In this special episode of the "Reading with Your Kids" podcast, host Jed Doherty sits down with Tim Cunningham, the Interim Executive Director of Clowns Without Borders, to discuss the organization's mission of bringing laughter and joy to children and families experiencing adversity around the world. Cunningham explains how Clowns Without Borders sends professional performers - including clowns, actors, acrobats, and magicians - to war-torn regions, refugee camps, and areas impacted by natural disasters to provide a much-needed respite for children. He emphasizes the importance of allowing children to simply be kids, even in the midst of profound hardship. Doherty and Cunningham explore the challenges and impact of this work, highlighting research that shows the healing power of laughter and play. The conversation delves into the organization's efforts to bring clowning back home to the United States, focusing on vulnerable communities in cities like New York, Boston, and Chicago. Cunningham stresses the need to address the root causes of forced migration and provide laughter as a form of relief. Doherty underscores the positive impact of clowning on children, allowing them to experience joy and simply be kids. The episode also features an interview with author Katie Lockwood, who shares the inspiration behind her children's book "Everyone's Invited" and its focus on representing different disabilities. Lockwood discusses the importance of inclusive representation, the need for more disability-focused children's books, and her upcoming projects that aim to celebrate diversity and spread awareness. Throughout the episode, listeners are encouraged to support the work of Clowns Without Borders and Katie Lockwood's mission through donations and volunteering. The discussion emphasizes the power of laughter, play, and representation in fostering empathy, understanding, and healing for children and families facing adversity.

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