Helping Kids Build Social Skills, Confidence & Connection with Cara Zelas

Have you ever wondered how to help your child develop the social skills they need to thrive?

In this uplifting episode of The Lil' Leaders Podcast, host Tina Shepardson talks with early childhood educator and author Cara Zelas, creator of the beloved Big World of Little Dude series. Together, they explore practical ways parents and educators can support children as they navigate friendships, emotions, communication, and everyday challenges.

Cara shares why emotional intelligence for kids is such an important part of growing up and how simple everyday conversations can help children understand their feelings, make thoughtful choices, and connect with others. She also shares strategies for teaching empathy to children, encouraging kindness, and developing communication skills with kids.

As children learn to navigate friendships and social situations, parents can play an important role in building confidence in kids. Cara explains how positive relationships and intentional conversations can help children develop positive friendships with kids, greater independence, and the resilience they need when things don't go as planned.

Cara also introduces listeners to Little Dude, her therapy dog, who helps children build confidence, connection, and emotional awareness in classroom settings.

If you're looking for practical ways to support your child's social and emotional growth, this episode is filled with ideas you can use at home, at school, and in everyday moments. You'll discover simple ways to help your child understand emotions, connect with others, and become one of those resilient kids who can face challenges with confidence and care.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Why social skills for children are just as important as academic skills
• How parents can help kids understand and manage their emotions
• Simple ways to teach empathy, kindness, and communication skills
• How positive friendships can help children build confidence
• Why emotional intelligence helps children become more resilient
• How everyday conversations can become opportunities for learning
• How Little Dude, Cara's therapy dog, helps children feel connected and supported
• Ways parents and educators can encourage independence and responsible decision-making

Talk About It Together: Questions for Families:

1. What are some everyday moments when kids can have big feelings?
2. How can connection help kids handle big feelings and tough behavior?
3. Why is it important to let kids make mistakes and learn from them?
4. How can we as parents and educators give kids chances to practice real-life skills?
5. What skills can kids learn now that will help them for years to come?

Visit the Lil' Leaders Club for free resources, book recommendations, fun downloadable activities, and ideas you can use with your child at home or in the classroom.

Key Takeaways:

Social skills can be taught. Children need opportunities to practice communication, empathy, kindness, problem-solving, and navigating friendships.

Connection matters. When children feel understood, supported, and connected, they are better equipped to build confidence and handle challenges.

Everyday moments are learning opportunities. Conversations about feelings, friendships, and choices can help children develop emotional intelligence and a positive mindset.

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Are you ready to help your child as they embark on a new school year filled with excitement and uncertainty? Join host Tina Shepardson in this enlightening episode of The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with Confident, Connected, and Resilient Kids, where she shares invaluable insights on fostering the essential qualities of confidence, connection, and resilience in children. As families transition into this new chapter, Tina explores the emotional landscape that often accompanies it, emphasizing the importance of nurturing strong relationships through open conversations and casual check-ins that encourage communication.

Tina highlights three pivotal areas for families to focus on: connection, confidence, and consistency. By prioritizing connection, parents can create an environment where their children feel safe to express their feelings and navigate their emotions. This is crucial for developing emotional intelligence in children, which plays a significant role in their ability to form friendships and handle challenges. Through effective communication and authentic kids conversations, families can strengthen their bonds and foster a sense of belonging.

Building confidence is another key theme in this episode. Tina encourages parents to allow their kids to face new challenges independently, promoting a growth mindset that empowers them to find solutions on their own. By stepping back and providing support without solving problems for them, parents can help their children develop resilience and a sense of responsibility. This approach not only builds confidence but also teaches kids valuable strategies for making choices and overcoming obstacles.

Consistency is equally important as children navigate their school year. Establishing reliable routines can help kids feel secure and prepared, allowing them to thrive in their learning environments. Tina introduces her new resource, The Little Leaders Club, which offers practical tools and tips for families aiming to cultivate skills like empathy, kindness, and effective communication. This resource is designed to support parents in raising confident and resilient kids, equipping them with the tools they need to succeed.

Throughout the episode, Tina invites listeners to remember the three C's: connection, confidence, and consistency, as they guide their children through this important transition. Whether you're seeking parenting tips for confidence, insights on encouraging independence in children, or strategies for fostering emotional intelligence, this episode is packed with relatable and actionable advice. Tune in and discover how to nurture the young leaders in your life, helping them grow into confident, connected, and resilient individuals ready to have a wonderful new school year!

Starting a new school year can bring excitement, nervousness, and plenty of change. In this episode, Tina shares three simple areas families can focus on to help kids feel more confident and connected:

• Connection: Simple ways to create meaningful conversations and let kids know you're there to listen.
• Confidence: How to support kids as they face new challenges without always solving problems for them.
• Consistency: How simple routines and clear expectations can help kids feel more comfortable and prepared.

Visit The Lil' Leaders Club for free, practical resources designed to help kids build confidence, communication, problem-solving, perseverance, empathy, and connection.

You'll find activities, conversation starters, printable resources, picture book ideas, and a self-confidence song list for kids to enjoy together.

• Connection comes first. Look for e...

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In this special episode, 6th grade students from Pueblo Middle School share honest conversations about the real-life challenges and experiences kids face during the middle school years. From handling stress and pressure to building confidence, communication skills, community, and responsible decision-making, students explore important life skills that can help kids navigate this stage of life with growth and authenticity.

Through personal insights, thoughtful discussions, and relatable experiences, these students offer encouragement and practical ideas for other kids learning to manage friendships, expectations, emotions, and everyday challenges along the way.

Cool Q's For Discussion:

• What is one thing kids can do to help someone feel included at school or in a group?

• When you start to feel overwhelmed or stressed, what helps you calm down or reset?

• Can you share a time when you struggled with something at first but improved because you kept trying?

• Why do you think listening is just as important as speaking when talking with friends, classmates, or family?

• What is something about yourself that makes you proud to be uniquely you?

• What are some ways kids can use technology and social media in a kind, safe, and responsible way?

• What is your main takeaway from today's episode?

  What is your main takeaway from today's episode?

Have a great week everyone!

Keep Leading and Keep Reading,

Tina

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Meet Laila, a 4th grader from Texas and the 2025 Junior Preteen State Title Holder with International United Miss — but her biggest title might just be "The Bright Light in the Room."

After experiencing what it feels like when kids don't accept differences, Laila made a powerful choice. Instead of shrinking back, she let that experience become her superpower. She's now on a mission to help kids recognize everyone's worth through KREW — Kids Recognizing Everyone's Worth — and by writing her very first children's book, The Buddy Bench, a story about making sure no child ever feels alone.

Laila shares how she turned hurt into purpose, why celebrating differences brings us together (not apart), and how even one child can spark change in a school community. When she's not dancing, crafting, or enjoying school, she's finding ways to spread joy wherever she goes.

This episode is a reminder that leadership doesn't depend on age — it starts with heart.

Picture Book Recommendations:

a. The Buddy Bench

Author: Laila LaRue Lewis Illustrator: QBN Studios

What if a friendship bench at recess could change a child's day — or even their life?

The Buddy Bench is a heartwarming children's picture book that teaches young readers the importance of kindness, friendship, and inclusion. Inspired by real-life buddy benches found on school playgrounds, this story helps children understand that everyone deserves to feel seen, valued, and supported.

When a child sits on the buddy bench, it's a brave step toward connection and friendship. Through gentle storytelling and relatable moments, children learn how small acts of kindness can make a big difference--and how choosing to include others creates stronger, more compassionate communities.

b. Be Kind

Author: Pat Zietlow Miller Illustrator: Thérèse Plummer

When Tanisha spills grape juice all over her new dress, her classmate wants to make her feel better, wondering: What does it mean to be kind?

From asking the new girl to play to standing up for someone being bullied, this moving story explores what kindness is, and how any act, big or small, can make a difference―or at least help a friend.

With a gentle text from the award-winning author of Sophie's Squash, Pat Zietlow Miller, Be Kind is an unforgettable story about how two simple words can change the world.

Cool Q's For Discussion:

• Laila turned a hard experience into her superpower. What is something hard in your life that could become your strength?

• What does it mean to "recognize everyone's worth"? What might that look like at school?

• If your school had a Buddy Bench, how could you help make sure no one feels alone?

• How can celebrating differences actually bring people closer together?

• If you created your own version of KREW, what would your group stand for?

• What is your main takeaway from Laila's episode?

Have a great week everyone!

Keep Leading and Keep Reading,

Tina

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What happens when a teacher, a love of reading, and a rescue puppy come together?

This week on the Lil' Leaders Podcast, we're thrilled to feature a special Big Leader episode with teacher, author, and rescue advocate Elizabeth Retter, who shares how rescuing Easton as a puppy from Pennsylvania and bringing him home to Canada changed her life in the most unexpected ways.

After one unforgettable morning — when Easton confidently made his way to a local deli on his own — Liz realized their journey was about more than rescue. It was about creating meaningful stories that help kids love reading and inspire families to consider rescue.

She also shares how kids and families can make a difference through volunteering, fostering, donating, or adopting.

Picture Book Recommendations:

a. The Dog in the Deli (The Adventures of Easton the Rescue Pet,1)

Author: Elizabeth Retter Illustrator: Izzy Bean

This heartwarming story introduces us to Easton on the first of his many adventures with his owner Elizabeth Retter and her family.

One morning, Easton wakes up to some terrible news: due to the pandemic, there is a meat shortage! In a panic, Easton takes matters into his own paws and escapes across a busy city street to the neighborhood deli. Easton's family, the deli, and its customers have no idea what they are in for―then again, neither does Easton! This is the true story of a rescue dog who loves a good adventure.

b. Homeward Bound (The Adventures of Easton the Rescue Pet,2)

Author: Elizabeth Retter Illustrator: Izzy Bean

Easton is a rescue dog who was born in Pennsylvania and adopted by the author, Elizabeth, and her family in Toronto, Canada. Based on personal experience, this story follows Easton on a new adventure as he travels to meet his new family and settles into his new home. The book stresses the importance of adopting rescue pets, and will be a fabulous read aloud for dog lovers ― and their companion children ― to enjoy. Homeward Bound is only the beginning of Easton's adventures, with more books coming in 2025.

c. Puppy School Pandemonium (The Adventures of Easton the Rescue Pet,3)

Author: Elizabeth Retter Illustrator: Izzy Bean

Ready for a tail-wagging adventure? Easton, the lovable rescue pup, is about to tackle his biggest challenge yet―puppy school! From learning new tricks to meeting furry friends, Easton's excitement might just get the best of him. Cheer Easton on while he discovers the importance of patience, perseverance, and second chances. Will Easton stay on track long enough to graduate?

d. Christmas Capers (The Adventures of Easton the Rescue Pet,4)

Author: Elizabeth Retter Illustrator: Izzy Bean

Cool Q's For Discussion:

1. What do you think Liz learned about herself after rescuing Easton?

2. Why do you think stories can help people care more about rescue animals?

3. If you were going to help a local animal shelter, what is one small step you could take with your family?

4. What does "second chance" mean to you — for animals or for people?

5. How can loving to read help you make a difference in the world?

6. What is your main take away from today's episode with Liz & Easton?

Have a great week everyone!

Keep Leading and Keep Reading,

Tina...

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IIn this Big Leader episode, we welcome back author and special educator, Celia Botto about her upcoming picture book, The Ostrich Needs a Lift.

Meet an ostrich who doesn't quite fit the mold and is trying to find his way back—only to discover that finding the right ride isn't easy. The ostrich is well aware of any accommodations he may need to get home safely. In fact, despite the setbacks he faces, the ostrich keeps going and young readers see perseverance in action.

Celia also shares the thoughtful layer of the story involving a boy who discovers the ostrich and makes a powerful leadership choice: to act rather than react. Through empathy, courage, and problem-solving, the boy shows what it means to step up when someone else needs help.

With bright, colorful illustrations and a relatable message, this episode is a fun and hope-filled conversation about persevering through challenges, showing empathy, and taking action when it matters most.

Picture Book Recommendations:

a. The Snurtch

Author: Sean Ferrell Illustrator: Charles Santoso

Some days are Snurtch days. Ruthie is having one of those. She has a problem at school. It is not the students. It is not the classroom. It is not the reading or the writing or the math. It is something scribbly, scrunchy, grabby, burpy, and rude. It is the Snurtch. This clever picture book takes a discerning look at the challenges of behaving and controlling your emotions—especially when your own personal monster keeps getting in the way.

Author: Mr. Jay Illustrator: Erin Wozniak

From zippy little pebbles to big strong boulders, the rock friends get together to play and roll around their favorite hill, only to find that one of their friends, Ricky, can't roll with them. Unlike all of the other rocks, who are all round, Ricky can't roll because he's flat on one side. Determined not to leave their friend behind, the rocks set out to help Ricky roll - one way or another.

Cool Q's For Discussion:

1. Have you ever felt like you didn't quite "fit in"? What helped you keep going anyway?

2. If you found the ostrich, what is the first helpful action you would take?

3. What does it mean to act instead of react when someone needs help?

4. Why do you think perseverance is important when things don't go as planned?

5. Who is someone in your life that shows empathy through their actions?

6. What is your main take away from today's episode with Celia?

Have a great week everyone!

Keep Leading and Keep Reading,

Tina

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In our first 2026 episode, Mason shares how his love for acting, football, and basketball keeps him energized and motivated every day. He opens up about why treating others the way you want to be treated is the foundation of real leadership, and how staying active helps him stay confident. When life feels busy or overwhelming, Mason turns to deep breaths and drawing to calm his mind before jumping back into the activities he loves. His message to other kids is simple but powerful: anything you do can inspire someone else — so keep showing the world what's possible. Listen to Mason's episode and be reminded that leadership starts with kindness and inclusion.

Picture Book Recommendations:

a. Hurry Up!: A Book About Slowing Down

Author: Kate Dopirak Illustrator: Christopher Silas Neal

A busy boy and his dog learn to slow down and enjoy life together in this lyrical, rhyming picture book perfect for hurried families everywhere. For one busy boy, life is all hurry up, hurry down, hurry round and round and round! That is until he takes a big breath...and a big break...and slows down to see all the wonderful things in the world around him.

Author: Maria Dismondy Illustrator: Kim Shaw

Lucy has big hair, eats fun foods and is teased by a boy named Ralph at school because she is different. She tries to be brave but she wishes the teasing would stop. What should I do? she asks herself over and over.

Lucy's Papa Gino reminds her to do the right thing and treat people with kindness. So when Ralph gets stuck on the playground and needs help, will Lucy use this chance to teach Ralph a lesson? Or will she have the courage to be true to herself and make the right choice with an act of kindness?

Readers of all ages can empathize with Lucy's brave journey as she sets out to rise above Ralph's mean words, stay true to herself and build her self-esteem every step of the way.

Cool Q's For Discussion:

1. What helps you calm down when life feels busy or overwhelming?

2. What's one way you showed kindness or fairness to someone this week?

3. What activities make you feel energized and confident?

4. Who inspires you, and how do you try to inspire others?

5. Can you think of a time when you helped someone feel included? What happened?

6. What is your main take away from today's episode with Mason?

Have a great week everyone!

Keep Leading and Keep Reading,

Tina

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Meet Allie, a third grader whose love for dance, modeling, and the arts shines as bright as her smile! Whether she's learning new dance moves with friends or helping others master theirs, Allie's enthusiasm and kindness make her a true Lil' Leader. She embraces every challenge in her dance classes and believes in following big dreams—like one day becoming a doctor.

Tune in to hear how Allie's creativity, confidence, and caring heart inspire everyone around her to keep learning and growing.

Picture Book Recommendations:

a. Most Marshmallows

Author & Illustrator: Rowboat Watkins

Most marshmallows are born into marshmallow families, play with marshmallow friends, and go to marshmallow school where they learn to be squishy. Most marshmallows read a book before bed and then fall asleep to dream ordinary marshmallow dreams. But, this book isn't about most marshamallows, is it? No. That's because author Rowboat Watkins knows that, just like you, some marshmallows have big dreams, and just like you, these marshmallows can do anything they set their minds to. This sweet and silly book is an inspiring reminder to everyone that by being true to ourselves, each of us has the power to be extraordinary. Whether for a new parent or a recent graduate, the message here will fit the bill.

Author & Illustrator: Bob Staake

On this playfully illustrated journey with Bob Staake, children and adults alike will discover an encouraging truth: our path through life is not only challenging and beautiful—it is all our own to discover and invent. "You will walk. You will walk along a well-worn path that many people have taken—and long before you." So begins this inspirational journey over gentle, grassy hills, through fields of wildflowers, over raging rivers, up steep mountains, and even through a dark, chilly cave. When it splits in two, you will have to decide what to do next—and you'll create a path that's unique to you.

Cool Q's For Discussion:

1. What's something creative you love to do, just like Allie?

2. How do you feel when you try a new skill or hobby?

3. Who's someone you've helped learn something new recently?

4. What big dream do you have for your future?

5. Why do you think helping others can make you a stronger leader?

6. What is your main take away from today's episode with Allie?

Have a great week everyone!

Keep Leading and Keep Reading,

Tina

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