special education legislation and funding in Central Oregon . We’re also kicking off a brand-new series called Letters from the High Desert that you won’t want to miss! So, grab a comfy seat, and let’s explore how we’re can shape the future of education one letter at a time. Funding Special Education: What We're Talking About
Samantha Kilburn
Feb 42 min read
Embracing Neurodiversity in Education: A Guide for Future Educators
What Does Neurodiversity Really Mean? First things first, what exactly is neurodiversity? You are welcome to look up the exact definition, but the way that I always look at it is as a term that recognizes that brains come in all different shapes and sizes. People think, learn, and experience the world in unique ways. This includes folks with Autism, ADHD, and many other differences. Instead of seeing these as “problems” or “disorders,” a lot of people are moving towards viewi
Samantha Kilburn
Jan 103 min read
Why Diverse Children's Books Might Matter Now More Than Ever: Discussing The World With Children and What We are Doing At EduAndYou to Make a Change
Hey there! Have you ever noticed how most children's books have white, straight, cis, and able-bodied characters? Maybe these books represent the children in your life, but have you ever stopped to think about the kids who have never seen people like them in literature? That’s exactly why diverse children's books are so important! They open doors to new worlds, help kids see themselves or others in stories, and teach empathy like no other tool. Today, I’m diving into why thes
Samantha Kilburn
Jan 104 min read
Creative Poetry Ideas for Kids: Poetry Ideas for Elementary Schoolers
These creative and easy-to-implement poetry ideas for kids highlight the importance of poetry as an expressive tool, inspiring individuals to pick up their pen and get to writing.
Samantha Kilburn
Dec 30, 20254 min read
Three Early Childhood Poetry Activities
Hey there! If you’re on the lookout for poetry activities to do with your early learner, you’re in the right place! I’m super excited to share some awesome ideas that will keep kids engaged, curious, and learning without even realizing it. Whether you’re a parent, an early childhood education major, or just someone who loves sparking young minds, these activities will bring joy and knowledge together in the best way possible! Let’s dive right in and explore some fantastic way
Samantha Kilburn
Dec 19, 20253 min read
Making Children's Books Accessible: A Guide to Online Reading Options and Resources
This guide to finding children's books online promotes accessibility in the realm of children's literature. In this post EduAndYou provides several overviews and links where you can view children's books online for free.
Samantha Kilburn
Dec 8, 20253 min read
Engaging Nature Activities for Kids Outdoor Learning Activities
Hey there! Are you ready to dive into the wonderful world of outdoor fun with kids? From building fairy houses to doing nature journaling, there is an activity for everyone. Are you ready? Let's get started! Why Nature Activities for Kids Are So Important Spending time outside is more than just playtime. It’s a chance for kids to develop essential skills like observation, problem-solving, and teamwork. When children explore nature they expand friendships, learn new concepts,
Samantha Kilburn
Dec 4, 20254 min read
Top Children's Books for Parents, Caretakers, or Educators of Kids with Disabilities: Books to Represent all Children
Hey there! If you’re on the lookout for some fantastic children's books on disabilities, you’ve landed in the right spot! Having the right books by your side can help every child feel represented and loved. Whether you’re a parent, an early childhood education major, or just someone who loves learning with kids, I’ve got some gems to share with you. These books are packed with representation. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore some of the best reads that will inspire, represent,
Samantha Kilburn
Dec 2, 20255 min read
My Life with Leukemia - A Diverse Children's Book Review - Children's Books on Cancer
My Life with Leukemia was written by Mari Schuh and illustrated by Ana Sebastian. It was published on July 15, 2023 by Amicus Learning. This informational and storytelling centered book discusses a child who got diagnosed with leukemia, went through chemotherapy, and eventually went into remission. It explained the symptoms of leukemia, what it was like to be in the hospital, not being able to play with friends because of high infection risks, and all that this young girl m
Samantha Kilburn
Dec 1, 20251 min read
Adam Rocks… and Max Rolls! - Children's Books on Autism
Adam Rocks… and Max Rolls! was written by Connie Colwell Miller and was illustrated by Helena Perez Garcia. It was published on January 14, 2025 by Amicus Learning / Ink. Adam Rocks… and Max Rolls! is a book about an Autistic child named Adam who rocks back and forth to soothe himself. During reading time at school one day, a classmate named Max makes fun of Adam’s rocking, which is his way of stimming. The teacher talks to Max and asks him what his body does to feel comforta
Samantha Kilburn
Dec 1, 20251 min read
Kimberly’s Way with Words - a Diverse Children's Book Review
Kimberly’s Way with Words was written by Connie Colwell Miller and Illustrated by Helena Perez Garcia. There are two different publishers. One publisher is the Creative Company. This version was published on January 14, 2025. The other publisher is Amicus Learning, which was published January 1, 2025. The book explores different ways of communicating, covering a sweet story about a non-speaking Autistic girl named Kimberly who is getting groceries with her mom. In the book,
Samantha Kilburn
Dec 1, 20251 min read
My Life with Tourette Syndrome - A Diverse Children's Book Review
My Life with Tourette Syndrome was written by Mari Schuh and illustrated by Ana Sebastian. It was published on August 8, 2023 by Amicus Learning. Similarly to My Life with Diabetes, one of the previously mentioned book reviews, this book follows an informative and storytelling pattern, explaining that the protagonist has a condition called Tourette Syndrome. The book explains what her symptoms are, in this case involuntary movements and sounds known as tics, and how they af
Samantha Kilburn
Dec 1, 20251 min read
My Life with Diabetes - A Diverse Children's Book Review
My Life with Diabetes was written by Mari Schuh and illustrated by Ana Sebastian. This book was published on July 15, 2023 by Amicus Learning. The book is informational but it is also a story. It goes through some of the symptoms of diabetes, including how the young girl found out about her condition. It explains that the child gets insulin through a pump and that she needs to check her blood sugar often. Although the main focus of the book is diabetes, the author does a goo
Samantha Kilburn
Dec 1, 20251 min read
When A Kid Like Me Fights Cancer - A Diverse Children's Book Review
When A Kid Like Me Fights Cancer was written by Catherine Stier and illustrated by Angel Chang. It was published on September 1, 2019 by Albery Whitman and Company. A later edition was released in 2021. When A Kid Like Me Fights Cancer is about a young child who got diagnosed with cancer. It follows a similar writing pattern of, “I have learned…” throughout the book, explaining what this young child is realizing about cancer. Initially not knowing what the word “cancer” mean
Samantha Kilburn
Dec 1, 20251 min read
The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin - A Children's Book Review
The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin was written by Julia Finley Mosca, illustrated by Daniel Rieley, and initially published on August 29, 2017 by The Innovation Press. A later version of the book was published on March 5, 2019. This book is a rhythmic and playful overview of Dr. Temple Gradin’s life. It showcases her life from birth until becoming a successful scientist and speaker, highlighting the uniqueness of her Autism, supportive family l
Samantha Kilburn
Dec 1, 20252 min read
Bringing Joy to Every Child: How to Spread Kindness and Support During the Holiday Season
The holiday season often brings images of laughter, gifts, and warm family gatherings. For many children, it is a time filled with excitement and joy. Yet, not every child experiences the care-free magic of winter. Some face challenges that make the holidays difficult or even painful. Families struggling with financial hardship, family conflicts, hospitalization or childhood illness, or inadequate living conditions can find the season overwhelming. This post explores these ch
Samantha Kilburn
Dec 1, 20253 min read
Looking for children's books on disabilities or winter activities to do with elementary schoolers?
Hey there, are you looking for children's books on disabilities to read to your elementary schooler? What about activities to do this winter to support creativity, fine, and gross motor skills? Well, if so then you're in luck! December's Book Review Focus A large portion of upcoming book reviews will be on children's books about disabilities, including neurodiversity and mental health conditions. From autism to epilepsy, explore a variety of children's books that can support
Samantha Kilburn
Nov 30, 20251 min read
bottom of page