I Can Make A Difference With My Stories

About this episode

In an exciting episode of Reading with Your Kids, filmmaker Morgan Stevenson Cooper shares a powerful message about children's creativity and empowerment through his debut picture book, "I Can Make a Movie". This inspiring conversation explores how modern technology and storytelling can transform young minds.

Cooper's book follows Nora Rose, a young girl making her first film with her brother and cousins, highlighting the incredible opportunity children now have to create movies using devices in their pockets. Beyond just filmmaking, the book teaches critical life skills like decision-making, problem-solving, and creative thinking.

In a world where children are constantly bombarded with advertisements and influencer content, Cooper emphasizes the importance of encouraging kids to think independently. His book serves as a gentle reminder that children can be active creators, not just consumers. By showing young Nora making deliberate choices about shots, wardrobe, and storytelling, the book inspires children to trust their instincts and believe in themselves.

The conversation also tackles timely topics like artificial intelligence's impact on creativity. Cooper believes that human-made art will always have a unique texture and spirit that AI cannot replicate. He's passionate about directing creative output towards inspiring the next generation, hoping that artists will increasingly focus on creating meaningful content for children.

Parents and educators will find Cooper's approach refreshing. He sees storytelling as more than entertainment—it's a tool for empowerment. By giving children the confidence to tell their own stories, we're helping them develop critical life skills and autonomy. We also sit down with Blair Williamson who shares her passion for ocean conservation through two delightful children's books: "Birthday Bash" and "The Ocean Protectors". Drawing from her background as a scuba diving instructor and boat captain, Williamson crafts stories that not only entertain but also educate children about environmental challenges. "Birthday Bash" follows Kiko, a mouse on a houseboat dealing with a chaotic bug, while "The Ocean Protectors" introduces young readers to the critical issue of coral reef bleaching through the eyes of two sisters determined to make a difference.

Williamson's approach to environmental storytelling is both gentle and empowering, focusing on hope and actionable steps children can take to protect our planet. From discussing the dangers of plastic bags to highlighting the importance of reef-safe sunscreen, her books encourage young readers to become environmental advocates. With upcoming projects including a marine archaeology book and a young adult novel about life as a yachty, Williamson continues to use her unique experiences and storytelling skills to inspire the next generation of ocean protectors and creative thinkers.