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September 17, 2025 32 mins

EP 5: Play & Learn: Literacy Through Everyday Activities 

In this engaging episode of Literacy Launchpad: Read, Learn, Grow, host Jose Miguel Longo welcomes Dr. Jaclyn Sisskind, a pediatrician and assistant professor of pediatrics, to discuss the vital role of play in developing literacy skills in young children. Dr. Sisskind shares her passion for integrating literacy into everyday activities, emphasizing that learning can be both fun and effective.

 

Listeners will discover practical strategies for encouraging literacy through play, from using books as tools for developmental screening in pediatric visits to creative ways to engage children during daily tasks. Dr. Sisskind highlights the significance of fostering a love of reading and the importance of caregiver involvement in this journey.

 

Throughout the episode, she offers invaluable insights on how to make reading a natural part of life, whether it’s through scavenger hunts for books or narrating everyday activities like washing dishes. Parents will learn that literacy doesn’t have to be a chore; it can be woven seamlessly into the fabric of family life.

 

Join us for a lively conversation filled with golden nuggets of wisdom that will inspire parents, caregivers, and educators to embrace the joy of learning with their children. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their child's literacy experience through play!

 

00:00 Literacy Launchpad is a podcast dedicated to helping parents and children learn

01:26 Today's episode is focused on play and learn literacy through everyday activity

02:57 You mentioned that you're a doctor of pediatrics and also in the field of teaching

06:06 Pediatrics doctor encourages parents to engage in play and learn with their kids

09:15 You talked about what parents should expect when they come to your office

13:54 What are ways parents can encourage their children in creatively fostering literacy

20:45 There's a fine line between screen time and creative learning for kids

22:41 How can play be used to strengthen fine motor skills and their connection to writing

26:26 The most important thing is that you're showing up, Dr. Sisskind says

31:28 We hope today's discussion has provided you with valuable insight on engaging young learners

About our Guest: Dr. Jaclyn Sisskind

Dr. Sisskind is a pediatrician with a passion for reading and using books as a way to communicate with patients. She direct our site's Reach Out and Read program, as well as an initiative to give books to older patients at their annual visits. She has been published in the School Library Journal and A Novel Mind discussing the importance of access to all books for all kids, and head a book club, PediaLit, for pediatric providers to read young people's literature.

You Can Connect with her: Instagram: @readiatrician X (Twitter): @readiatrician Website: www.readiatrician.com

Thank you for tuning in! Remember to subscribe and share this episode with anyone who can benefit from the knowledge and resources discussed. Together, let's continue to read, learn, and grow!

Connect with Us:

Facebook: Literacy Coalition of Onondaga County & Literacy Launchpad Facebook Page

Instagram: @literacy_launchpad_podcast

Website: onliteracy.org

 

This podcast is sponsored by the Literacy Coalition of Onondaga County.

#literacy #LiteracyLaunchpad #read #learn #grow #syracuse #CNY #onondagacounty #literacycoalition #podcast #education #children #adults #parents #caregivers

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