ClassX Video Lessons Grade Grade 2 National Reading Month Chat: Caroline Hu Flexer and Kristi Yamaguchi
Welcome to a fun and exciting article about a special talk with Kristi Yamaguchi, an Olympic gold medalist, author, and philanthropist. Kristi joined Caroline Hu Flexer, the CEO of Khan Academy Kids, to celebrate National Reading Month. Khan Academy Kids is a mobile app that helps children aged 2 to 8 learn about reading, math, and social skills.
Kristi Yamaguchi is not only famous for winning a gold medal in figure skating at the Olympics, but she is also an author of children’s books and the founder of a non-profit organization called Always Dream. Her organization helps kids from low-income families get access to great books.
Kristi shared her favorite memories from the 1992 Winter Olympics. She loved marching in the opening ceremonies with athletes from all over the world. Wearing the Team USA uniform and representing her country was a proud moment for her. Even though the competition was tough, Kristi was well-prepared and focused on doing her best.
Kristi learned many important lessons from figure skating, like working hard and following her dreams. She encourages kids to use their imagination and set goals, just like she did. These lessons help her in her work with children and in raising her own kids.
Kristi’s passion for helping kids read started when she became a mom. She noticed how much her daughters loved books and wanted to help other kids have the same experience. Her organization, Always Dream, focuses on early childhood literacy, especially for kids in need.
Always Dream has a program called Always Reading, which gives kids in need access to tablets with e-books. They also support families with tips and reminders to encourage reading at home. This helps create a strong reading environment for kids.
Kristi has written three children’s books. “Dream Big, Little Pig” is about a pig named Poppy who learns to ice skate and never gives up on her dreams. “It’s a Big World, Little Pig” and “Cara’s Kindness” also have positive messages about persistence and kindness.
Kristi shared tips for getting kids interested in reading. She suggests letting kids choose their own books and making reading fun. Even if kids want to read the same book over and over, it’s a good thing because it helps them learn.
Kristi was inspired to skate after watching an ice show as a child. Her mom promised to take her skating once she learned to read, which motivated Kristi to start reading. She loved the freedom and excitement of skating from the very first time she tried it.
Kristi faced many challenges in her skating career, but she learned to be mentally tough. Her coach helped her prepare for competitions by creating a practice environment that mimicked the pressure of real events.
Kristi was one of the first Asian American figure skaters to represent the U.S. at the Olympics. She didn’t realize the impact at the time, but later understood how much it meant to the Asian American community.
Kristi Yamaguchi’s story is inspiring, showing us the power of dreams, hard work, and the importance of reading. Her work with Always Dream continues to make a difference in the lives of many children.
Book Exploration Adventure: Just like Kristi Yamaguchi loves reading, let’s go on a book exploration adventure! Visit your local library or a bookstore with a parent or guardian. Choose a book that looks interesting to you. After reading it, draw a picture of your favorite part of the story and share it with your family or friends. What did you like most about the book? Why did you choose it?
Dream Big Activity: Kristi encourages kids to dream big and set goals. Think about something you really want to learn or do. It could be learning to ride a bike, drawing a picture, or even baking cookies. Write down your dream and draw a picture of yourself achieving it. What steps will you take to make your dream come true? Share your dream with someone and ask them about their dreams too!
Reading and Skating Connection: Kristi was inspired to skate after learning to read. Think about something you love to do, like playing a sport, drawing, or playing an instrument. How can reading help you get better at it? For example, you might read a book about soccer to learn new tricks or a story about a famous artist to get inspired. Share your thoughts with a friend or family member and ask them how reading helps them with their hobbies.
