TV Appearances
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Learn On 26:
When you Wonder: Bringing Forth Mister Rogers' Whole Child Education to Today We all have emotions tied and memories tied to Mister Rogers' Neighborhood. Thanks to the dynamic research and storytelling of 'When You Wonder, You're Learning', Gregg Behr and Ryan Rydzewski show parents and educators the many ways they might follow in Rogers’ footsteps, sharing his lessons with today’s kids.
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Made Local:
Gregg Behr & Ryan Rydzewski Playful and practical, When You Wonder, You're Learning introduces a new generation of families to the lessons of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood. By exploring the science behind the iconic television program, the book reveals what Fred Rogers called the “tools for learning”: skills and mindsets that scientists now consider essential.
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Print and Digital Appearances
Book Reviews
Praise for When You Wonder, You're Learning
If you learned about life from Fred Rogers’ example, the better off you are. His beloved Neighborhood was a place of curiosity and kindness, of simple joys found in a complicated, yet safe world. Each of us has a role to play in building Neighborhoods of our own. What Behr and Rydzewski have done here is bring Fred Rogers' essential humanity down to earth. That is a gift for all in the Neighborhood.
-Tom Hanks, Academy Award-winning actor and star of A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
“Fred Rogers taught that we each have something unique — a kind of inner music that only we can make. In this book, Behr and Rydzewski do for readers what Fred Rogers did in the Neighborhood: use brain science to help all of us become the best of whoever we are.”
-Goldie Hawn, Academy Award-winning actress and founder of MindUP
In an era of polarization, distrust, and despair, the resilience of children stands as a universal beacon of hope for a new, better society. Fred Rogers understood our obligation to nourish that spark of imagination, kindness, and community, and When You Wonder, You’re Learning distills how each of us can continue those efforts. Whether you are a parent, a caregiver, a teacher, or a neighbor, authors Behr and Rydzewski have penned a necessary primer on how to cultivate awe-inspiring kids capable of being more than we imagine.
-Stacey Abrams, politician, activist, and author
One of the first things people wonder about Fred Rogers is whether he could possibly be as kind and warm in person as he seemed to be on television. When they learn that he was all those things and more, their response almost always gives way to reverence—for the person who liked them exactly as they were. When You Wonder, You're Learning is an essential exploration of how Rogers designed his most remarkable, enduring gift: the Neighborhood's unconditional insistence on humanity, its dignity, and its worth.
-Morgan Neville, Academy Award-winning documentary filmmaker and director of Won't You Be My Neighbor?
Gregg and Ryan study the way Mister Rogers communicated. Somehow, when Mister Rogers talked to the TV camera, he was listening to what we all wonder about— and listening would be good for all of us, no matter what family we’re part of [or] what we do for a living. With the instant communication available today, you might think that we are more in touch with each other than ever. The authors show that’s just not the case. They also show that Mister Rogers and all the characters in his neighborhood had a way of listening that could change the world.
-Bill Nye, science educator and CEO of The Planetary Society
"A beautiful book with a beautiful message inspired by one of the most beautiful lives ever lived. Can all children grow up to be as creative, curious, and caring as Mr. Rogers? The answer is yes, and this gem of a book tells you how. The genius of Mr. Rogers distilled, affirmed, and translated into practical advice for anyone with children in their lives —which is everyone."
–Angela Duckworth, World-renowned psychologist and author of the New York Times bestseller Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance
In this book, Gregg Behr and Ryan Rydzewski have accomplished an amazing feat: they have sequenced the human creative genome. They reveal how the DNA strands of curiosity, communication, and collaboration were interwoven in the miracle of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. And how parents and educators can transmit this DNA from themselves to children who will become loving parents, confident professionals, and caring citizens. At this point in our nation’s—indeed, the world’s—history, there is nothing more important.
-Dr. Milton Chen, Executive Director Emeritus, George Lucas Educational Foundation
Recent films, biographies and tributes have attempted to capture the kindness and genius of Fred Rogers. When You Wonder, You’re Learning is a beautiful complement to all that has been written, as it looks beyond the man to peel back the curtain and reveal the science used by Fred, and others who have followed, to inspire the development of caring and empathetic children into whose hands our future rests. I cannot imagine a more important time for a book such as this.
-Paula Kerger, President and CEO, PBS
When You Wonder, You’re Learning is a compelling, beautifully written call for seeing, supporting, and loving the individual complexities of every human being, whether they’re kids or adults, our own children or a neighbor’s. Living up to the kindness and humanity that Fred Rogers embodied will never be easy, but with this essential book—full of fascinating science and moving scenes from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood—Behr and Rydzewski have given us the tools.
-Dr. Todd Rose, former director of the Mind, Brain, and Education program at Harvard University and bestselling author of The End of Average: How We Succeed in a World That Values Sameness
Building on the legacy of an incomparable humanist, Pittsburgh’s Mister Rogers, When You Wonder, You're Learning will inform you, inspire you, change how you engage with children, and flat out make you a better person. It's a brilliant, stirring exposition on the vital role of humanism in educating our children, and it strikes at issues near and dear to any teacher, parent, or policymaker. I loved every word of it.
-Ted Dintersmith, education philanthropist and author of What School Could Be: Insights and Inspiration from Teachers Across America
I’m so grateful to Gregg Behr and Ryan Rydzewski. When You Wonder, You’re Learning brings me back to the days of sitting with Fred in his office, bowled over by the depth of his philosophy, and inspired by his urgent and radical message of love. Here are two authors who get it, who have the courage to try to explain it, who demonstrate their mastery of Fred’s message in the craftsmanship of the work itself. Beautifully constructed, full of deeply researched and well-earned wisdom, When You Wonder, You’re Learning is a dazzling accomplishment that offers a much-needed wake-up call about the enduring strength of the human spirit.
-Jeanne Marie Laskas, New York Times bestselling author of Concussion and To Obama: With Love, Joy, Anger, and Hope
The enduring legacy of Fred Rogers is based on a couple of things. One, of course, is his role as the greatest American exemplar of the deep, fundamental human values by which most people aspire to live. But the other reason is the extraordinary importance of Rogers as a teacher and his approach to learning. He understood that through their curiosity and sense of wonder, children offer the purest expression of the joy of learning. And so he focused not on facts and numbers, but on the natural, joyful instinct of children to inquire and to learn. When You Wonder, You’re Learning is a timely and powerful exploration of Rogers’ approach and will quickly become an important instrument for advancing learning and Fred's legacy. Its authors, Gregg Behr and Ryan Rydzewski, have brought Fred Rogers the educator to life. We are indebted to them for adding this book to the body of Fred's teachings.
-Maxwell King, senior fellow at the Fred Rogers Center and New York Times bestselling author of The Good Neighbor: The Life and Work of Fred Rogers
“Mister Rogers built a neighborhood where all of us belong — where we each feel safe and valued, and where every human being is worthy of care and respect. As Behr and Rydzewski show, those goals remain within our reach in the world beyond Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. With Rogers’ blueprints, a more just and loving world isn’t just possible — it’s achievable.”
-Linda Darling-Hammond, president of the Learning Policy Institute and professor emeritus at the Stanford University School of Education
When You Wonder, You’re Learning is a timely gem for anyone who supports the development of children of all ages. It is at once practical yet aspirational, affirming yet instructive. Chock full of research and anecdotes, it reminds us that the uniquely human traits of curiosity, creativity, kindness, and generosity are not only essential but attainable for fulfilling work and life. The exquisite weaving in of the stories of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood will conjure a powerful memory of Mister Rogers’ calm affirmation, “I like you just the way you are.” I am in love with this book and can’t wait to give it to parents and teachers in my life!
-Karen Cator, former CEO, Digital Promise
Just when parents and educators need him most, When You Wonder, You’re Learning revives Fred Rogers. It reminds us that children thrive on love, curiosity, and a can-do attitude. Through artful prose that weaves together humanity, love, science, and history, Behr and Rydzewski navigate us beyond the loneliness, fear, and digitalization of our current world, inviting us back to the hopeful simplicity of the Neighborhood. A must-read for anyone who cares about children.
-Dr. Kathy Hirsh-Pasek, professor at Temple University and co-author of Becoming Brilliant: What Science Tells Us about Raising Successful Children
Want to be a better parent or teacher? When You Wonder, You’re Learning reveals in accessible and delightful ways how we—as grownups who care so very much about our kids’ tomorrows—might help them develop habits of mind and social awareness to handle what’s ahead. This book is spot-on; it’s a blueprint for our times.
-Rebecca Winthrop, senior fellow and co-director of the Center for Universal Education at the Brookings Institution
Gregg Behr and Ryan Rydzewski deftly blend the timeless parables from the Neighborhood of Make-Believe and personal philosophies of Fred Rogers with contemporary examples of scientists and educators who are prioritizing the foundational social and emotional skills that are essential for learning, proving there’s always been a method to the kindness.
-Paul Siefken, President and CEO, Fred Rogers Productions
“The unrelenting goodness of Mr. Rogers’ iconic television show is still felt today. Behr and Rydzewski reveal the humble wisdom of Mister Rogers in When You Wonder, You’re Learning. Through a blend of social science research, child development theory, and the life of Rogers himself, they illuminate the values of the Neighborhood. What better way to honor Rogers’ legacy than to give readers a road map for how to nurture and sustain genuine wonder in today’s children?”
-Kyle Schwartz, teacher and author of I Wish My Teacher Knew and I Wish for Change
Mister Rogers is the essential role model for all teachers and parents. He taught us to admire, inspire, and raise confident kids. Behr and Rydzewski's engrossing book is a long overdue explanation of the scientific nuts and bolts behind the Neighborhood approach.
-Jordan Shapiro, author of Father Figure and The New Childhood
“If there’s one thing you’ll get from this book by Gregg and Ryan, it’s your money’s worth. Fred Rogers’ understanding of curiosity is worth its weight in gold. To know that more closely is the greatest of gifts."
-Coy Bowles, musician, author, educator, and advocate
“This book is a gift! The authors remind us of the power of Fred Rogers’ work and its applicability to today’s world. If we all approached learning and relationships as Rogers did, our world would be a much better place.”
-Karen Garza, President and CEO, Battelle for Kids
“Mister Rogers implored us to think first about the children, and this book shows us how. Gregg and Ryan masterfully unpack the art and magic of helping kids thrive, with a book that is as readable as it is well-researched. Every person who cares about kids should be required to read this book!”
-Stephanie Malia Krauss, author of Whole Child, Whole Life: 10 Ways to Help Kids Live, Learn, and Thrive
“What would it take to construct a world that treats every child as worthy? What would it look like to live in a neighborhood that nurtures wonder and joy? More than 50 years ago, Mister Rogers showed us the way. And this book helps all of us — teachers, parents, and people who care about kids — use Rogers’ blueprints to build a better future.”
-Kaya Henderson, CEO of Reconstruction and former chancellor of DC Public Schools
“Since Mister Rogers’ passing in 2003, we’ve all been left wondering, ‘Who will fill the shoes (or sneakers) of Fred Rogers?’ But it’s that wondering itself that answers the question. As Gregg Behr and Ryan Rydzewski’s book shows, it can be any of us. Or all of us.”
-Carlos Moreno, Co-Executive Director, Big Picture Learning
“In When You Wonder, You’re Learning, Behr and Rydzewski unlock an essential secret by which Fred Rogers lived: the key to a happy and fulfilling life lies within the relationships we build and nurture. Embedded within these pages are the simple truths that Fred Rogers imparted to us every day. Read it and be transformed!”
-Deb Delisle, CEO of All4Ed and former assistant secretary for elementary and secondary education, U.S. Department of Education
“Fred Rogers was a skilled communicator who could make the complex easy for all to understand. Through his words and examples, he demonstrated the value and importance of community and culture in his neighborhood. In doing so, he was highly influential in developing the critical skills and behaviors that kids would carry with them throughout their lives. In When You Wonder, You’re Learning, Behr and Rydzewski have shown us how to emulate Fred’s message of grace and humanity in a time when America needs to hear it most. I recommend this book for every parent, grandparent, and educator.”
-Bill Daggett, Founder and Executive Chair, Successful Practices Network
“A highlight of my life as a small child was meeting Fred Rogers. A highlight of my life as a parent has been sitting down with my children to watch Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood—and re-learning its numerous, insightful lessons. Dare I say that a highlight for the world now is to have these lessons distilled and captured in Gregg and Ryan's wondrous book, When You Wonder, You’re Learning?”
-Michael B. Horn, Author of From Reopen to Reinvent: (Re)creating School for Every Child
“Throughout his life and work — whenever the world felt upside down, when fear and terror were all you could find on the news, and when tragedy and violence threatened our humanity — Fred Rogers found a way to thoughtfully, calmingly, and lovingly bring us into his television living room to look for the helpers and find a ray of hope. Isn't that what we all need, especially our children, right now? Gregg and Ryan capture the very essence of Mister Rogers and make it feel like it was just yesterday that he was here, showing us through story, song, and love how best to raise and lift up each unique child. When You Wonder, You're Learning is a compass for educators, families, and anyone with a heartbeat to help us find our way back to our North Star. A must-read for everyone who works with children.”
-David Miyashiro, Superintendent, Cajon Valley Union School District
“Chapter by chapter, Behr and Rydzewski bring Fred Rogers’ humanity and intentionality to life. They chronicle his efforts to master the science of learning to make sure that every production decision conveyed what he wanted to share about curiosity, creativity, communication, collaboration, connection and growing up. The result is a treasure. A must-read for anyone who, like me, only paid half attention to Mister Rogers, grateful that their children were wondering safely in his hands.”
-Karen Pittman, Co-Founder and former CEO, The Forum for Youth Investment and founding partner, Knowledge to Power Catalysts
“For more than a quarter century, Mister Rogers filled the world with compassion, love, and life lessons, finding ways to simplify challenging topics to make them understandable and approachable to anyone, regardless of age. At a time when today’s children are growing up in a chaotic world filled with so much noise, When You Wonder, You’re Learning is the right book for the right time. Behr and Rydzewski eloquently translate the parables that Fred Rogers iconically bestowed on the world to shine a light on how to raise today’s kids to be both successful and kind!”
-Thomas C. Murray, Director of Innovation at Future Ready Schools and bestselling author of Personal & Authentic and Learning Transformed
“From the importance of play and imagination to the value of emotional expression and community building, When You Wonder, You're Learning offers a wealth of practical tools and insights for parents, caregivers, and educators who want to nurture the full potential of the children in their lives. Whether you're a lifelong fan of Mister Rogers or discovering his teachings for the first time, this inspiring and accessible book is a must-read for anyone who cares about the well-being and flourishing of children.”
-Katie Martin, Co-Founder and Chief Impact Officer of Learner-Centered Collaborative and author of Learner-Centered Innovation and Evolving Education
“When You Wonder, You're Learning is a powerful reminder that education is not just about memorization and compliance, but about inspiring students to ask questions, explore their interests, and make meaningful connections to the world around them. I recommend the book to educators, parents, and policymakers who are committed to creating a more innovative and learner-centered education system. By working together, we can ensure that every learner is engaged in joyful and lifelong learning, ultimately leading to an improvement in the lives of individuals, communities, and society as a whole.”
-Devin Vodicka, CEO of Learner-Centered Collaborative, former superintendent of Vista Unified School District, and author of Learner-Centered Leadership
-Tom Hanks, Academy Award-winning actor and star of A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
“Fred Rogers taught that we each have something unique — a kind of inner music that only we can make. In this book, Behr and Rydzewski do for readers what Fred Rogers did in the Neighborhood: use brain science to help all of us become the best of whoever we are.”
-Goldie Hawn, Academy Award-winning actress and founder of MindUP
In an era of polarization, distrust, and despair, the resilience of children stands as a universal beacon of hope for a new, better society. Fred Rogers understood our obligation to nourish that spark of imagination, kindness, and community, and When You Wonder, You’re Learning distills how each of us can continue those efforts. Whether you are a parent, a caregiver, a teacher, or a neighbor, authors Behr and Rydzewski have penned a necessary primer on how to cultivate awe-inspiring kids capable of being more than we imagine.
-Stacey Abrams, politician, activist, and author
One of the first things people wonder about Fred Rogers is whether he could possibly be as kind and warm in person as he seemed to be on television. When they learn that he was all those things and more, their response almost always gives way to reverence—for the person who liked them exactly as they were. When You Wonder, You're Learning is an essential exploration of how Rogers designed his most remarkable, enduring gift: the Neighborhood's unconditional insistence on humanity, its dignity, and its worth.
-Morgan Neville, Academy Award-winning documentary filmmaker and director of Won't You Be My Neighbor?
Gregg and Ryan study the way Mister Rogers communicated. Somehow, when Mister Rogers talked to the TV camera, he was listening to what we all wonder about— and listening would be good for all of us, no matter what family we’re part of [or] what we do for a living. With the instant communication available today, you might think that we are more in touch with each other than ever. The authors show that’s just not the case. They also show that Mister Rogers and all the characters in his neighborhood had a way of listening that could change the world.
-Bill Nye, science educator and CEO of The Planetary Society
"A beautiful book with a beautiful message inspired by one of the most beautiful lives ever lived. Can all children grow up to be as creative, curious, and caring as Mr. Rogers? The answer is yes, and this gem of a book tells you how. The genius of Mr. Rogers distilled, affirmed, and translated into practical advice for anyone with children in their lives —which is everyone."
–Angela Duckworth, World-renowned psychologist and author of the New York Times bestseller Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance
In this book, Gregg Behr and Ryan Rydzewski have accomplished an amazing feat: they have sequenced the human creative genome. They reveal how the DNA strands of curiosity, communication, and collaboration were interwoven in the miracle of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. And how parents and educators can transmit this DNA from themselves to children who will become loving parents, confident professionals, and caring citizens. At this point in our nation’s—indeed, the world’s—history, there is nothing more important.
-Dr. Milton Chen, Executive Director Emeritus, George Lucas Educational Foundation
Recent films, biographies and tributes have attempted to capture the kindness and genius of Fred Rogers. When You Wonder, You’re Learning is a beautiful complement to all that has been written, as it looks beyond the man to peel back the curtain and reveal the science used by Fred, and others who have followed, to inspire the development of caring and empathetic children into whose hands our future rests. I cannot imagine a more important time for a book such as this.
-Paula Kerger, President and CEO, PBS
When You Wonder, You’re Learning is a compelling, beautifully written call for seeing, supporting, and loving the individual complexities of every human being, whether they’re kids or adults, our own children or a neighbor’s. Living up to the kindness and humanity that Fred Rogers embodied will never be easy, but with this essential book—full of fascinating science and moving scenes from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood—Behr and Rydzewski have given us the tools.
-Dr. Todd Rose, former director of the Mind, Brain, and Education program at Harvard University and bestselling author of The End of Average: How We Succeed in a World That Values Sameness
Building on the legacy of an incomparable humanist, Pittsburgh’s Mister Rogers, When You Wonder, You're Learning will inform you, inspire you, change how you engage with children, and flat out make you a better person. It's a brilliant, stirring exposition on the vital role of humanism in educating our children, and it strikes at issues near and dear to any teacher, parent, or policymaker. I loved every word of it.
-Ted Dintersmith, education philanthropist and author of What School Could Be: Insights and Inspiration from Teachers Across America
I’m so grateful to Gregg Behr and Ryan Rydzewski. When You Wonder, You’re Learning brings me back to the days of sitting with Fred in his office, bowled over by the depth of his philosophy, and inspired by his urgent and radical message of love. Here are two authors who get it, who have the courage to try to explain it, who demonstrate their mastery of Fred’s message in the craftsmanship of the work itself. Beautifully constructed, full of deeply researched and well-earned wisdom, When You Wonder, You’re Learning is a dazzling accomplishment that offers a much-needed wake-up call about the enduring strength of the human spirit.
-Jeanne Marie Laskas, New York Times bestselling author of Concussion and To Obama: With Love, Joy, Anger, and Hope
The enduring legacy of Fred Rogers is based on a couple of things. One, of course, is his role as the greatest American exemplar of the deep, fundamental human values by which most people aspire to live. But the other reason is the extraordinary importance of Rogers as a teacher and his approach to learning. He understood that through their curiosity and sense of wonder, children offer the purest expression of the joy of learning. And so he focused not on facts and numbers, but on the natural, joyful instinct of children to inquire and to learn. When You Wonder, You’re Learning is a timely and powerful exploration of Rogers’ approach and will quickly become an important instrument for advancing learning and Fred's legacy. Its authors, Gregg Behr and Ryan Rydzewski, have brought Fred Rogers the educator to life. We are indebted to them for adding this book to the body of Fred's teachings.
-Maxwell King, senior fellow at the Fred Rogers Center and New York Times bestselling author of The Good Neighbor: The Life and Work of Fred Rogers
“Mister Rogers built a neighborhood where all of us belong — where we each feel safe and valued, and where every human being is worthy of care and respect. As Behr and Rydzewski show, those goals remain within our reach in the world beyond Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. With Rogers’ blueprints, a more just and loving world isn’t just possible — it’s achievable.”
-Linda Darling-Hammond, president of the Learning Policy Institute and professor emeritus at the Stanford University School of Education
When You Wonder, You’re Learning is a timely gem for anyone who supports the development of children of all ages. It is at once practical yet aspirational, affirming yet instructive. Chock full of research and anecdotes, it reminds us that the uniquely human traits of curiosity, creativity, kindness, and generosity are not only essential but attainable for fulfilling work and life. The exquisite weaving in of the stories of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood will conjure a powerful memory of Mister Rogers’ calm affirmation, “I like you just the way you are.” I am in love with this book and can’t wait to give it to parents and teachers in my life!
-Karen Cator, former CEO, Digital Promise
Just when parents and educators need him most, When You Wonder, You’re Learning revives Fred Rogers. It reminds us that children thrive on love, curiosity, and a can-do attitude. Through artful prose that weaves together humanity, love, science, and history, Behr and Rydzewski navigate us beyond the loneliness, fear, and digitalization of our current world, inviting us back to the hopeful simplicity of the Neighborhood. A must-read for anyone who cares about children.
-Dr. Kathy Hirsh-Pasek, professor at Temple University and co-author of Becoming Brilliant: What Science Tells Us about Raising Successful Children
Want to be a better parent or teacher? When You Wonder, You’re Learning reveals in accessible and delightful ways how we—as grownups who care so very much about our kids’ tomorrows—might help them develop habits of mind and social awareness to handle what’s ahead. This book is spot-on; it’s a blueprint for our times.
-Rebecca Winthrop, senior fellow and co-director of the Center for Universal Education at the Brookings Institution
Gregg Behr and Ryan Rydzewski deftly blend the timeless parables from the Neighborhood of Make-Believe and personal philosophies of Fred Rogers with contemporary examples of scientists and educators who are prioritizing the foundational social and emotional skills that are essential for learning, proving there’s always been a method to the kindness.
-Paul Siefken, President and CEO, Fred Rogers Productions
“The unrelenting goodness of Mr. Rogers’ iconic television show is still felt today. Behr and Rydzewski reveal the humble wisdom of Mister Rogers in When You Wonder, You’re Learning. Through a blend of social science research, child development theory, and the life of Rogers himself, they illuminate the values of the Neighborhood. What better way to honor Rogers’ legacy than to give readers a road map for how to nurture and sustain genuine wonder in today’s children?”
-Kyle Schwartz, teacher and author of I Wish My Teacher Knew and I Wish for Change
Mister Rogers is the essential role model for all teachers and parents. He taught us to admire, inspire, and raise confident kids. Behr and Rydzewski's engrossing book is a long overdue explanation of the scientific nuts and bolts behind the Neighborhood approach.
-Jordan Shapiro, author of Father Figure and The New Childhood
“If there’s one thing you’ll get from this book by Gregg and Ryan, it’s your money’s worth. Fred Rogers’ understanding of curiosity is worth its weight in gold. To know that more closely is the greatest of gifts."
-Coy Bowles, musician, author, educator, and advocate
“This book is a gift! The authors remind us of the power of Fred Rogers’ work and its applicability to today’s world. If we all approached learning and relationships as Rogers did, our world would be a much better place.”
-Karen Garza, President and CEO, Battelle for Kids
“Mister Rogers implored us to think first about the children, and this book shows us how. Gregg and Ryan masterfully unpack the art and magic of helping kids thrive, with a book that is as readable as it is well-researched. Every person who cares about kids should be required to read this book!”
-Stephanie Malia Krauss, author of Whole Child, Whole Life: 10 Ways to Help Kids Live, Learn, and Thrive
“What would it take to construct a world that treats every child as worthy? What would it look like to live in a neighborhood that nurtures wonder and joy? More than 50 years ago, Mister Rogers showed us the way. And this book helps all of us — teachers, parents, and people who care about kids — use Rogers’ blueprints to build a better future.”
-Kaya Henderson, CEO of Reconstruction and former chancellor of DC Public Schools
“Since Mister Rogers’ passing in 2003, we’ve all been left wondering, ‘Who will fill the shoes (or sneakers) of Fred Rogers?’ But it’s that wondering itself that answers the question. As Gregg Behr and Ryan Rydzewski’s book shows, it can be any of us. Or all of us.”
-Carlos Moreno, Co-Executive Director, Big Picture Learning
“In When You Wonder, You’re Learning, Behr and Rydzewski unlock an essential secret by which Fred Rogers lived: the key to a happy and fulfilling life lies within the relationships we build and nurture. Embedded within these pages are the simple truths that Fred Rogers imparted to us every day. Read it and be transformed!”
-Deb Delisle, CEO of All4Ed and former assistant secretary for elementary and secondary education, U.S. Department of Education
“Fred Rogers was a skilled communicator who could make the complex easy for all to understand. Through his words and examples, he demonstrated the value and importance of community and culture in his neighborhood. In doing so, he was highly influential in developing the critical skills and behaviors that kids would carry with them throughout their lives. In When You Wonder, You’re Learning, Behr and Rydzewski have shown us how to emulate Fred’s message of grace and humanity in a time when America needs to hear it most. I recommend this book for every parent, grandparent, and educator.”
-Bill Daggett, Founder and Executive Chair, Successful Practices Network
“A highlight of my life as a small child was meeting Fred Rogers. A highlight of my life as a parent has been sitting down with my children to watch Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood—and re-learning its numerous, insightful lessons. Dare I say that a highlight for the world now is to have these lessons distilled and captured in Gregg and Ryan's wondrous book, When You Wonder, You’re Learning?”
-Michael B. Horn, Author of From Reopen to Reinvent: (Re)creating School for Every Child
“Throughout his life and work — whenever the world felt upside down, when fear and terror were all you could find on the news, and when tragedy and violence threatened our humanity — Fred Rogers found a way to thoughtfully, calmingly, and lovingly bring us into his television living room to look for the helpers and find a ray of hope. Isn't that what we all need, especially our children, right now? Gregg and Ryan capture the very essence of Mister Rogers and make it feel like it was just yesterday that he was here, showing us through story, song, and love how best to raise and lift up each unique child. When You Wonder, You're Learning is a compass for educators, families, and anyone with a heartbeat to help us find our way back to our North Star. A must-read for everyone who works with children.”
-David Miyashiro, Superintendent, Cajon Valley Union School District
“Chapter by chapter, Behr and Rydzewski bring Fred Rogers’ humanity and intentionality to life. They chronicle his efforts to master the science of learning to make sure that every production decision conveyed what he wanted to share about curiosity, creativity, communication, collaboration, connection and growing up. The result is a treasure. A must-read for anyone who, like me, only paid half attention to Mister Rogers, grateful that their children were wondering safely in his hands.”
-Karen Pittman, Co-Founder and former CEO, The Forum for Youth Investment and founding partner, Knowledge to Power Catalysts
“For more than a quarter century, Mister Rogers filled the world with compassion, love, and life lessons, finding ways to simplify challenging topics to make them understandable and approachable to anyone, regardless of age. At a time when today’s children are growing up in a chaotic world filled with so much noise, When You Wonder, You’re Learning is the right book for the right time. Behr and Rydzewski eloquently translate the parables that Fred Rogers iconically bestowed on the world to shine a light on how to raise today’s kids to be both successful and kind!”
-Thomas C. Murray, Director of Innovation at Future Ready Schools and bestselling author of Personal & Authentic and Learning Transformed
“From the importance of play and imagination to the value of emotional expression and community building, When You Wonder, You're Learning offers a wealth of practical tools and insights for parents, caregivers, and educators who want to nurture the full potential of the children in their lives. Whether you're a lifelong fan of Mister Rogers or discovering his teachings for the first time, this inspiring and accessible book is a must-read for anyone who cares about the well-being and flourishing of children.”
-Katie Martin, Co-Founder and Chief Impact Officer of Learner-Centered Collaborative and author of Learner-Centered Innovation and Evolving Education
“When You Wonder, You're Learning is a powerful reminder that education is not just about memorization and compliance, but about inspiring students to ask questions, explore their interests, and make meaningful connections to the world around them. I recommend the book to educators, parents, and policymakers who are committed to creating a more innovative and learner-centered education system. By working together, we can ensure that every learner is engaged in joyful and lifelong learning, ultimately leading to an improvement in the lives of individuals, communities, and society as a whole.”
-Devin Vodicka, CEO of Learner-Centered Collaborative, former superintendent of Vista Unified School District, and author of Learner-Centered Leadership
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