Reading to connect: The BOND routine for meaningful language and emotional interaction

Reading to connect: The BOND routine for meaningful language and emotional interaction Picture books can develop language while creating space for meaningful interaction, emotional vocabulary, and personal connection. This practical workshop introduces BOND, a research-informed shared-reading framework developed by the presenter: Begin with presence, Observe and name, Notice connections, and Decide and do. Participants will experience the routine through a picture-book example, respond through chat, and create an open-ended question and simple extension activity. The session shows how BOND supports speaking, listening, and reflection without turning storytime into a comprehension test. Participants leave with an adaptable framework for learners aged 3–8 in English, bilingual, and multilingual classrooms. Speaker: Susana Heisecke Susana Heisecke is a bilingual educator, instructional coach, and family-education facilitator from Paraguay with more than 20 years of experience supporting children, teachers, and families. As founder of AprendeD+, a personal educational initiative, she develops practical resources and professional learning connecting literacy, emotional development, meaningful interaction, and stronger school–family relationships.