Kim John Payne

Kim John Payne is an internationally renowned family consultant and author of the book, Simplicity Parenting. In this episode, Kim, David, and Rebecca use the Junkyard Tales story “Buster” to talk about what is traditionally called "teasing" and "bullying" and is a broader way of discussing "inclusion" and "exclusion." About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

Kim John Payne is an internationally renowned family consultant and author of the book, Simplicity Parenting. In this episode, Kim, David, and Rebecca use the Junkyard Tales story “Buster” to talk about what is traditionally called "teasing" and "bullying" and is a broader way of discussing "inclusion" and "exclusion." About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: <a href="http://www.sparklestories.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.sparklestories.com</a> Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

SC#16: Inclusion, Teasing, and Bullying with Kim John Payne

In today's story: Zippy, the porcupine, has a secret. It’s a secret he doesn’t want to share. He finally entrusts his secret to his feline friend, Ben Thompson: Zippy is being teased by a badger that lives in the field outside of the junkyard. Ben thinks they should teach that badger a lesson, but Sergeant knows how to discover the true source of the teasing and transform it with understanding and kindness. This story is the subject of our conversation with Kim John Payne - author of "Simplicity Parenting: Using the Extraordinary Power of Less to Raise Calmer, Happier and More Secure Kid." About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader - with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions? Ideas? Request? Email us! info@sparklestories.com. Enjoy!

In today's story: Zippy, the porcupine, has a secret. It’s a secret he doesn’t want to share. He finally entrusts his secret to his feline friend, Ben Thompson: Zippy is being teased by a badger that lives in the field outside of the junkyard. Ben thinks they should teach that badger a lesson, but Sergeant knows how to discover the true source of the teasing and transform it with understanding and kindness. This story is the subject of our conversation with Kim John Payne - author of "Simplicity Parenting: Using the Extraordinary Power of Less to Raise Calmer, Happier and More Secure Kid." About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader - with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: <a href="http://www.sparklestories.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.sparklestories.com</a> Questions? Ideas? Request? Email us! info@sparklestories.com. Enjoy!

Story#16: "Buster: A Story About Bullying"

Jamie Martin

Jamie Martin is co-founder and editor of simplehomeschool.net and author of "Give Your Child the World: Raising Globally Minded Kids One Book at a Time." In this episode, Jamie, David, and Rebecca use the Martin &amp; Sylvia story “A Map of the Year” to talk about planning, choosing curriculum and finding balance when homeschooling your children. About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

Jamie Martin is co-founder and editor of <a href="http://simplehomeschool.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">simplehomeschool.net</a> and author of "Give Your Child the World: Raising Globally Minded Kids One Book at a Time." In this episode, Jamie, David, and Rebecca use the Martin &amp; Sylvia story “A Map of the Year” to talk about planning, choosing curriculum and finding balance when homeschooling your children. About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: <a href="http://www.sparklestories.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.sparklestories.com</a> Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

SC#15: An Introduction to Homeschooling with Jamie Martin

In today's story: It is the first week of school and in Martin and Sylvia's house, that means transforming the dining room table into the homeschool work table. Everybody is excited about new books, new materials and indeed, new subjects to learn. This year, Martin is nervous that he will not learn the same things as his friend Sasha who attends the neighborhood school. Momma and Daddy suggest they make lists of all the things each family member wants to learn this year. They compile all of the lists into something like a map. A Map of the Year! *This story is the subject of our conversation about homeschooling with Jamie Martin, editor of simplehomeschool.net and author of "Give Your Child the World: Raising Globally Minded Kids One Book at a Time." About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

In today's story: It is the first week of school and in Martin and Sylvia's house, that means transforming the dining room table into the homeschool work table. Everybody is excited about new books, new materials and indeed, new subjects to learn. This year, Martin is nervous that he will not learn the same things as his friend Sasha who attends the neighborhood school. Momma and Daddy suggest they make lists of all the things each family member wants to learn this year. They compile all of the lists into something like a map. A Map of the Year! *This story is the subject of our conversation about homeschooling with Jamie Martin, editor of <a href="http://simplehomeschool.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">simplehomeschool.net</a> and author of "Give Your Child the World: Raising Globally Minded Kids One Book at a Time." About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: <a href="http://www.sparklestories.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.sparklestories.com</a> Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

Story#15: "A Map of the Year"

Carrie Contey

Dr. Carrie Contey is not your typical parenting expert. Her work offers a new perspective on children, parenting, family life, and being a healthy, happy, whole human being. In this episode of SparkleCast, Carrie, David and Rebecca talk about common dynamics between siblings, especially when they result in conflict and hard feelings. About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

Dr. Carrie Contey is not your typical parenting expert. Her work offers a new perspective on children, parenting, family life, and being a healthy, happy, whole human being. In this episode of SparkleCast, Carrie, David and Rebecca talk about common dynamics between siblings, especially when they result in conflict and hard feelings. About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: <a href="http://www.sparklestories.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.sparklestories.com</a> Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

SC#14:  Sibling Rivalry with Dr. Carrie Contey

In today's story: Sometimes Martin just wants to be alone – and this can be frustrating to Sylvia his younger sister. After Sylvia insists on playing the same games, working on the same projects and talking about the same things, Martin asks Momma for help. Sitting on the couch, Momma tells two stories – one about an older child and one about a younger... *This story is the subject of our conversation about sibling rivalry with Dr. Carrie Contey, a human development specialist, and internationally recognized coach, author, speaker and educator.* About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

In today's story: Sometimes Martin just wants to be alone – and this can be frustrating to Sylvia his younger sister. After Sylvia insists on playing the same games, working on the same projects and talking about the same things, Martin asks Momma for help. Sitting on the couch, Momma tells two stories – one about an older child and one about a younger... *This story is the subject of our conversation about sibling rivalry with Dr. Carrie Contey, a human development specialist, and internationally recognized coach, author, speaker and educator.* About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: <a href="http://www.sparklestories.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.sparklestories.com</a> Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

Story#14: "Martin and Sylvia: The Snowball Factory"

This week’s SparkleCast features three producers and hosts of popular science podcasts for kids, who joined us from around the country: Lindsay Patterson, a science journalist and the co-host and producer of “Tumble,” a science podcast for kids; Sanden Totten, a producer and co-host of “Brains On!,” a podcast featuring science for kids and curious adults; and Eric Butkus, whose son, Nate, is the host of “The Show About Science” podcast. In this episode, Lindsay, Sanden, Eric, David, and Rebecca discuss the story “Measuring the World,” recall what got us all excited about science when we were children, and then explore ways to introduce and strengthen a love of science in kids today.  About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

This week’s SparkleCast features three producers and hosts of popular science podcasts for kids, who joined us from around the country: Lindsay Patterson, a science journalist and the co-host and producer of “Tumble,” a science podcast for kids; Sanden Totten, a producer and co-host of “Brains On!,” a podcast featuring science for kids and curious adults; and Eric Butkus, whose son, Nate, is the host of “The Show About Science” podcast. In this episode, Lindsay, Sanden, Eric, David, and Rebecca discuss the story “Measuring the World,” recall what got us all excited about science when we were children, and then explore ways to introduce and strengthen a love of science in kids today. About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: <a href="http://www.sparklestories.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.sparklestories.com</a> Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

SC#13: For the Love of Science with Podcasts "Tumble," "Brains On!" and "The Show about Science"

In today's story: When Sylvia declares that she knows everything there is to know about her best friend, Sofia, Momma suggest she use the scientific method to test her theory. And what is the scientific method? Momma explains that it involves measuring, collecting data and then studying the data. Sylvia and Sofia then learn the difference between using the scientific method on rocks, plants, animals and then … best friends. *This story is the subject of our conversation about science with three guests: Lindsay Patterson, a science journalist and the co-host and producer of “Tumble,” a science podcast for kids. Sanden Totten, a producer and co-host of “Brains On!,” a podcast featuring science for kids and curious adults. And Eric Butkus, whose son, Nate, is the host of “The Show About Science” podcast.* About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

In today's story: When Sylvia declares that she knows everything there is to know about her best friend, Sofia, Momma suggest she use the scientific method to test her theory. And what is the scientific method? Momma explains that it involves measuring, collecting data and then studying the data. Sylvia and Sofia then learn the difference between using the scientific method on rocks, plants, animals and then … best friends. *This story is the subject of our conversation about science with three guests: Lindsay Patterson, a science journalist and the co-host and producer of “Tumble,” a science podcast for kids. Sanden Totten, a producer and co-host of “Brains On!,” a podcast featuring science for kids and curious adults. And Eric Butkus, whose son, Nate, is the host of “The Show About Science” podcast.* About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: <a href="http://www.sparklestories.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.sparklestories.com</a> Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

Story#13: "Measuring the World"

Meghan Fitzgerald

Meghan Fitzgerald is co-founder of Tinkergarten. Tinkergarten provides engaging, early-childhood education in the healthiest classroom of all – the outdoors. In this episode of SparkleCast, Meghan, David, and Rebecca discuss the story “Winter Wonder,” in which Helmut, one of the Goose-eye Wilderness School apprentices, talks about how "wondering" can be an effective teacher in the natural world. About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

Meghan Fitzgerald is co-founder of Tinkergarten. Tinkergarten provides engaging, early-childhood education in the healthiest classroom of all – the outdoors. In this episode of SparkleCast, Meghan, David, and Rebecca discuss the story “Winter Wonder,” in which Helmut, one of the Goose-eye Wilderness School apprentices, talks about how "wondering" can be an effective teacher in the natural world. About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: <a href="http://www.sparklestories.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.sparklestories.com</a> Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

SC#12: The Gifts of Outdoor Education with Meghan Fitzgerald

Wonder

In today's story: At Goose-eye Wilderness Camp, Martin notices that his friend Sam is feeling tired of winter and missing her home in Arizona. He hesitates to tell her that there are still several weeks of winter left, but luckily Helmut, the apprentice from Germany, knows exactly how to show Sam the way to appreciate the gifts of Winter. *This story is the subject of our conversation with Meghan Fitzgerald, co-founder of Tinkergarten.* About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

In today's story: At Goose-eye Wilderness Camp, Martin notices that his friend Sam is feeling tired of winter and missing her home in Arizona. He hesitates to tell her that there are still several weeks of winter left, but luckily Helmut, the apprentice from Germany, knows exactly how to show Sam the way to appreciate the gifts of Winter. *This story is the subject of our conversation with Meghan Fitzgerald, co-founder of Tinkergarten.* About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: <a href="http://www.sparklestories.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.sparklestories.com</a> Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

Story#12: "Winter Wonder"

SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool.

Thank you !! I ❤️ sparkle storys!
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It da best

SparkleCast Podcast

In today's story: The people of Solvei’s village mark the end of the growing season and the beginning of the dark time with a yearly festival. In this joyful celebration, the villagers dress as dragons that represent the things they fear. Solvei is too young to attend, but is so excited that she sneaks a peek on the night of the festival — and comes home with many different fears from the “dragons” that she saw there. Her mother explains that she has taken on “someone else’s dragon” and then helps her daughter give the fears back so she can fall peacefully asleep.  *This story is the subject of our conversation with Renee Jain, founder and chief storyteller for GoZen.com, an online anxiety relief resource for children around the world. The story gives a picture of how scary images or sounds can make children fearful and anxious – and models how to release those images as well the anxiety and fear.* 

In today's story: The people of Solvei’s village mark the end of the growing season and the beginning of the dark time with a yearly festival. In this joyful celebration, the villagers dress as dragons that represent the things they fear. Solvei is too young to attend, but is so excited that she sneaks a peek on the night of the festival — and comes home with many different fears from the “dragons” that she saw there. Her mother explains that she has taken on “someone else’s dragon” and then helps her daughter give the fears back so she can fall peacefully asleep. *This story is the subject of our conversation with Renee Jain, founder and chief storyteller for <a href="http://GoZen.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">GoZen.com</a>, an online anxiety relief resource for children around the world. The story gives a picture of how scary images or sounds can make children fearful and anxious – and models how to release those images as well the anxiety and fear.*

Story#3: "Someone Else's Dragon"

In today's story: Every year when the trees have all lost their leaves and the ground starts to frost in the morning, brother and sister start to make their lanterns for their annual lantern festival. This year they can't go their normal route and need to choose another place to walk. When Martin suggests going next door to visit the doctor's house, Sylvia worries that it will be too dark. But the magic of the evening shows her just how much can be seen with the light of a single lantern. *This story is the subject of our conversation with Susan Weber, Director of Sophia’s Hearth Family Center. The story gives guidance on how to model a festival life for our children.* About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com  Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com  Enjoy!

In today's story: Every year when the trees have all lost their leaves and the ground starts to frost in the morning, brother and sister start to make their lanterns for their annual lantern festival. This year they can't go their normal route and need to choose another place to walk. When Martin suggests going next door to visit the doctor's house, Sylvia worries that it will be too dark. But the magic of the evening shows her just how much can be seen with the light of a single lantern. *This story is the subject of our conversation with Susan Weber, Director of Sophia’s Hearth Family Center. The story gives guidance on how to model a festival life for our children.* About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: <a href="http://www.sparklestories.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.sparklestories.com</a> Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

Story#5: "A Little Bit of Light"

In today's story: It’s autumn: the days are getting shorter, and the dark comes earlier. Martin is feeling nervous. His eyes don’t work  as well at night, and he worries about shadows and other things he can’t see. All of it makes it difficult for him to go to sleep at bedtime. Momma encourages him to use his other senses, and guides him through a hearing, smelling, and feeling exercise that not only reassures him, but relaxes him enough to fall deeply asleep.  *This story is the subject of our conversation with Jonathan Hewitt, founder of Life Ki-do Martial Arts and Life Education. The story models how we can calm our busy minds by relaxing and being present in our bodies.*

In today's story: It’s autumn: the days are getting shorter, and the dark comes earlier. Martin is feeling nervous. His eyes don’t work  as well at night, and he worries about shadows and other things he can’t see. All of it makes it difficult for him to go to sleep at bedtime. Momma encourages him to use his other senses, and guides him through a hearing, smelling, and feeling exercise that not only reassures him, but relaxes him enough to fall deeply asleep. *This story is the subject of our conversation with Jonathan Hewitt, founder of Life Ki-do Martial Arts and Life Education. The story models how we can calm our busy minds by relaxing and being present in our bodies.*

Story#2: "The Dark"

In today's story: It's a warm afternoon at the Junkyard. The Warden's car windows are down, and the sound of the radio is carried through the spring air. Ben can't help but be inspired -- could the Junkyard friends make their own music? They all agree to meet at the mounds of Mice Central at sundown, and bring their own unique instrument for a little Junkyard Jam! *This story is the subject of our conversation with Andrew &amp; Polly, award-winning music-makers and hosts of the Ear Snacks podcast. The story gives guidance on inspiring a love of music in our children.* About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

In today's story: It's a warm afternoon at the Junkyard. The Warden's car windows are down, and the sound of the radio is carried through the spring air. Ben can't help but be inspired -- could the Junkyard friends make their own music? They all agree to meet at the mounds of Mice Central at sundown, and bring their own unique instrument for a little Junkyard Jam! *This story is the subject of our conversation with Andrew &amp; Polly, award-winning music-makers and hosts of the Ear Snacks podcast. The story gives guidance on inspiring a love of music in our children.* About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: <a href="http://www.sparklestories.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.sparklestories.com</a> Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

Story#6: "The Band"

In today's story: Lydia is a wealthy merchant who dyes and sells purple cloth to those who can afford it. She lives a life of luxury but has a single regret - she hasn't heard from her son in years. He turned his back on "serving the rich", and has become a teacher to the poor. When she at last receives a letter telling her where he now lives, she resolves to travel to him - though she doesn't realize how difficult and transformative the journey will be. *This story is the subject of our conversation with Laura Chauvin, a non-profit strategist and charitable advisor who is the founder of Her Best Foot Forward, shoe-makers and shoe-buyers in collaboration to empower women and girls.* About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

In today's story: Lydia is a wealthy merchant who dyes and sells purple cloth to those who can afford it. She lives a life of luxury but has a single regret - she hasn't heard from her son in years. He turned his back on "serving the rich", and has become a teacher to the poor. When she at last receives a letter telling her where he now lives, she resolves to travel to him - though she doesn't realize how difficult and transformative the journey will be. *This story is the subject of our conversation with Laura Chauvin, a non-profit strategist and charitable advisor who is the founder of Her Best Foot Forward, shoe-makers and shoe-buyers in collaboration to empower women and girls.* About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: <a href="http://www.sparklestories.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.sparklestories.com</a> Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

Story#7: "Purple"

In today's story: When brother and sister attend a storytelling workshop, Sylvia insists on telling her "Babbit Stories". She can't wait! She knows everyone will love them. Then the storyteller teaches her that some of the best stories come from listening. *This story is the subject of our conversation with intuitive storyteller and teacher Leo Sofer, who is based in Devon, England.* About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

In today's story: When brother and sister attend a storytelling workshop, Sylvia insists on telling her "Babbit Stories". She can't wait! She knows everyone will love them. Then the storyteller teaches her that some of the best stories come from listening. *This story is the subject of our conversation with intuitive storyteller and teacher Leo Sofer, who is based in Devon, England.* About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: <a href="http://www.sparklestories.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.sparklestories.com</a> Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

Story#9: "Listening to the Story Whispers"

In today's story: Blanche Noyes was the first woman to get her pilot’s license in Ohio. She placed fourth in the world famous Women’s Air Derby – right behind Amelia Earhart. Now, she flies a private Ford Trimotor airplane for Standard Oil of Ohio – spending most of her days waiting for the rich and powerful to board her aircraft. This day seems no different, until she learns who her passenger will be: none other than the richest man in the world, John D. Rockefeller. What is he doing in Cleveland and why does he want to fly in her aircraft? When the 90 year old insists on taking his first and only flight in the cockpit, Blanche and John D. have a chance to talk – and realize they actually have a lot in common. *This story is the subject of our conversation with Steve Sheinkin, award-winning author of thrilling history books for young adults.* About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

In today's story: Blanche Noyes was the first woman to get her pilot’s license in Ohio. She placed fourth in the world famous Women’s Air Derby – right behind Amelia Earhart. Now, she flies a private Ford Trimotor airplane for Standard Oil of Ohio – spending most of her days waiting for the rich and powerful to board her aircraft. This day seems no different, until she learns who her passenger will be: none other than the richest man in the world, John D. Rockefeller. What is he doing in Cleveland and why does he want to fly in her aircraft? When the 90 year old insists on taking his first and only flight in the cockpit, Blanche and John D. have a chance to talk – and realize they actually have a lot in common. *This story is the subject of our conversation with Steve Sheinkin, award-winning author of thrilling history books for young adults.* About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: <a href="http://www.sparklestories.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.sparklestories.com</a> Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

Story#10: "The View From Above"

In today's story: Little Nathan loves his days with his mother and father. He loves their attention, he loves their snuggles and he loves playing with them ... when they are able to play. When he learns that his parents are going to have another baby, he is initially excited and imagines that he will have a playmate. But then he notices that things are changing in the house - changes that he doesn't like. Luckily Maggie, the Tulip Tree Elf, offers a perspective on the coming changes that helps him not only feel more welcoming to the baby - but honored to become something very very special: a big brother. *This story is the subject of our conversation with Bryn Huntpalmer, host of the audio podcast, "The Birth Hour."* About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

In today's story: Little Nathan loves his days with his mother and father. He loves their attention, he loves their snuggles and he loves playing with them ... when they are able to play. When he learns that his parents are going to have another baby, he is initially excited and imagines that he will have a playmate. But then he notices that things are changing in the house - changes that he doesn't like. Luckily Maggie, the Tulip Tree Elf, offers a perspective on the coming changes that helps him not only feel more welcoming to the baby - but honored to become something very very special: a big brother. *This story is the subject of our conversation with Bryn Huntpalmer, host of the audio podcast, "The Birth Hour."* About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: <a href="http://www.sparklestories.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.sparklestories.com</a> Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

Story#11: "New Brother (New Sister): a Story about Welcoming the New Baby"

In today's story: *This bonus story is in honor of today's historic election. We wanted to give parents and classrooms a basis to talk about the election, leadership, and what it means to be a citizen. As we post this story, the US is electing its next president.* Once there was a land that was ruled by a Council of Fools. And in this land, to be a Fool was a position of honor and respect – that is, until the Fools began to forget how to juggle, dance, sing and perform magic. Luckily, a new Fool from a distant province arrives to transform the dry and serious members of the council back into being true Fools – rather than simply being foolish.

In today's story: *This bonus story is in honor of today's historic election. We wanted to give parents and classrooms a basis to talk about the election, leadership, and what it means to be a citizen. As we post this story, the US is electing its next president.* Once there was a land that was ruled by a Council of Fools. And in this land, to be a Fool was a position of honor and respect – that is, until the Fools began to forget how to juggle, dance, sing and perform magic. Luckily, a new Fool from a distant province arrives to transform the dry and serious members of the council back into being true Fools – rather than simply being foolish.

Bonus Story: "The Council of Fools"

In today's story: “The Fischer from the Top Branch” is a story about an election. A water hole in the Serengeti plains needs a leader who will represent all creatures who need water. So - a ‘Prefect’ is elected every wet season to monitor the water and make sure everyone is served. But choosing the ‘Prefect’ is often contentious. This year the choice is between a Fischer’s Lovebird and a Leopard - and the election is emotional, ridden with conflict and indeed, personal. In the end the Lovebird is elected - but she immediately sees the need for healing - the need for the creatures to unite again. Luckily, she flies to the top branch of a nearby acacia tree and is able to see the land and all its creatures together. And that image helps her know what to do. About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

In today's story: “The Fischer from the Top Branch” is a story about an election. A water hole in the Serengeti plains needs a leader who will represent all creatures who need water. So - a ‘Prefect’ is elected every wet season to monitor the water and make sure everyone is served. But choosing the ‘Prefect’ is often contentious. This year the choice is between a Fischer’s Lovebird and a Leopard - and the election is emotional, ridden with conflict and indeed, personal. In the end the Lovebird is elected - but she immediately sees the need for healing - the need for the creatures to unite again. Luckily, she flies to the top branch of a nearby acacia tree and is able to see the land and all its creatures together. And that image helps her know what to do. About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: <a href="http://www.sparklestories.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.sparklestories.com</a> Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

Bonus Story: "The Fischer from the Top Branch"

In today's story: Georgio Mangiapane wants to make the best Buccelleti in all of New York City. And so, having heard of the magical blueberries of the northeastern coast, he travels to Maine to find the perfect ingredient. But a bear interrupts his dream, and it’s not New York that gets to enjoy his incredible pastries, but the families of Tullyport. Thus begins the tastiest of the Tullyport Christmas traditions. *This story is the subject of our conversation about family traditions based around the 12 Days of Christmas with Meredith Markow, teacher, therapist – and "Head of School" for Sparkle Stories.* About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

In today's story: Georgio Mangiapane wants to make the best Buccelleti in all of New York City. And so, having heard of the magical blueberries of the northeastern coast, he travels to Maine to find the perfect ingredient. But a bear interrupts his dream, and it’s not New York that gets to enjoy his incredible pastries, but the families of Tullyport. Thus begins the tastiest of the Tullyport Christmas traditions. *This story is the subject of our conversation about family traditions based around the 12 Days of Christmas with Meredith Markow, teacher, therapist – and "Head of School" for Sparkle Stories.* About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: <a href="http://www.sparklestories.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.sparklestories.com</a> Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

Story#8:  "Tullyport Christmas – Tale Nine: Blueberry Buccelleti"

Marta Bauer

In today’s story: When conflict comes to Dry Gables — when there are arguments, disagreements or blocks in the road to peace — the people of Dry Gables go to one place: Marta Bauer's bakery. Somehow she always knows what to make, what to say and how to listen — and conflicts simply... dissolve. This is truly tested one day when a family of Chinese immigrants arrives in Dry Gables and the town is divided about next steps. Some want to honor the restrictive law of the land and others wish to welcome them with open arms. What to do? Get the baker.   *This story is the subject of our conversation with Meredith Markow, teacher and therapist – and “Head of School” for Sparkle Stories. The story demonstrates how to listen, how to empathize, and how to resolve conflict in a gentle way.*   About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: www.sparklestories.com Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! info@sparklestories.com Enjoy!

In today’s story: When conflict comes to Dry Gables — when there are arguments, disagreements or blocks in the road to peace — the people of Dry Gables go to one place: Marta Bauer's bakery. Somehow she always knows what to make, what to say and how to listen — and conflicts simply... dissolve. This is truly tested one day when a family of Chinese immigrants arrives in Dry Gables and the town is divided about next steps. Some want to honor the restrictive law of the land and others wish to welcome them with open arms. What to do? Get the baker. *This story is the subject of our conversation with Meredith Markow, teacher and therapist – and “Head of School” for Sparkle Stories. The story demonstrates how to listen, how to empathize, and how to resolve conflict in a gentle way.* About SparkleCast: SparkleCast explores the use of story in parenting and education. One week we share a free story for you to enjoy, and the next week we discuss the story with an expert and thought leader – with the aim of using the story (and all stories) as a parenting and educational tool. For more stories and tutorials, visit the Sparkle website: <a href="http://www.sparklestories.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.sparklestories.com</a> Questions? Ideas? Requests? Email us! <a href="mailto:info@sparklestories.com">info@sparklestories.com</a> Enjoy!

Story#4: "Marta Bauer: Baker and Peacemaker"

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