In this episode of Picture This, join Adam Lehrhaupt as we explore the incredible power of picture books to address tough topics and spark meaningful conversations in the classroom and beyond. Discover how these seemingly simple stories can help navigate complex themes like grief, identity, environmentalism, justice, and anxiety, providing a safe space for emotional growth for all ages.

We dive deep into:

• Why picture books are perfect for discussing difficult subjects with students of all ages (from elementary to high school and even adults!).
• How stories like "There Was a Hole" by Adam Lehrhaupt and Carrie O'Neill help children (and adults) explore big emotions and deal with what's missing.
• The insights "The Blue House" by Phoebe Wall offers on change, displacement, and emotional safety.
• "What If Pig" by Lindsay Hunter's approach to anxiety, worry, and the importance of friendship.
• "The Proudest Blue" by Ibtihaj Muhammad & SK Ali, illustrated by Hatem Ali, for exploring identity, confidence, and sibling relationships.

Download your FREE "Big Ideas Teaching Pack" today! This valuable resource includes activity ideas, a complete list of the books discussed, and reflection prompts to help you integrate these powerful picture books into your teaching.
➡️ Get your teaching pack here: https://adamlehrhaupt.com/teachers-guides-2/

What tough topic have you successfully explored with a picture book? Share your experiences in the comments below using #PictureThisPodcast!

Chapters
00:00 Welcome: Picture Books for Tough Topics
00:46 Why Picture Books Aren't Just for Kids
01:38 Deep Dives: Big Ideas for All Ages
02:27 The Safety & Speed of Picture Books
03:52 Book 1: There Was a Hole by Adam Lehrhaupt
06:21 Activity: Create Your Own Emotional Metaphor
07:44 Book 2: The Blue House by Phoebe Wall
08:44 Activity: What Makes You Feel Safe?
10:52 Book 3: What If Pig by Lindsay Hunter
11:51 Activity: The "What If" Wall for Worries
13:17 Today's Sponsor: Tissues & Teaching Pack
14:04 Book 4: The Proudest Blue by Ibtihaj Muhammad & SK Ali
15:15 Activity: Great Things About Me Gallery
16:16 Story Spark: What Part of You Matters Most?
17:34 Listener Challenge: Start a Tough Conversation
18:17 Closing: Giving Kids the Language
18:50 Free Download & Connect With Us

Explore More & Connect:
Check out Adam's books: https://adamlehrhaupt.com/adam-lehrhaupt-books/
Sign up for our newsletter for more teaching tips and podcast updates: https://adamlehrhaupt.com/newsletter-signup
Listen to other episodes of the Picture This Podcast: https://adamlehrhaupt.com/podcast/

Subscribe to Picture This for more strategies that turn stories into classroom success!

#PictureBooks #ToughTopics #SocialEmotionalLearning #ClassroomStrategies #Grief #Identity #Anxiety #SEL #EducationPodcast #AdamLehrhaupt #Literacy #ChildrensBooks #TeachingResources