empathy – The Lerner Blog

My Friend Julia: An Interview with Author Jennifer Cook

Everyone experiences the world a little differently! In the new book My Friend Julia: A Sesame Street ® Book about Autism young readers meet a very special friend named Julia. Julia is an autistic girl who loves art, building, and starfish hugs. Being autistic means she thinks and plays in her own wonderful ways. Continue […]Read more

Reading Builds Strong Social-Emotional Skills

As a teacher, I have used picture books, poetry, memoirs, fiction and nonfiction books to help my students build empathy, social awareness, self-awareness, and self-management skills. Diverse texts and voices help students learn and develop the social and emotional skills they need to succeed not only in school, but in the world beyond. Here are […]Read more

Author Interviews

Be a Bridge: An Interview with Authors Irene Latham and Charles Waters

Inclusivity, respect, and connection: these are the keys to a positive environment and healthy relationships. The brand new picture book Be a Bridge uses upbeat rhyming verse and colorful illustrations of a diverse group of students to help bring young readers together. Acclaimed authors Irene Latham and Charles Waters use this book to bring key […]Read more

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