Shows
Raising ThinkersE42: Supporting Your Child Through the College Essay Process with Carter OsborneIf you’ve ever wondered how to really prepare your child for the college essay years before they apply… this one’s for you.
In my podcast conversation with Carter (a college essay coach and reflective writing advocate of https://www.carterosbornetutoring.com), we dive into:
– Why students struggle with the “Tell us about yourself” prompt
– How AI is tempting, but not a substitute for real thinking
– What parents can do now (yes, even with an 8-year-old!)
Spoiler: It’s not about cramming in more activities.
It’s about making space for reflection.
2025-06-1125 minRaising ThinkersE41 Chores for Children: Building Responsibility from the StartIn this episode of Raising Thinkers, host Shelley discusses the importance of chores in child development. She emphasizes how chores can help children build independence, responsibility, and a strong work ethic from a young age. Shelley provides age-appropriate chore suggestions and encourages parents to celebrate their children's efforts, fostering a sense of belonging and teamwork within the family. Subscribe or check out the Raising Thinkers website for more content.
2025-05-2108 minRaising ThinkersE40 Supporting Multilingualism with Beth Vaucher of Inspiring Young LearnersIn this engaging conversation, Shelley Love De Feliu and Beth Vaucher of Inspiring Young Learners explore the importance of supporting multilingual learners. Beth shares her journey as an educator and her passion for helping students embrace their cultural identities while learning new languages. The discussion covers practical strategies for parents and teachers, emphasizing the significance of curiosity, kindness, and connection in fostering a rich learning environment for multilingual children.
Check it out on our website: https://www.raisingthinkerspodcast.com/
2025-04-2320 minRaising ThinkersE39 Obstacle Courses: Building Skills through PlayRead blog episode:
https://www.raisingthinkerspodcast.com/e39-obstacle-courses-building-skills-through-play
Obstacle courses = fun + thinking skills! 🏃♀️
They boost problem-solving, creativity & goal-setting—all while getting kids moving! No fancy equipment needed, just imagination.
2025-04-0808 min
Equipping ELLs173. Unlocking Student Potential through Visible Thinking with Shelley Love de FeliúIn this episode of the Equipping ELLs Podcast, host Beth Vaucher is joined by Shelley Love de Feliú, an experienced educator and math instructional coach with over 18 years of experience in the field. Shelley is the founder of Raising Thinkers and Raising Mathematicians, where she focuses on helping parents and educators nurture curiosity and critical thinking, especially in math. Together, they dive into the powerful concept of visible thinking, an educational framework that makes students' thinking processes visible and accessible.Shelley shares valuable insights into how visible thinking strategies can support multilingual learners, making learning more inclusive a...2025-04-0426 minRaising ThinkersE38 The Power of Rhymes and Songs: Setting the Stage for Reading Success Rhymes & songs aren’t just fun—they build early reading skills! From phonemic awareness to decoding words, these playful moments lay the foundation for strong readers. Tune in to learn how! #RaisingThinkers #EarlyLiteracy
Full episode: https://www.raisingthinkerspodcast.com/e38-the-power-of-rhymes-and-songs-setting-the-stage-for-reading-success-2/
2025-03-1310 minRaising ThinkersE37 Fort Building to Develop Thinkers Blanket forts, stick hideouts, and cardboard castles—fort building isn’t just fun, it’s brain-boosting! Kids develop spatial reasoning, problem-solving & creativity while playing. Embrace the mess & the magic! #RaisingThinkers #FortBuildingFun
https://www.raisingthinkerspodcast.com/e37-fort-building-to-develop-thinkers/
2025-02-2605 minRaising ThinkersE36 Making Thinking Visible at HomeIn this episode of Raising Thinkers, Shelly discusses the importance of visible thinking routines from Harvard's Project Zero, which can help children develop deeper thinking skills. She explains the history of Project Zero and introduces several effective thinking routines, including 'What Makes You Say That?', 'See, Think, Wonder', and 'Think, Pair, Share'. These routines encourage children to articulate their reasoning, observe their surroundings, and engage in thoughtful conversations, ultimately fostering critical thinking and curiosity in everyday situations.
View: https://pz.harvard.edu/thinking-routines
Visit: https://www.raisingthinkerspodcast.com/e36-making-thinking-visible-at-home/
2025-02-1109 min
Raising ThinkersE35: Ten Ideas for Holiday Fun as a Family🎄✨ Looking for festive, fun, and budget-friendly ways to keep your kids learning, thinking, and creating this holiday season? From baking to scavenger hunts, advent puzzles, and more, discover 10 meaningful activities that spark joy and build memories. 🎁🧠 Check out the latest episode of Raising Thinkers now!
https://www.raisingthinkerspodcast.com/s2-e35-ten-ideas-for-holiday-fun-as-a-family/
2024-12-1108 min
Raising ThinkersE34: Deciphering Teacher Language on Report CardsReport card season is here! 📝 Ever puzzled by phrases like 'developing resilience' or 'shows originality'? 🤔 Let's decode 'teacherese' together! Get tips to understand feedback & ask the right questions to support your child. Join us on Raising Thinkers!
https://www.raisingthinkerspodcast.com//s2-e34-deciphering-teacher-language-on-report-cards/
2024-12-0508 min
Raising ThinkersE33 The Wonder of Holiday Traditions✨ The holidays are magical, especially through a child’s eyes! Traditions like decorating, baking, or family movie nights create lasting memories. What are your favorites? Let’s inspire each other this season—share your ideas in the Raising Thinkers Community! 🎄🎉
Link:
https://www.raisingthinkerspodcast.com/s2-e33-the-wonder-of-holiday-traditions/
2024-11-2712 min
Raising ThinkersE32: How to Pick a School for Your ChildFinding the right school for your child is no small feat! 🎓 From educational philosophy to safety, these key questions will help you make the best choice for your family. 🏫✨ Join the Raising Thinkers Community for a handy checklist!
https://www.raisingthinkerspodcast.com/s2-e32-how-to-pick-a-school-for-your-child/
2024-11-2026 min
Raising ThinkersE31: Developing Flexible MathematiciansMath has come a long way! 🧠 From rigid steps to flexible, creative problem-solving, today’s math is all about building true understanding. Want tips to support your child’s math journey? Join our Raising Thinkers community!
https://www.raisingthinkerspodcast.com/s2-e31-developing-flexible-mathematicians/
2024-11-1311 min
Raising ThinkersE30: Talking with Your Kids About PoliticsWondering how to talk about politics with your kids after the election? Our latest post has age-appropriate ways to foster respect, model civil discourse, and help kids understand voting! 🌍
https://www.raisingthinkerspodcast.com/s2-e30-talking-with-your-kids-about-politics/
2024-11-0608 minRaising ThinkersE29: RAFT Strategy for Developing Creativity and EmpathyBoost creativity & critical thinking in kids with the RAFT strategy! 🧠 Choose a Role, Audience, Format, and Topic to spark new perspectives. Whether they’re a scientist talking to pets or a teacher giving directions, RAFT makes learning fun & engaging! https://www.raisingthinkerspodcast.com/
2024-10-3009 min
Raising ThinkersE28: Games for Every Moment... Even in the CarSummary
In this episode of Raising Thinkers, Shelley discusses engaging, no-materials-required games that parents can play with their kids while on the go. These games not only entertain but also promote critical thinking, observation skills, and learning without the kids even realizing it. From classic games like 20 Questions and I Spy to more challenging activities like mental math and word association, Shelley provides a variety of options suitable for different age groups. She also encourages parents to share their favorite games and highlights the importance of community and resources for nurturing creativity in children.
...2024-10-2308 min
Raising ThinkersE27: SCAMPER: A Strategy for Creative and Divergent ThinkingIn this episode of Raising Thinkers, Shelly discusses the importance of fostering creativity in children and introduces the SCAMPER strategy as a structured way to encourage creative thinking. SCAMPER stands for Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify, Put to Another Use, Eliminate, and Reverse, each representing a method to inspire divergent thinking. Shelly provides practical examples for each component, emphasizing how these techniques can be applied in storytelling, problem-solving, and everyday situations. The conversation highlights the value of open-ended exploration and the joy of discovering innovative ideas through collaboration with children.
Get full resources at:
https://www...2024-10-1709 minRaising ThinkersE26: Prepping for Parent-Teacher Conferences: What Parents Really Need to Know🎙️ New Episode! 🎙️
In Ep 26 of Raising Thinkers, I’m sharing key questions and tips to help you make the most of your parent-teacher conferences! Get valuable insights and support your child’s success. Perfect for busy parents! 👩🏫👨👩👦 #Parenting #Education #RaisingThinkers
https://www.raisingthinkerspodcast.com/s2-e26-prepping-for-parent-teacher-conferences-what-parents-really-need-to-know/
2024-10-1009 minRaising ThinkersE25: Surviving Moving Day with KidsSummary
In this episode of Raising Thinkers, the host shares personal experiences and practical tips for families moving with children. The conversation covers the challenges of relocating, the importance of asking for help, and strategies to keep kids engaged and emotionally supported during the transition. The host emphasizes the need for preparation, involvement of children in the moving process, and maintaining routines to ease the adjustment. The episode concludes with encouragement for families to view moving as an adventure and an opportunity for growth.
Website link: https://www.raisingthinkerspodcast.com/s2-e25-surviving-moving-day-with-kids/
2024-10-0110 min
Raising ThinkersE24: AI, Will Robots Take Over Education?Summary
In this episode, Shelly discusses the impact of AI on education and parenting, sharing insights on how AI can enhance creativity, streamline tasks, and the ethical considerations surrounding its use. She provides practical advice for parents and educators on integrating AI into their lives and highlights several AI tools that can be beneficial for both teaching and learning.
https://www.raisingthinkerspodcast.com/s2-e24-ai-will-robots-take-over-education/
2024-09-2516 min
Raising ThinkersE23: To Do or Not to Do: HomeworkIn this episode, I dive into the often dreaded topic of homework. We explore the research behind homework’s pros and cons, discuss how much is too much, and share tips for parents navigating homework challenges at home. I also reflect on my experiences as a teacher and provide insights on how to support your child's learning journey effectively. Whether you’re pro-homework or against it, this episode offers a balanced perspective on the ongoing debate.
Download material here:
https://www.raisingthinkerspodcast.com/s2-e23-to-do-or-not-to-do-homework/
2024-09-1714 min
Raising ThinkersE22: The Art of Gift Giving
In this episode of Raising Thinkers, the host discusses the art of gift-giving and how it can be a valuable tool for developing a child's critical thinking skills. Drawing from personal experiences, including a recent birthday celebration for her husband, she explains how children can engage in thoughtful processes like considering a recipient's preferences, budgeting, and decision-making. She emphasizes the importance of teaching children to observe, reflect, and plan, and how this can also serve as a fun and meaningful way to introduce concepts like time awareness and financial literacy.
Join the Raising Thinkers community for exclusive c...2024-09-1005 min
Raising ThinkersE21: Please and Thank You: Manners MatterSummary
Civility and politeness are important in society, and it is crucial for parents to teach their children these values. Politeness leads to respect and appreciation from others, and it sets a standard for expected behavior. Modeling polite behavior and prompting children to say please and thank you are effective ways to develop these habits. Writing thank you notes by hand is also a valuable practice. It is important to consider cultural differences in expectations of politeness and teach children to be sensitive and aware of different cultures. By modeling and setting high expectations, parents can raise...2024-09-0409 min
Raising ThinkersE20: Party PlanningSummary:
In this episode, Shelley introduces the new season of Raising Thinkers and emphasizes the importance of raising children who can think critically and make informed decisions. She suggests involving children in party planning as a way to develop their thinking skills. Shelley shares her own experience of allowing her three-year-old daughter to help with party planning, highlighting the importance of age-appropriate involvement. She encourages parents to gradually give their children more ownership over the planning process and provides a template for party planning. Shelley also mentions the benefits of research and decision-making skills that children can develop through...2024-08-2607 minEquipping ELLs20. Identifying and Supporting Gifted and Exceptional ELLs with Guest Shelley Feliú-Love“There’s a slight bias towards the Asian population being more identified [as gifted]. It goes back to being open from the very start and saying, ‘Hey, all of my students could be these high achieving gifted students, but I need to look at all of them with that attitude and set the bar high so they can show me what they can do.’” -Shelley Feliú-LoveToday’s guest is one of the most incredible educators that I’ve ever met. I’ve had the opportunity to work with her, and I invited her to come on the show today...2022-04-2936 min
Raising ThinkersE19: Cuál es tú pasión?Investigar algo que nos apasiona y disfrutamos nos brinda un gran placer, y no es diferente con nuestros hijos. ¿Qué pasa si les dejamos profundizar en algo que realmente quieren aprender? Este episodio te brinda una guía práctica sobre cómo ayudar a tu hijo en este proceso.
2020-09-0206 min
Raising ThinkersE19: What's Your Passion?Digging into something we're passionate about and enjoy brings us great pleasure, and it's no different with our children. What if we let them dig into something they want to learn? This episode gives you a quick practical guide of how to help your child through this process.
2020-09-0205 min
Raising ThinkersE18: El Poder de la LecturaQuieres ayudar a tu hijo/a a disfrutar leer? Porqué es importante leer? Cómo nos ayuda? Escucha este episodio por algunas ideas!
También ahora tengo un sito de web con más sugerencias para padres y profesores: http://teach-learn-explore.weebly.com/
2020-08-1908 min
Raising ThinkersE18: The Power of ReadingWant to help develop a child who loves reading? Why bother to read at all? Take a few minutes to listen and grab a few new ideas.
Also, I've started a website with some additional tips and ideas for both parents and teachers: http://teach-learn-explore.weebly.com/
2020-08-1905 min
Raising ThinkersE17: Puedes Escapar?Que tal hacer una sala de escape en casa? Puedes ver como tu hijo puede resolver problemas y luego tu hijo puede diseñar uno para toda la familia!
2020-08-1206 min
Raising ThinkersE17: Can You Escape?What about making an escape room at home? Not only can your child use thinking skills trying to escape, but then how about if they turn it around a design one for the family?
2020-08-1204 min
Raising ThinkersE16: Las Matemáticas en Nuestras VidasYa estamos regresando a la escuela en una forma u otra... aquí hay una idea de cómo puedes ayudar a tu hijo a ver matemática como parte relevante de nuestras vidas.
2020-08-0507 min
Raising ThinkersE16: Mathematics All AroundA Back-to-School episode, with an idea of how you can make math more practical and relevant for your child.
2020-08-0505 min
Raising ThinkersE15: Resúmenes CreativosHas preguntado a tu hijo a resumir algo, especialmente escribir un resumen de algo que leyó? Qué tal hacerlo, pero en vez de escribirlo, hacerlo en una forma más creativa?
2020-07-2907 min
Raising ThinkersE15: Creative SummariesHave you ever asked your child to write a summary of what they read? How about trying some other creative, fun ways to bring it all together to consolidate their understanding?
2020-07-2905 min
Raising ThinkersE14: Cuadernos de AprendizajeCuando queremos recordar algo, lo escribimos. Podemos ayudar a nuestros hijos (incluso los pequeños de los 2-3 anos) a hacer lo mismo, pero en una manera sencilla. Escucha este episodio para algunas sugerencias.
2020-07-2205 min
Raising ThinkersE14: Learning JournalsWriting down or documenting some things we learn helps us consolidate our learning... and it is the same things with our kids. Here are a few tips for you. It doesn't need to be anything super formal, keep it simple.
2020-07-2204 min
Raising ThinkersE13: Descifrando el CódigoListo para el próximo desafío divertido para desarrollar los pensadores en tu casa? Qué tal usando mensajes en código para descifrar?
2020-07-1507 min
Raising ThinkersE13: Code BreakersReady for another fun challenge to develop thinkers around your home? How about writing messages in secret codes?
2020-07-1505 min
Raising ThinkersE12: Es Tiempo para JugarSabías que simplemente jugando juegos puede ayudar a tu hijo a desarrollar sus habilidades de pensar? Escucha este episodio para entender más y también para tips de como escoger el mejor juego para tu hijo.
2020-07-0807 min
Raising ThinkersE12: Get Your Game OnHow can simply playing games help a child develop their thinking skills? Listen to find out and also to hear tips on how to pick a good game for your child's developmental level.
2020-07-0805 min
Raising ThinkersE11: Promover la CuriosidadAlguna vez has considerado porque es una buena idea que tus niños tengan tantas preguntas? Necesitas algunas sugerencias a promover su curiosidad un poco más? Aquí hay algunas ideas para ti.
2020-07-0109 min
Raising ThinkersE11: Promote CuriosityEver wondered why it's a good idea to have kids who ask a lot of questions? Need some tips on how to cultivate their curiosity even more? Here are a few ideas for you.
2020-07-0107 min
Raising ThinkersE10: La Hora del ShowHas pensando en presentar un show en tu hogar puede preparar a tu hijo para su futuro como un pensador? Escucha y bienvenido al show!
2020-06-2406 min
Raising ThinkersE10: It's Showtime!Ever thought about how much putting on a show at home can help prepare your child for the future as a thinker? Take a listen and let the show begin!
2020-06-2404 min
Raising ThinkersE9: Igualdad, Multiculturalismo y RazaCon tensiones raciales en algunas áreas del mundo y protestas, necesitamos ser capaces de criar pensadores que puedan valorar a otros. Queremos que nuestros hijos traten a los demás con valor, respeto y amabilidad. ¿Dónde comenzamos como padres?
2020-06-0807 min
Raising ThinkersE9: Equality, Multiculturalism and RaceWith racial tensions high in some areas of the world and protesting, we need to be able to raise thinkers who can value others. We want our children to treat others with value, respect and kindness, as they too would want to be treated. Where do we start as parents?
2020-06-0805 min
Raising ThinkersE8: Búsqueda de Tesoros!Hacer una búsqueda de tesoros no solamente es divertido, pero puede desarrollar el pensamiento en los niños también... así es! Vamos a buscar!
2020-05-2405 min
Raising ThinkersE8: Scavenger Hunt!What could be more fun that doing a scavenger hunt? Wait, and you can use your thinking skills at the same time? That's a Win/Win for sure!
2020-05-2404 minRaising ThinkersE7: Desglosando las TareasA veces necesitamos ayudar a nuestros hijos a hacer una cosa a la vez, a aprender a priorizar lo que viene primero.
2020-05-1905 minRaising ThinkersE7: Breakin' it DownSometimes we need to break things down in to manageable pieces. Help your child prioritize one piece at a time.
2020-05-1904 minRaising ThinkersE6: Puedes Diseñar un...? DesafíoPrepara a tu hijo para enfrentar la vida y los retos del futuro con desafíos creativos de diseño.
Si necesitas ayuda con ideas gratis para desafíos, puedes ir al recurso que menciono en el episodio: Sharpen Design STEM
*Sharpen es un generador de desafíos que es gratis y no tiene asociación ni conexión con este Podcast. Solamente es un recurso útil que conozco y que quiero compartir con los demás.
2020-05-1206 minRaising ThinkersE6: Can You Design A...? ChallengePrepare your child for life and frustration giving them some creative design challenges.
Need some help figuring out how to challenge them? Head over to the resource mentioned in the episode: Sharpen Design STEM for thousands of free, quick ideas!
*Sharpen is a free design challenge generator and has no association or affiliation with this podcast. I just happen to think it's an amazing resource, and I wanted to share it with you all.
2020-05-1204 minRaising ThinkersE5: A Cocinar!Es tiempo para cocinar con tu hijo! La clave es ser intencional.
2020-05-0806 minRaising ThinkersE5: Take it to the KitchenIt's time to cook together! The key is intentionality, talking through the steps and more with your child.
2020-05-0804 minRaising ThinkersE4: Dime CómoPodemos desarollar el pensamiento crítico en nuestros hijos usando la frase sencilla... dime cómo...
2020-05-0107 minRaising ThinkersE4: Tell Me HowBy simply asking your child to tell you about the process of what they did, you get them to start internalizing and thinking at a deeper level.
2020-05-0105 minRaising ThinkersE3: Desafío de Construcción (y ganas algunos minutos para ti mismo)Con unos materiales básicos en tu casa, puedes dar un reto de construcción para tus hijos y mientras que ellos están ocupados en pensara y construir, tendrás algunos minutos para ti mismo.
2020-04-2706 minRaising ThinkersE3: Build it Challenge (And Gain a Few Minutes for Yourself)Set your child up with a simple building challenge and while they're building with specific materials and a particular purpose, gain some breathing room for yourself.
2020-04-2704 minRaising ThinkersE2: Preguntas Sinécticas, Preguntas Divertidas para Alrededor de la MesaPreguntas sinécticas son algunas de mis favoritas para ayudar a los niños (o los adultos) a desarollar su pensamiento creativo. Son bien divertidas para conversación alrededor de la mesa.
2020-04-2407 minRaising ThinkersE2: Synectics Questions, A Fun Dinnertime ConversationSynectics questions are some of my favorites for developing creative, out-of-the-box thinking with kids (or adults). Generate some fun conversations around the dinner table while also developing thinking skills!
2020-04-2406 minRaising ThinkersE1: Intro y Como Hacer PreguntasBienvenidos a Criando Pensadores! En este podcast, compartiré un poco acerca de quien soy y como podemos hacer preguntas para ayudar a nuestros hijos.
2020-04-2006 minRaising ThinkersE1: Intro - Asking Good QuestionsWelcome to Raising Thinkers! In this debut podcast, I share a little bit about myself and discuss how we can ask our children effective questions.
2020-04-2004 min