Helping Every Child Feel Seen: Story-Powered Tools for Building Belonging in Classrooms and Afterschool Spaces
Wednesday, March 4, 2026 12:00 PM ET - 1:00 PM ET

Every student deserves to feel seen.

When learning is rooted in story, imagination, and meaningful moments, we create space for children to express themselves, build emotional awareness, and experience the power of belonging.

At a time when many young people feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unheard, story offers a powerful way to restore emotional safety and connection. It helps children make sense of their feelings, see themselves reflected in others, and understand that they are valued and matter.

Join award-winning author and podcast host John R. Miles and AB Studios President Brian Heaton for an uplifting, story-driven conversation on how intentional storytelling helps young learners feel valued, heard, and deeply connected.

In this behind-the-scenes session, you’ll explore:

  • Why belonging is one of the strongest foundations for confidence and emotional growth
  • How characters, story arcs, and small moments help children build self-awareness and empathy
  • What today’s students need most and how adults can show up with purpose
  • How AB Studios partnered with John Miles to bring You Matter, Luma to life through an animated course and story-powered learning experience for schools and afterschool programs

Whether you’re an educator, afterschool leader, or parent, you’ll leave with practical tools, simple story-powered strategies, and a renewed understanding of how your presence can create ripples that truly matter.

Featured Presenters

John R. Miles

John R. Miles is the founder of Passion Struck® and host of the #1-ranked Passion Struck Podcast, where he explores purpose, resilience, and meaningful living with millions of listeners worldwide. He is also the author of You Matter, Luma, a story-driven book created to help young children build self-worth, courage, and kindness. Through story, imagination, and small acts of kindness, John’s work helps children understand their emotions and see how even the smallest actions can create meaningful ripples.

Brian Heaton

Brian has lent his talents to education since his first career as a kindergarten teacher nearly 18 years ago, working to deliver a quality, immersive education for growing young minds. Add to that his talent with design and photography, as well as a deep understanding of technology, and it didn’t take Brian long to make his way to Kaplan Early Learning, then eventually AlphaBEST as the Chief Operating Officer. Today, as President of AB Studios, he brings that same passion and innovation to reimagining enrichment through dynamic, story-driven learning experiences that inspire students and empower educators.