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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!
Diversity
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
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
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
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
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